[BEST OF 2013] Favorite Solo Artist/Group: Carousel

Carousel, duo of Kevin Friedman & Jackson Phillips, have captivated us with their lush electro-pop sound since discovering them in September 2011, but it was this year that Carousel proved they are one of the most reliably brilliant bands making music. They possess an almost superhuman ability to craft savvy pop hooks & tender gossamery melodies. Every song they create feels special and effortlessly comfortable, no easy task for super star artists, let alone young ones. The release of the debut EP, Palms, showcased a refined shift in the direction of their sonic trajectory that hints at the bold new 80′s flared sound, while firmly anchored in what makes them so special in the over saturated world of indie-electro-pop.

Carousel are much more than air tight melodies and dazzling soundscapes, they connect with sincere lyrics that are universal and personal at the same time. They transform every day events into perfect moments that convey the magical experience of just being human. This incredibly rare mix of musical prowess & lyrical ability, paired with an incredible live energy, is why Carousel is my pick for favorite artist of the year.

ALSO THEY COVERED ROBYN, AND DID HER JUSTICE NO SMALL FEAT