The Paper Box NYC

Throw Vision formed in Brooklyn NY this past spring, creating a unique sound that combines the rhythmic sense of Animal Collective, the melodic warmth of Here We Go Magic, the vocal pyrotechnics of 60's soul, and the experimentalism of composers such as Philip Glass. In I, Throw Vision's debut set for release on February 5th, is a diverse collection of songs: classically-inspired compositions, quirky indie rock, and R&B;/soul grooves. Always memorable, yet highly accessible, Throw Vision's music re-imagines and re-invigorates Brooklyn's lazy indie scene. Visit throwvision.org for previews of the album and information about the band.

Vensaire is kind of like Animal Collective on acid, it's really catchy but dreamy and trippy at the same time. The boys in the band are a good looking bunch and put on a great show (when they aren't too wasted). They are brand-spanking new, so talk about this band at a party and reach uber-hipness. - Guest of a Guest

Half Waif began in early 2012 as the solo project of Nandi Rose Plunkett, in a bedroom in Brooklyn, newly relocated from Massachusetts by way of Ohio. The songs emerged as a way of piecing together the patchwork, fragmented story of home--where do we belong when our hearts lie with so many different places? Ultimately, Half Waif is a tribute to both the dark resonance of Plunkett's beloved borough and to the textures of her multicultural childhood home--the twin spheres of India and Ireland. With the added talents of Thomas Alton Crane and Greg Chudzik, the project has evolved into a confluence of keyboards, vocals, bass, and drums that (to steal the words of one French magazine) hints at a kind of "pagan jazzy pop." In October, they saw their first release, a split 7" with Deerhoof as part of Famous Class's LAMC Series, and are currently recording their debut EP.

Celestial Shore have an obvious Beach Boys tip about them, but they twin it with a love of Math Rock - the twisting guitar and synth patterns snake around like a loose hose, drenching the song in a shimmering nostalgia. It takes the simplicity and innately classic sound of The Beach Boys harmonies and filters that through the clutter of the 21st century. It means it avoids being yet another yesteryear trip, and becomes something truly inventive. To paraphrase the great Jean Luc Godard, it's not who you steal from but where you take it.