Bryan Duquette
Promoter, Another Planet Entertainment (APE)

If you live in the Bay Area, you know APE. For those that don’t, Another Planet is a Bay Area concert production company that organizes the best festivals in San Francisco, like Treasure Island Music Fest and Outside Lands. They also book the most coveted venues in town like The Fox Theater in Oakland and The Independent. Bryan is one of the brains behind the music we all enjoy here.  Here are his picks for 2011.

Beirut
Zach condon hasn’t released a full length since 2007’s “The Flying Cub Cup”.  He will grace us again with his orchestral beauty and french horn in 2011 with a brand new record.  The world needs more Beirut.

Okkervil River
Will Sheff may be disheveled, but he’s a lyrical genius and writes a superb pop song.  He’s backed Roky Erikson recently and will lead Okkervil River to the forefront this year.  Folk music is the new black.

Aloe Blacc

Aloe Blacc is an old soul.  He released “Good Things” in late 2010, but isn’t a household name yet.  One listen to his single “I Need A Dollar” and you know what’s next for Aloe.

Seattle (The Head and The Heart / Fleet Foxes)

The Fleet Foxes may be the critic’s darlings, but The Head and The Heart are knocking on that door.  The scene is strong in Seattle and these acts are paving the way.  Both groups dig on harmonies and flannel and will have new material in 2011.

Mexican Summer
This label is putting out the records of the best artists you have never heard of…Real Estate, Tamaryn, Kurt Vile, Best Coast, Weekend, Washed Out, Young Prisms and Tallest Man on Earth to name a few. Check out anything they put out in 2011.

The Antlers
Their complex and layered music is more accessible than you think.  If you haven’t heard them yet, you will.  Look for their sophomore album in 2011.