The criteria for this list was that the artists had to be based in the New York area, play original music and work the club circuit more regularly throughout the year. The artists are listed in alphabetical order.
Brain Cloud
Starring vocalist Tamar Korn, the band is a throwback to western swing and hot jazz. Brain Cloud play frequently at the Rodeo Bar, Barbes and other clubs.
Danny’s Devil’s Blues
Blues-based rock and roll sung by Danny Biondo, with outstanding guitar work from Dave White. Danny’s Devil’s Blues play frequently at Otto’s Shrunken Head.
The Dirty Pearls
Hard driving punk rock as if it was 1975. The Dirty Pearls often play Arlene’s Grocery, the Mercury Lounge and many other clubs.
The Harmonica Lewinskies
A rock band that incorporates brass, jazz swing, ska and other jumping music, The Harmonica Lewinskies play the Studio at Webster Hall, Arlene’s Grocery and Pianos.
Joe Taino
An outstanding guitarist with a natural feel for blues and rock, Joe Taino performs with his band at the Rodeo Bar and Lucille’s Grill at B.B. King Blues Club. He also performs solo at Bamboleo.
Living Colour
Living Colour started out decades ago playing clubs like CBGB’s and became a major attraction on the national touring circuit. The band’s popularity waned, but the group still plays outstanding hard rock, led by Vernon Reid’s sizzling guitar work, at Irving Plaza, Brooklyn Bowl and other venues.
Rebecca Haviland And Whiskey Heart
Shades of Bonnie Raitt, Rebecca Haviland sings blues and outlaw country like she means it. Rebecca Haviland And Whisky Heart play the Rockwood Music Hall, Arlene’s Grocery and other venues.
The So So Glos
Another throwback to the sounds of The Clash and other 1980s alternative rock acts, the So So Glos have built a core following by playing Brooklyn clubs like Shea Stadium and Manhattan clubs including the Mercury Lounge and the Studio at Webster Hall.
The Hipp Pipps
Loud and fast roots rock and roll played with attitude, The Hipp Pipps perform regularly at Otto’s Shrunken Head.
The Waldos
Led by Walter Lure, formerly of Johnny Thunders’ Heartbreakers, The Waldos relive the greatest glory days of glam rock without the makeup or teased hair. The group performs at Bowery Electric, Home Sweet Home and other venues.
The 30 Most Promising Acts Of 2014
Baron Misuraca’s Vampire Lounge (cabaret)
Ben Fields (folk)
Bernie Worrell Orchestra (jazz)
Bird Courage (Americana)
Fifth Nation (alternative)
Jake Pinto And The Yeah Tones (jazz)
Jeremiah Birnbaum (folk)
Jessy Carolina And The Hot Mess (swing)
Kaki King (alternative)
Kiddo (folk)
Killcode (rock)
Light Asylum (alternative)
Lord Classic (rock)
Love Pirates (rock)
New York Junk (alternative)
The Pendulum Swings (swing)
Pete Ayres Band (soul)
Phony PPL (soul)
Red Gretchen (alternative)
Simple Minded Predators (Americana)
Sky-Pony (cabaret)
Snake Canyon (rock)
Stumblebum Brass Band (jazz)
Susquehanna Industrial Tool & Die Co. (Americana)
TarantinosNYC (surf)
Ten Ton Mojo (rock)
The Nepotist (alternative)
The Von Shakes (rock)
Thornes (rock)
You Bred Raptors? (jazz fusion)
