The Temper Trap

Launched in Melbourne and based in London, these excitable lads draw obvious inspiration from U2's grandeur but add enough of their own charm to make such arena-majestic sounds seem almost fresh. Indonesian frontman Dougy Mandagi's high, piercing voice would be ideal for house music, and simple tunes like "Sweet Disposition" (heard in [500] Days of Summer) and "Fader" feel closer to rough dance floor sketches than finished songs. But the thrilling, wide-eyed energy of "Science of Fear" and the relentless, beat-crazed instrumental "Drum Song" will ease your darkest moods.

By Jon Young