10 Artists to Watch In 2011

   2010 was another great year in music and 2011 proves to be equally as exciting, and with so much music to look forward to, we've decided to look at ten artists worth watching in the new year. Whether they are new or familiar faces they all look to make 2011 a year worth remembering. 

10. First Rate People  Myspace

  First Rate People aren't exactly creating phenomenal buzz, but that's not to say they haven't already earned enough praise and proven themselves to earn a place as one of 2011's Artists to Watch. 

 The Toronto based outfit started 2010 with praise from Pitchfork, with their first single 'Girls' Night' a bouncy alt slice of '90s R&B, that's pure infatuation and highly addictive. 

 The band followed up their impressive first single with a self-release debut EP, It's Never Not Happening, and their second single, 'Gentlemen's Club' featuring Luke LaLonde of Born Ruffians on backing vocals. That was 2010, so why are they worth watching in 2011? 

   There's no word on what's next for the young Toronto band but if First Rate People manage to produce even one song like the aforementioned singles, full of optimism, relaxed beats and continue to channel a healthy dose of '90s R&B, alt rock and pop elements circa the Tom Tom Club it will be well worth the wait. 


   Gentlemen's Club (feat. Luke LaLonde & GenerationFK) by First Rate People by Shattered Vinyl

Record Review: Katie Costello

Katie Costello - The City In Me EP 3.5/5

Myspace

In just five songs Katie Costello introduces herself in a kaleidoscope of poetic lyrics and enchanting vocals that leave an impression. 'Cityscapes' is a quirky, piano driven pop song that shimmers with energy that echoes Nellie McKay. 'How Do We Know' showcases Costello's soaring vocals, while the folk-tinged 'We Are The Way We Are' adds to the range of her sound.

Though Katie sings of isolation and disconnect on the ballad 'Ships In The Night' her emotionally charged vocals make her ever present dripping with sorrow. Costello crafts songs that manage to walk a tight rope between dark, deeply personal and sugary optimism. Katie Costello's warm vocals and colourful lyrics are if nothing else a cut above many of her peers.