Generally uneasy and slyly experimental, when Rich Ruth's Thruster settles down for a moment, it likes to ease into a minimal funky groove like if Parliament had temporarily replaced George Clinton with a Gameboy. But that's only one sound of many to be found here—there's off-kilter folk, off-kilter new wave, off-kilter world influences, and other assorted sounds that generally leave the kilter at home, whatever that is in the first place. It's an enjoyable listen all the way through, sparse but never short on new ideas, and you can give it a listen below. -Austin Phy

Some artists aim to make music that make you think, whereas others seek to make you feel, or move. Recent Brassland signee Fusilier somehow manages to play music that does it all. His electronic-funk sound enters through the ears and spreads to the rest of the body like a virus - a virus that only dancing with abandon can cure. Simple drum grooves drive 'The Moment,' while his seductive R&B vocals and the track's shifting arrangements contribute in forging a very personal sound. Bringing it alltogether is Fusiler's rock pedigree, as his distorted guitar riffs and bass paterns add a pop to really make the music standout.  Fusilier's sound is fresh, no doubt, and we can hopefully expect an EP from the ex-RIBS member soon. — Henry Solotaroff-Webber - Photo by Chris Oquist

Boston indie-pop band Amy and the Engine are going places, though their polish and quality could lead you into thinking they were already there. The band employs all six of its members to full advantage, and the result is a pop sound that is deceptively layered and easiliy listenable. The lead and rhythm guitars interplay freely, producing rich melodies and countermelodies that serve as the driving force behind each song.

Alongside this understated complexity is the diverse set of influences the band posseses, as they flirt with genres like country, hard rock, funk and even a little R&B at times. Their ability to do this owes largely to lead singer Amy Allen who can seemingly do it all with her impressively enormous range. You may not be able to catch this band for much longer before they fuly hit the mainstream, and you can do just that outdoors on June 9 at City Hall Plaza. —Henry Solotaroff-Webber

Hey new music lurvers!

We just finished updating our SF Bay Area Best Emerging Artists Playlist, featuring all the best local up and comin talent we covered in the last few years! Check it out HERE!

The Folks at The Deli