18 artists to watch in 2018

January 2, 2018

[Photos by: Pale Waves/Danny North, IDKHBTFM/Mallory Turner, The Last Gang/Billy Beans Kingrock Photo]

This year will be a crucial period for many acts, both mega and obscure, but it all boils down to the possibility that this might be a great year for music across the board. Take a look and take notes—you don’t want to sleep on any of these bands.

I Don’t Know How But They Found Me (alt/indie)

What happens when you have the former Panic! At The Disco bassist and ex-Falling In Reverse drummer join forces? You get a very ‘80s glam-rock band. (Bet you weren’t expecting that response.) Dallon Weekes and Ryan Seaman not only sound the part, they look it, too—donning shimmering jackets, long hair and just enough makeup. The duo have only released two tracks—”Choke” and “Modern Day Cain”—but they’ve already managed to garner nearly 20K followers on Spotify, and their fans are eagerly awaiting more. Keep an eye on this band, that’ll, without a doubt, win you over with catchy hooks and a beat that’ll get you dancing around the room. —Kristine Cannon

Vesperteen (electro-pop/alt)

Vesperteen already has a dedicated fan following, called the VesperTEAM—and for good reason. With just one self-titled EP under Colin Rigsby’s belt, comprising just six songs, one would wonder how he managed to amass such a fanbase. But just listen to one song from start to finish and you’ll get it: His anthemic rock and soaring, catchy choruses will give you Bleachers and the 1975 vibes. Oh, and his live shows? Expect a high-energy experience where you’ll witness Rigsby perform an entire set behind his drum set standing up. —Kristine Cannon

We Were Sharks (pop punk)

The unforgiving vigor of pop punk is in safe hands with We Were Sharks. Fast-paced melodies ride high above the hurried clattering below—not forgetting sing-along choruses filled with lyrics that ooze angst and wit. In February, they’ll be releasing their new album, Lost Touch, and from the sound of the singles they’ve released so far, it’s going to be one hell of a ride. —Steven Loftin

SYLAR (nü metal)

Hopeless Records' powerful metalcore quintet Sylar have been tossing down ferocious tracks and picking up momentum ever since their debut EP Deadbeat in 2013. From harsh vocals and heavy breakdowns to reflective lyrics and entrancing melodies, Sylar are out to prove they are not a one-dimensional band. The energy pulsing through every track translates into their live performances, drawing in attention from start to finish with their crushing sound and contagious spirit. From their 2014 debut full-length To Whom It May Concern to 2016's Help!, Sylar continue to create a heavily produced almost mechanical sound that breathes a whole new life into nü metal. —Whitney Paxton

Read more: Household are going on tour with Senses Fail

Household (“indie-coated emo”)

At a time when the alternative scene is seemingly hankering for smarter music, emo newbies Household should do really well. If an earnest, sprawling take on punk-influenced emo sounds like your deal, and you dig the likes of Can’t Swim, Microwave and Movements, this lot will be for you. Charismatic yet somber, emo yet uplifting; Household look set for a killer 2018. —Jake Richardson

Sharptooth (heavy)

Fully living up to their name, Sharptooth come at you with the powerhouse rage of uncountable generations scorned. Vocalist Lauren Kashan aims at “fuck-boys” and a certain [expletive] president with her hate-filled screaming while the rest of the band come together like a behemoth to support her. This is one band you don’t want to miss—not that they’ll give you a chance. —Steven Loftin

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McCafferty (rock/punk)

Local to AP’s hometown of Cleveland, McCafferty have been kicking ass in our local scene and nationwide. With a sound reminiscent of the Front Bottoms but with a punk twist, McCafferty will make you dance around. As 2018 brings new music for McCafferty and an opening slot on Moose Blood’s spring headliner, we expect big things for this band. —Shelbey Surgent

Jetty Bones (rock)

In our crazy world, we can always use more women like Kelc Galluzzo, the powerhouse behind Jetty Bones. With lyrics such as “I worked so hard to get here” and “I don't need a lover 'cause I don't need anyone,” Galluzzo sings about self-improvement and a better life. Her live performance will blow you away, along with her genuine kindness while meeting fans. Make sure to arrive early to check them out on Knuckle Puck’s U.S. tour this spring. —Shelbey Surgent

Sincere Engineer (punk-emo)

The jangling chords and untamed vocals of Deanna Belos give a voice to a new disenfranchised generation who are just as confused and sad as the rest of us. Belos writes the kind of songs that remind you why you fell in love with melody and the raw power it can possess. Sincere Engineer is waiting for you to fall in, and out, of love with her. —Steven Loftin

Thousand Below (post hardcore)

With lyrical elements touching on everything from loss to life, it's clear Rise Records’ Thousand Below have perfected potent lyricism in a hypnotizing post-hardcore package. After unleashing their debut full-length, The Love You Let Too Close, last October, the California act wrapped up their 2017 on tour with the Devil Wears Prada, Veil Of Maya and Silent Planet. We're thinking 2018 is set to be their year—and you'll want to have them on your radar ASAP. —Maggie Dickman

Tennis System (indie rock)

LA-based chill rock act Tennis System are bound to take over the indie world. Fronted by Matty Taylor, the three-piece band released their last album, Technicolour Blind, in 2014, filled with mellow guitar chords and undeniably catchy lyrics. The band are wrapping up 2017 on tour with Hundredth. Stay tuned for more—this is a band you definitely won’t want to miss. —Sara Deweese

Save Face (“future rock”)

If you’re looking for something that’s teeming with emotion and feels like you’re packed in a sweaty house show, then New Jersey punk rockers Save Face are the band you want (and need) to add to your playlist ASAP. The band’s 2016 EP, Folly, boasts undeniably catchy hooks and emotionally-laden lyrics, all melded together with Tyler Povanda’s enamoring vocals that are just as epic served live. After releasing their stripped-down Folly: On The Rocks EP, it’s clear that the band’s versatility and ever-effervescent deliveries are by no means slowing down anytime soon. We’re ready for more music, more shows and more rock from one of New Jersey’s most exciting up-and-coming acts. —Maggie Dickman

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