This week is heavy on newcomers, but the No. 1 spot goes to a veteran indie rock group — one which spent its fair share slugging it out in the industry’s little leagues. Theirs was an inspiring story of turmoil, disillusionment, and eventual triumph. It’s not far-fetched to think that many of the rookies featured in this week’s countdown are at the beginning of a similar musical journey, trudging along and fighting to be heard.
10. Jon Autry – “I Know”
Brooklyn-based songwriter Jon Autry records in his bedroom-turned-studio, where he plays the conductor and orchestra, creating sweeping musical statements all by himself. His forthcoming LP, Beautifully Broken (out June 24th via Usonian), sees him diving into an atmospheric pop sound that’s equally brooding and catchy. The churning guitars and layered vocal harmonies of lead single “I Know” recall ’90s guitar pop bands like The Posies and Nada Surf, with hazy production, forlorn lyrics, and a sense of bittersweet yearning. –Jon Hadusek
