Working at Ultimate Ears, it’s safe to say we’re all music fanatics. To show our support, the UE Artists to Watch program highlights and features artists – some unsigned, some from major labels from all over the world. The program has raised visibility for more than 100 artists and it continues to grow.
This is an exciting time of year, as some of our newest acts are currently touring worldwide. Hailing from Alabama, Alabama Shakes was named one of the top bands in 2011 by NPR as and a top band in 2012 by MTV. The band also recently announced its 2012 Fall U.S. tour to promote debut album, “Boys & Girls” – hitting all of the major cities and music festivals! Alabama Shakes will continue tour life as they travel through Germany, France, the United Kingdom and the Netherlands in November . Alabama Shakes also have five shows scheduled across Australia, to start strong in 2013. Quoted by The New York Times as, “… raw-boned and proudly unprocessed,” this is going to be one show you don’t want to miss – and many aren’t taking that chance, as some shows in the U.S. and Europe are already sold out!
Another new artist making her way around the world is Cold Specks – otherwise known as Al Spx – who just released her debut album earlier this year. Many enjoy her unique musical sound, which resonates with a Deep South tone, history and spiritually. At only 24 years old, Al is no stranger to travel. She moved to Europe in 2010 to pursue her dream of visiting several countries, and will return for her tour in several European countries later this year. She is currently touring through Canada through the end of August, if you want to catch her in action sooner than later!
Straight from Brooklyn, The Antlers have topped many “Best Of” charts, and have continued the momentum into 2012 with recently released full-length album ‘Burst Apart.’ This trio of friends has put together a distinct sound that mixes electronic music with organic pop. The Antlers will continue to tour through Europe and the U.S. for the remainder of 2012, and there are still many chances to catch them!
For more information on any of the artists above, or for a list of many more hot artists, check out the UE Artists to Watch Program. Who are some of your favorite touring artists? Let us know in the comments section below.
