No, that picture on the left is not a juvie hall line-up. Believe it or not, this group of fresh-faced lads are Bloc Party, the next big thing in the current UK new-wave revival. This band of youngsters from London kicked off their UK career with Dim Mak Records just three months ago with the release of their self-titled EP. (Though they have also released singles and EPs this year on Wichita Recordings and V2). The instant buzz surrounding the EP and the single "Banquet" in particular sparked a frenzied bidding war between several labels for the rights to the band's music outside of the UK. According to Billboard, they have decided to sign with Vice Records (Atlantic), also home to The Stills and The Streets. Bloc Party will reportedly release their US debut album in March, but don't wait that long -- check out three of their songs here and the video for "Banquet" here. Their music isn't incredibly deep or complex, but even the biggest indie snobs won't be able to sit still or maintain a scowl while listening. Kele Okereke (vocals, guitar) has an incredible falsetto and a sound reminiscent of Robert Smith -- although more like Smith would sound after choking down a handful of Zoloft.

Labels: Bloc Party