PureVolume, at its core, has always been about representing a DIY spirit and supporting those bands making music on their own terms. That's why, come year's end, we've made it a point to roll out our Best of Unsigned feature. It's our way of toasting to the biggest and brightest talents of today's underground and tomorrow's scene stealers. Check out the list, stream a tune from each band, and keep your eye on each as we head into 2013.
 

10. The Dig



This New York City outfit first caught our attention with the premiere of their quirky video for "I Already Forgot Everything You Said"—a tune which showcases their eclectic take on indie rock. It's a sound that's turning heads, and one that will continue to set them apart from their countless contemporaries. Check out their new album, Midnight Flowers.


9. Move Out West



These pop rockers are far from strangers when it comes to PV, but this year has seen a distinct shift in sound from their music—particularly on their new EP, All's Well On The Eastern Front. The effort spans a multitude of genres, including pop, rock and punk, and positions the band as a new force to be followed moving into 2013.


8. The Icarus Account



Twin brothers Trey and Ty Turner have been delivering their signature brand of melodic pop rock on a DIY scale for a few years now, but 2012 has truly proved to be a milestone for the pair. This past August, they premiered their new album, Carry Me Home, showcasing both a personal and musical growth and garnering them continued support from their ever growing fanbase.


7. Sick/Sea



This Texas trio may hail from a small town, but it's those roots that have helped them to craft their distinct brand of indie rock. Launching onto the scene this year with their debut EP, Moral Compass, the band quickly gained a following thanks to their down-to-earth appeal (we're thinking of that "Robot" video) and their jazz-speckled tunes.


6. Sad Robot



This LA-based buzz band have yet to drop their debut full-length, still they've already caught the attention of heavyweights like FOX and RCRDLBL. With a sound that's as gritty as it is melodic, they're bringing their own touch to standard alt-rock, and it's this ingenuity coupled with skill that is sure to bring them continued success once that full-length finally drops.


5. The Spring Standards



We were first introduced to these Brooklyn-based indie rockers when they premiered their striking music video for "Heavy Home," off the impressive yellow//gold. Since then, the band have gone on to launch a Kickstarter campaign for the creation of a live album, reaching their goal of $12K within a mere 67 hours. Pair that with a tireless tour schedule, and their efforts to share their music with a larger audience have not gone urealized.


4. Maker



This year, the indie/punk scene has been hit hard with talent, and Massachusetts' MAKER has been helping to lead the movement. Packing a sound that emanates an emotional urgency and stands out thanks to hook-laden melodies, it's no surprise the outfit have spent the past year touring with the likes of Hawthorne Heights, Major League and Turnover, It's their self-titled EP, however, that has cemented their place as a band you should keep on your radar entering the new year. 


3. The New Limb



Hailing from Los Angeles, Calif., this five-piece have had us hooked on their sunny pop melodies and pretty instrumentals since premiering their live video for single "Refugees." Recently, the band released a 14-track mixtape, Inconsistencies, comprised of live tracks, covers, and originals. The effort (which you can snag for free) continues to highlight their raw talent and the unwavering passion they bring to their music.


2. Pentimento



This Buffalo, New York outfit represent everything that punk music stands for—passion, individuality, creativity and a solid DIY spirit. Despite the setbacks presented to them this year, they forged ahead and dropped their self-titled debut full-length to rave reviews, inspiring fans with both their music and perseverance, and earning themselves the well-deserved title of "Best New Artist" on our very own PV Readers Poll. 


1. Ghost Town



From mysterious alt-rockers delivering ghoulish inspired tunes to a very official foursome with a swarm of devoted followers called 'ghosts,' Ghost Town may just be the surprise breakthrough of the year. Between Ghost Town Tuesdays, Haunted Fridays, and their recently revealed plans to tour and work on a full-length, we have a feeling 2013 will be the year of the Ghost—and we're excited to have taken part in their journey from the very beginning.