Marian Hill

Oh, Marian Hill! One of my favorite discoveries of last year, the Philadelphia duo blew me away with their subtle and sexy "Lips." They've kicked off 2015 with a bang -- or more specifically, "Wasted." While they employ the same tinny vocals, well-used space, and delicately building synth and rhythmic layers, this release is a lot darker.  Samantha Gongol's delicate vocals are in sublime contrast with Jeremy Lloyd's deep, dark bass and heavy beat -- and they use it to perfection. The melody gets higher as the bass gets lower, eventually breaking into a flickery synthy chorus before diving back into that excellent verse.  Progressive, catchy, and powerful. Wanna hear more? Buy their newly-released EP Sway, out now on Photo Finish / Republic Records.