I’m not really one for end-of-year lists, where writers struggle to compare and contrast why this record was better than the other – something you may have noticed form the radio silence on the blog over the past couple of weeks. That said, lists for upcoming bands to watch provide an easy way for everyone to find out about new bands and artists that maybe weren’t on their radar before…and so here we are.

I was lucky enough to be part of the panel for the BBC’s Sound of 2014 poll, as well as the alternative Blog Sound of 2014 where I have proposed three acts that I’m excited about over the next few months. But here, I thought a top five would be better.

Jungle

Jungle produced my song of the summer last year, and have a swagger and style which should make 2014 the year that they hit the top of the charts with beautifully produced and laid back electro-funk grooves oozing with cool. Jungle are also the only of my top three picks to the BBC to make the longlist…

Arthur Beatrice

Arthur Beatrice were one of my picks last year, but for whatever reason we didn’t see a full length release from the band in 2013. It is all recorded, however, and with release scheduled for within the next few months, we’ll hopefully be seeing Orlando Leopard et al getting the wider reception they so richly deserve.

Kwabs

Creating music of breathtaking beauty, Kwabena Adjepong has made everyone sit up and listen after just a couple of tracks found online, and Last Stand with SOHN on production duties is just mesmerising. Kwabs may have the least history on this list, but in terms of pure potential you should be keeping an eye on this young man.

Let’s Buy Happiness

Let’s Buy Happiness have been a favourite of this blog for the last few years, and that patience is finally paying off in an album Chants for Friends on its way in 2014. Ethereal indie pop that I’m very excited about.

Chloe Howl

If 2013 was the year that New Zealand teenager Lorde stole the pop limelight, 2014 may well be the year that British songstress Chloe Howl steals it from her, with all her attitude and electronic beats.