Astronomyy - "Don't Need U"

If You Like: Jaymes Young, Bipolar Sunshine. The Weeknd

This song starts out innocent enough. Soothing guitar chords are plucked, a soulful voice arrives, and it seems as if you know where this is headed. But then the beat comes in. Astronomyy, a mysterious British group from Worcestershire, has crafted a stunningly simple beat that takes this song to an entirely new level. It stays relaxing, but now in a zone-out kind of way. Take a listen and let your mind drift away.

Natural Animal - "Who You Are"

If You Like: Cut Copy, Miike Snow, Foster The People

So much electronic music today is either overtly sexual, aggressive, or just bad. The Toronto producers of Natural Animal have made a dancey electro-pop track, that is a happy-go-lucky jam that will put an instant wholesome smile on your face. Perfect for driving down the highway with the top down, this song is ready to be placed on the Summer Songs of 2013 list. Turn it up!

Figaro - "Moving Slowly"

If You Like: Vampire Weekend, The Strokes, Spoon

It is difficult to make a great song, but even more difficult to make a great track that is incredibly simple. Figaro has done just that with "Moving Slowly," a sparse, sprightly pop tune that brings to mind the catchy cuteness of Vampire Weekend. The group, made up of two Americans and a Frenchman, met in college and seem to have quite the knack for making beachy songs. Until we hear more from the promising crew, enjoy the sunny vibes of "Moving Slowly."

Bastille - "Pompeii"

If You Like: Kodaline, Imagine Dragons, Walk The Moon

The British stars of Bastille have made it big in their home country, but are just starting to make waves stateside with their debut single, "Pompeii." The track begins with a jumpy synth line and slowly builds with choral samples, and culminates in a chorus as big as any I've heard this year. This is a stadium-ready hook, and I can see these guys getting a pretty solid following on both sides of the pond. Get ready to cheer and sing along when they head to the US of A this fall for a tour to promote their debut album, Bad Blood, out September 3rd in the US.

Bipolar Sunshine - "Fire"

If You Like: Miike Snow, Mikky Ekko, Frightened Rabbit

I may be a little late to the party here, as the British producer known as Bipolar Sunshine has become a bit of a music blog and Soundcloud star, but this is something I have to share. "Fire," the first song he showed up online with, is gunning for the Chillest Song of the Year award. Delayed guitars, a calming, accented voice, and a chorus that will have you cheering and relaxed at the same time. The track, which includes a laid-back rap and a sample from The Notebook, reflects on tough relationship arguments and the importance of cooling off. This is the kind of song that makes you think about your life with an incredible sense of perspective. 

Try to eliminate all distractions, click play, and savor this one. 

Buy his debut EP here.

Bird

If You Like: DJ Shadow, Pretty Lights, RJD2

It seems that the more mysterious an artist is, the more people want to know about them. This is where the producer who goes by the name Bird excels. First of all, his name is nearly impossible to Google. But after wading through ornithologist websites and mentions of Andrew Bird, I stumbled across www.whoisbird.com. Finally, some information.

The Bird-man is a Canadian producer, fresh off the release of his debut album, La Notte, which you can stream below. The album is a fascinating collection of dark, gangster-tinged beats. This record is incredibly cinematic, sounding like it came straight from a 1920's black and white film. The instrumental tracks soothe, and the songs with raps over them bring the music out of its shell. This little mystery is pretty enjoyable.

BASECAMP - "Emmanuel"

If You Like: Disclosure, Rhye, James Blake

Normally, the Nashville sound involves guitars and a whole lot of twang. BASECAMP, however, are not being constrained by their city's musical history. Their latest track "Emmanuel" has a distinctly seductive R&B vibe and a super memorable hook. The large bass presence floats in the background as clinks of percussion keep the beat going. After getting quite a bit of attention for this track, they are preparing the release an EP in the coming months. Get ready.