Sounds like: Thin Lizzy, Tom Petty, the Ramones.

?Why they matter: "Instant classic" is an oxymoron, but the First Times embrace their '70s power-pop predecessors tightly enough to squeeze out a sound simultaneously immediate and timeless. The band comprises five refugees from other Seattle outfits -- including indie folk duo Arthur & Yu, who are signed to Sub Pop offshoot Hardly Art -- who've finally found their groove in the First Times. Infectious songwriting, twin lead guitars, group-sung choruses, boogie basslines... Who needs to reinvent the wheel when it's attached to a hot rod like this?

?You should know: Piecora’s Pizza, a NY-style joint five blocks up Pike Street from Block Party’s main stage, is the origin point (and primary food supply) for many a Seattle band. Lead singer Shane Herrell and lead guitarist Travis Morrison worked there together while starting the First Times.

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