III. My local scene

After living in Central Florida for 20 years, I've had no choice but to take notice of the following artists. Most originate in my homestate, but a select few are from Georgia because I figure, hey, it's close enough. There are hundreds more to add so I'll surely be updating this list. I am not claiming that every single band listed deserves your time and appreciation, though I am only truly opposed to one band on the list (spot the :( ). Anyway, I used asterisks to denote my top picks and have left notes next to some artists you probably should check out!

Under the radar...
Midnight Matinee [GA]* - I love, love, love them! Though young, this Georgian ensemble holds a lot of promise in my eyes. "The Feeling" is totally gripping at first listen and got me hooked a year and a half ago! Leadsinger Patryk McLaughlin's voice has a moody, yet melty-smooth quality to it that is paired with interesting riffs and original breakdowns. Hear at: www.myspace.com/midnightmatineemusic
Easton
Doubting Benefit
Vega Under Fire* - I'm convinced that this adorable Naples-based pop quintet WILL catch a break. They have the looks, the drive, and most importantly the talent. "Catapult" and "Fabricated Air" are the highlights of the Life of the Party EP and great choices for singles. Good going, boys.
Broadway
Polaroid
The Soundtrack [GA]* - Giddy girly goodness! As alluded to in their promo pics, the Soundtrack's music is great for blasting at an all-girl sleepover or something along the likes. Singer Rachael Petit has an amazing voice and a knack for writing cutesy-clever lyrics that pop fans can happily embrace and memorize easily. www.myspace.com/thesoundtrackatl
Select Start
Transmit Now
I See Stars* - Don't know why I love this band, but I do. I'd call them a cross between Breathe Carolina and good music. "Project WakeUp" and "The Common hours" bring something new and fun to the table, mixing dancey synth backtracks with melodic hardcore vox. Oh, and I believe every member of the group is younger than 20 years old.
Amely
Go Radio - Post Mayday Parade, Jason Lancaster started this twangy pop project. It doesn't have a lot of momentum yet, but time will tell if they can eventually make it.
Maisie
Tela Flora*
The Rise of Science [GA]

On the rise...
Black Kids* - Unlike others on this list, BK is making it's way into the indie club scene with their popular single "Not gonna teach your boyfriend how to dance" which has been remixed by the Twelves and Lil Wayne. While I am a fan of their 2008 full-length Partie Traumatic, I wouldn't say it's for everyone.
Oceana
A Day to Remember* - There is not one bad song on their latest album, Homesick. Give tracks 1-12 a listen ASAP!
Hey Monday!
VersaEmerge* - Their old stuff with a guy lead vocalist was heavier, and arguably better. However, current leadsinger Sierra Kusterbeck is adorable and plenty talented, so get to know them! Signed to Fueled by Ramen in late 2008, VE released their self-titled EP this year with a track or two eerily resembling labelmates' Panic! at the Disco's theatrical styling.

You already know...
Between the Trees* - See "II. Current must-listens" blog.
There for Tomorrow
Mayday Parade* - Mayday, oh Mayday. We go back to high school years with "Your song" and "Three cheers for five years" off of Tales Told by Dead Friends. Four years later, I am still a fan of your emo/pop-rock tracks. This band continued to satisfy with their 2007 follow-up A Lesson in Romantics and the revamped single "When I get home, you're so dead".
We the Kings - :( Boys like Girls is already a band, and they have better hair. Thanks for trying, though!
Cartel [GA]
Yellowcard - An old obsession of mine, YC is the first band (excluding NSYNC) that I saw live... and saw multiple times in one year. You've gotta admit a little classic violin blending into a sugary pop song is a pleasant twist. I still smile when I hear anything from the Underdog EP through the Ocean Avenue full-length. Sadly, I cannot defend any of their following releases :(

*My top picks