Acts to watch in 2019

It's no secret that 2018 was dominated by an increasingly downbeat and depressed sound. As all genres of music, rock, hip-hop, pop, dance... seem to be squashed together to make an increasingly bland radio friendly sound to appeal to the biggest number of people possible. However it seems to me that handful of new stars in 2019 may provide some respite.

 Jimothy Lacoste has made waves throughout 2018 by dropping several viral singles. Jimothy is instantly recognisable as the working class London kid wearing expensive clothes and colourful chinos. In his videos he has been seen hanging off the edge of trains, climbing onto busses, dancing in public and generally annoying and confusing London commuters. Jimothy has a musical style that is as unique as his fashion sense. His style of rap music has a retro, washed out aesthetic. Jimothy half raps, half talks over backdrops of incredibly catchy synthpop tunes. Jimothy is an inspiring character who focuses on spreading positive vibes and self fulfilment. You may also recognise Oliver Tree from his various Youtube videos. The 'professional scooter rider' who wears baggy jeans, shellsuits and proudly wears his bowl cut. On the surface Oliver might seem little more than a meme

However his music speaks for itself. Oliver's debut EP is an addictive mix of pop-rap boasting Oliver's knack for writing catchy tunes, and his dry offbeat sense of humour. Judging by Joji's success in 2018, I think Oliver could be the next Youtuber-turned pop star. 
If ironic pop-rap isn't your thing then Heavy Lungs and FONTAINES D.C. could be more your thing. Heavy Lungs are the Bristol based 'blood brother's to IDLES. You may already know about  Heavy Lung's singer Danny Nedelko from the brilliant song IDLES wrote about him. He's a charismatic front-man, and Heavy Lungs dark take on post-punk could make them the next break through band. Fontaines D.C have won over a legion of fans supporting Shame on their recent tour. Especially amongst the IDLES 'AF Gang'. Fontaines D.C. have a singer who embodies the look and carefree attitude of the late Mark E Smith and some of the catchiest punk rock songs to come out of Ireland since The Undertones penned 'Teenage Kicks'. 
Another band who I was hugely impressed with recently was the incredible The Fever 333 a new project raised from the ashes of letlive.  The Fever 333 believe in COMMUNITY, CHARITY, and CHANGE. Their music is an empowered and boldly political mix of metal and hip-hop. I saw them wow the Arena Birmingham. Scaling the bleachers to spread their message to the balcony seats, delivering passionate speeches, backfips and drum solos. They outshined the act they were supporting by far. The Fever 333 are one the most vital and passionate bands in the world right now.