Barcelona - Basic Man (2016)

Seattle-based trio Barcelona make passionate, melodic music that mixes elements of dance, electronica, and indie pop. Formed in 2005, Barcelona grew out of lead singer/songwriter Brian Fennel's solo material (featured on 2005's Safety Songs) after he paired with guitarist/vocalist Chris Bristol and drummer Rhett Stonelake. Initially, the trio focused on a more acoustic indie pop sound, an approach they showcased on their 2007 debut, Absolutes, and 2012 sophomore effort, Not Quite Yours. In 2013, Barcelona released the single "Background," which revealed a more synthesizer-heavy, dance-rock-oriented sound. A series of EP's collectively known as Melodrama is set for release in 2014. ~ Matt Collar.