The Whigs/Audible Jones/Diverge

After the Whigs self-recorded and independently released 2005's debut, Give 'Em All a Big Fat Lip, critics called them one of the best unsigned bands in America. After opening for fellow buzz-worthy acts such as Kings of Leon and Drive-By Truckers, they started to live up to the hype. On last year's Modern Creation, they seem particularly self-assured right from the opening notes of the gritty "You Should Be Able to Feel It" as they display an incredible amount of range while staying true to the garage-y, alt-country vibe of the early albums. (Niesel)