Year in Review: 2008, the best artists you never heard

December 20, 10:31 AMBlues ExaminerElizabeth Punke

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With the year beginning to wrap up, we are all looking towards those impressive persons and their attributes throughout the past months. Those lyrics, beats and unforgettable faces that made 2008 what it was. I personally enjoy music from artists that are lesser kknown and can not be found on every magazine cover and playlist archive. More often than not, I come across bands and solo acts that stand out and reserve the right to call themselves musicians. These are the ones that made a hit for the underground and kept on jiving.

Anberlin, right, being a favorite of mine, is probably more likely to have been noticed in 2008 than any other artist I list. They have a sweet sound that can resemble the british wave of indie music, while still keeping a strong alt/rock persona. Out of Canada, Anberlin has found their way into the eyes of music lovers alike. With the ability to please numerous fans, and enlighten many different subgenres, Anberlin is my top pick for 2008's best unknown artist.

Traveling away from the post grunge/emo sub culture, I venture into acoustic folk satire with a knowledge of great lyrics. Bayside brought me in with their simple, yet honing Winter song, and kept me onboard until the end. I admire their ability to not only produce a lasting harmony that stays within you for hours, but also their clever use of words and ryhms. Another classic mesh of left over boy bands meets One Republic, this group definitely can play their own instruments and incorporate feeling without hesitation.

After hearing these harmonious blends and heartfelt sonnets, I left on a search for a little more metal. With The Juliana Theory, a music lover can instantly find something to enjoy. With stronger beats, more guitar and drum emphasis and those once again meaningful lines, these guys know how to gather a following. Influenced by the indie/alternative scene, The Juliana Theory gives new weight to the emo vs. indie challenge. Gaining fans from each genre, this band is sure to gather more attention in the years to come.

With my final choice for the year's best artists you have never heard of, I left the U.S. and went back to Canada. With Broken Social Scene being a subtle rendition of Six Pence None The Richer and Sonic Youth, the melodies and lyrics bring me back to the best music I love. The indie underground scene has been a launching platform for these types of artists for many, many years. And Broken Social Scene will be no exception. A great track is their Stars and Sons, giving listeners a good reason to want to hear more.

With these artists soon to climb the ladder in the world of The Killers, The Fray and The Strokes, we will all hear their tunes and appreciate their musical talents. I wish the best New Year to everyone here, and those reading along. May good music find you, and if not, never stop searching!