DEICHKIND (DE) has in the course of four albums refined a twisted and unpretentious mix of North-German hip hop, techno and kitsch electro pop. They are famous or notorious for some extremely energetic live shows with rubber boats, confetti canons and inflatable figures.

DUNGEN (S) delves into 60s and 70s evergreen rock. Long jam passages, tambourines, handclaps and flutes are all integral parts when you go on an acid trip with this internationally cherished band.

GET WELL SOON (DE) writes heartrending songs with motley instrumentation and numerous minor chords that sound like a meeting between Beirut, Radiohead and Tom Waits. Front man Konstantin Gropper's music rings with a note of seriousness and wisdom that contradicts his relatively young age.

THE SOFT PACK (US) plays tightly controlled post-punk with a skewness, monotony and coolness that would make both Lou Reed, Iggy Pop and Mark E. Smith nod in approval. Simple, unpolished songs delivered with the same devilish energy and shrug of the shoulders.

MARNIE STERN (US) masters her electric guitar like a female version of Yngwie Malmsteen. But instead of playing epic heavy metal, she uses her skills to play edged, hyperactive and much charming indie rock full of finger tapping and skewed time signatures.