Five albums into his stunning solo career, Brooklyn-based acoustic artist Clarence Greenwood, known to the public as Citizen Cope, has once again charmed the independent music world with his newest release, "The Rainwater LP."

One of the most explosive forces in the indie rock community in the last few years, Wild Beasts have inspired everything from critical praise to interpretive dance troupe covers. The UK four-piece mix shoegaze traditions with glammy theatrics to tell their stories.

Laura Veirs released her self-titled, self-released debut in 1999 and in January 2010, she released her latest project, "July Flame" on her Raven Marching band label.

Alec Ounsworth is best known for his work with the band, Clap Your Hands Say Yeah. To date, the band has released two self-distributed, full-length studio albums: "Clap Your Hands Say Yeah" and "Some Loud Thunder", as well as the internet-only live album release of "Live at Lollapalooza 2007: Clap Your Hands Say Yeah".

Bill Caperton and Mike Gunnerson, both formerly of Ela, spent 10 days in a northwoods cabin writing and recording music.

Joshua Carter and Sarah Barthel of Phantogram have known each other since junior high school but didn't become a band until 2007. After the duo honed their unique sound--slow-burning indie rock decorated with heavy, eerie electronics--they quickly earned the attention of independent labels.

After two decades of success in Low and a fantastic debut album from side-project Retribution Gospel Choir, Alan Sparhawk has returned with RGC's second LP, appropriately titled "2," out on Sub Pop Records.

Fresh off the success of their debut record, "North Hills," Los Angeles natives Dawes have gotten the chance to expand their Laurel Canyon sound on a national tour.

Originally from Madison, Wisconsin, Kyle "Guante" has been making noise in the Minneapolis hip-hop and spoken word scenes for the past few years. Guante is a performer, slam poetry workshop facilitator and spoken word champion.

Caroline Smith and the Goodnight Sleeps released their debut album, "Backyard Tent Set" in 2008. After being named one of the best new bands that year, the group has slowly built a local following among indie folk fans.