Metz

Even though the band has been around for five years, Metz just released its self-titled debut full-length on Sub Pop this year. Prior to that, the Toronto-based trio released a few seven-inches. Mostly, though, these guys have spent their time focusing on developing as a group, and on touring and playing shows. Originally, they incorporated samplers and other electronics, taking a psychedelic approach to songwriting. Now, having stripped their instrumentation down to guitar, drum and bass, the players haven’t gone bare-bones so much as they’ve found more creative ways to use basic elements. Often compared to Big Black and Fugazi, Metz definitely has a fire in its belly, and its ferocious soundscaping will make you wonder why you didn’t hear about this group a long time ago.