Longview | 03.21, 11 p.m. - Cedar Street Courtyard
When these Brits came out; I had a hard time keeping them and the similarly named Longwave straight—that is, until I listened to them. Longview is the British band, indie rock-pop but otherwise unlike American quartet Longwave. Though comparisons to Snow Patrol aren't entirely unfounded, they still put forth a unique sound. With songs both soaring and anthemic, their music's instantly appealing yet familiar. I've not yet seen them live and am looking forward to doing so. (www.myspace.com/long-view)

Manchester Orchestra | 03.18, 1 a.m. - Radio Room Patio
At CMJ '07, I made my way to Brooklyn club Southpaw to catch Kevin Devine on a singer-songwriter bill. Before him was Andy Hull, a name unfamiliar to me—until I heard him sing and recognized him instantly as the frontman for Manchester Orchestra. Their debut full-length, I'm Like a Virgin Losing a Child, did not leave my CD rotation for an entire year; it's that good. Driving beats and Hull's unique, reedy voice make for an indie rock lover's dream. With a full band backing him up, Hull can only be more commanding. (www.myspace.com/manchesterorchestra)

Okkervil River | 03.20, 1 a.m. - The Parish
Austin-based Okkervil River's latest, The Stand In, has received critical acclaim everywhere, from Entertainment Weekly to The New York Times. Frontman Will Scheff has a plaintive yet rich voice; the songs are instantly captivating, drum-along numbers. I haven't seen the band in a good six or so years; the live show can only have improved in that time. As for the music, well, these are songs that won't quickly leave your head—and that's a good thing. (www.myspace.com/okkervilriver)

The Pains of Being Pure at Heart | 03.20, 11 p.m. - Emo's Jr.
Their fast-driving, dance-inducing, blink-and-they're-over songs take me back to the days when '80s New Wave gave way to '90s indie rock. The music's tightly woven and up front, the vocals secondary, pushed down. Though it's not the most original thing you've heard, it's not derivative, either. Expect a high-energy live show. (www.myspace.com/thepainsofbeingpureatheart)

Pete & the Pirates | 03.19, 1 a.m. - Wave Rooftop; 03.20, 7:45 p.m. - Cedar Street Courtyard
What is it about British bands and their definitive sound? All the way from Reading in the U.K. is this quintet of chaps who recall post-punk bands such as the Buzzcocks. The music's driving and straightforward, lyrics delivered a lá Adam and the Ants—in other words, there's a definite mid-'80s vibe going on—leading me to picture the energetic intensity of a Futureheads show. (www.myspace.com/peteandthepirates)

Ra Ra Riot | 03.21, 1 a.m. - The Parish
Thanks to some early blog love, this New York band has really blown up, and with good reason: their music's a nice blend of sounds, instantly engaging. Debut The Rhumb Line, released on both Barsuk and V2, has garnered praise on both sides of the Big Pond, and led to tours with such notables as Death Cab for Cutie and the Cold War Kids. It's simple and not all that challenging, but also comfortable as an old friend. (www.myspace.com/rarariot)

Scotland Yard Gospel Choir | 03.21, 8:30 p.m. - Smokin' Music
How is it that I have gone all this time without seeing Chicago's Scotlard Yard Gospel Choir? It's high time I remedied that. Their high-octane, uplifting songs inspire foot-tapping; the music seems like something that would unite an audience. They call themselves a chamber-y, folky pop band—an apt description if you really must put a label on it. (www.myspace.com/scotlandyardgospelchoir)

Seabird | 03.18, 1 a.m. - Wave
Seabird were supposed to play Cicero's last fall but, due to illness, were forced to cancel. I've harbored a bit of a grudge ever sense; I was really looking forward to seeing them. Looks like SXSW is going to be my chance. Their EMI debut Til We See the Shore is one of my favorite releases of 2008, the perfect blend of yearning singer-songwriter and indie rock band. The Cincinnati-based EMI trio write stark, inviting tunes; fronted by the classic-sounding vocals of Aaron Morgan, Seabird is definitely one to watch. (www.myspace.com/seabird)

The Subjects | 03.21, 9 p.m. - Submerged
I've caught this NYC quartet at Cicero's a couple of times over the past six months and, well, color me impressed. They're from Brooklyn, they're talented, and they're super nice. (I realize the last point isn't required for being a good band; however, it certainly does help.) On stage, you can tell the guys are having a good time—and that enthusiasm extends to the audience. Mellow becomes poppy so seamlessly, the energy is palpable. (www.myspace.com/thesubjects)

Via Audio | 03.19, 1 a.m. - Habana Calle 6 Patio
Inviting male-female vocals blend softly over pointed, memorable guitar lines, lending this NYC/Brooklyn band an air of individuality; when the voices merge, the effect is only heightened. Probably not the best 1 a.m. band (I still maintain those bands need to be loud and fast, to keep us awake after a long day on our feet), but one that will tap its audience. (www.myspace.com/viaaudio) | Laura Hamlett

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