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.

The Soft Pack released their self-titled debut LP on February 2 after a handful of singles and a lot of buzz.