Here are the 10 bands and artists the VultureHound Music team think you’ll need to be paying close attention to this year.

Slaves

When former vocalist Johnny Craig dipped out of their UK/European Tour supporting Escape The Fate back in January, the future of the band was uncertain. But when The Voice 2014 runner-up Matt McAndrew flew in to save the day like a hero with a cape, it etched a new era into the history of Slaves. So far, they’ve released two singles with Matt in the band, and 2020 is set to be a fresh chapter for them. I’m so excited to hear what they have coming next – Cara Mullen

Fetty Wap

Hardly a new artist, but his stuff still feels fresh, and I think most people just forgot after ‘Trap Queen’. I’m hoping 2020 is the year everyone remembers again – Veronica Skrimsjö

Phoxjaw

Newly singed to Hassle Records and about due a debut full-length album this year, Phoxjaw will be on your radar very soon. If you haven’t yet been acquainted with the Bristol quartet, listen to A Playground For Sad Adults – 2019’s EP that I cannot get enough of. You can also catch them supporting Loathe on a full UK run in February – Cara Mullen

Yungblud

Playing five London shows next year at Kentish Town Forum and at the front of what is likely to be a social movement within the rock community, how couldn’t he be one to watch? – Dani Willgress

Haggard Cat

If you didn’t hear about Haggard Cat in 2019, where have you been? The duo that make enough noise for 10 and embody the most raucous of spirits have been slowly building momentum, ready to get all up in your face this January supporting InMe on a UK tour. Then in March, new album Common Sense Holiday will be here to split your ears open – Cara Mullen

Grief Ritual

Heavy AF and a delight live – Ben Adsett

Anamanaguchi

The greatest 8-bit inspired pop. I’ve heard the new record, and it is truly special – Ben Adsett

Dream State

Dream State have to be on this list after releasing their incredible debut album Primrose Path, which was a close second to album of the year for me. After going from playing Underworld earlier this year to selling out ULU, it will be interesting to see what 2020 brings for them – Dani Willgress

Spookyghostboy

The laid-back soloist from Nashville was back on UK shores this year, and if new single ‘Hello it’s Me’ – released a few weeks ago – is anything to go by, 2020 is set to be quite a year for the 24-year-old. I’m hoping a follow-up to 2018’s full-length Twenty Something will be here this year – Cara Mullen

Floorboards

Modern emo at it’s best – Ben Adsett