BRAIDS

Origin: Calgary, AB
Category: EMERGING ANTLERS
Cherchez La Moose: It's official - Braids just blew up. Say hello to your new it-band, Canada. They started generating buzz a few years ago back in Calgary, where they were known as The Neighbourhood Council. They managed to accumulate an impressive amount of press for only having released a few songs, and I was on the fence as to whether or not they just had the right connections. I am really happy to admit that I was wrong though, and that they are actually worth the hype. They just released their debut album Native Speaker, and it sounds like a million bucks. It's interesting, well-written, and it is starting to get some major attention in the US. Lammicken is my current favourite from the album, but I recommend Lemonade and Glass Deers for newcomers.