Mutemath

Originally something of a long-distance songwriting partnership, Mutemath eventually based itself in keyboardist Paul Meany's home town of New Orleans. Artists from that town seem to be able to pull off eclectic without seeming like musical dilettantes, and Mutemath is no exception. Its popularity with fans of jam bands and improvisational music is somewhat curious, considering that much of Mutemath's material is an amalgamation of electronic pop and atmospheric rock, with threads of R&B running through it. But the musicianship is impeccable, and the songs have a flowing groove underlining their melodies, suggesting some jazz training among the group's members. Despite getting boosts into the mainstream from high-profile opening slots a few years back and a cover of "Typical" on American Idol, Mutemath's high-energy show speaks for itself — beyond its imaginative yet radio-friendly songwriting.