The Alternative Tone

Check out below the new video for To Kill A King 's "Funeral", taken from their recent album Cannibals With Cutlery. Funeral is a triumphant turn of epic indie-rock which by far outshines most of the other British indie rock bands which are currently doing the rounds. "Funeral" is a bright, upbeat track with wonderfully droll lyrics and vocals as well as sharp instrumentation, all shrouded in a likable intelligence which sets To Kill A King apart from their peers.  

Despite the somewhat disconcerting music video, Grizzly Bear's Two Weeks turned into one of the chirpiest, upbeat breakout tracks from the world of indie rock. Featuring quite theatrical piano playing and sweet vocals, Two Weeks is the ultimate upper song for those who like to stay happy and hip. 

  After seeing Bon Iver live this week,  I can certifiably say that folk ain't what it used to be. Blood Bank somehow morphed into a metal song of sorts and bloody hell it was perfect. One of the less praised songs of his arsenal, due to it only being included on his Blood Bank EP, Blood Bank is one of the few occasions where Justin Vernon actually displays some sort of  lyrical sensibility makes Blood Bank one of the most attractive narratives in indie rock. Yes, the studio version of it isn't quite a rock song, however it most certainly is the sound of a beautiful winter. Perfect. 

Blessed by John Darnielle's usual genius in a lovable way lyrics and a very simple acoustic guitar, You Were Cool is one of the most  bizarrely motivational songs around. Never officially released, You Were Cool is a gem in an illustrious back catalogue.   

Taken from 2005's Alligator, Mr November displays The National at their most emotional and most raw. Less produced and more rocking than their later efforts, Mr November features memorable lyrics ( 'I won't fuck us over, I'm Mr November') and displays early signs of the characteristics that have made The National the massive band that they are today, whilst having the odd hint of post-rock instrumentation. Seven years later and it's just as good as ever.