All Points East with Death Cab for Cutie, The Postal Service, and more

Born from the vibrant indie rock scene, Yo La Tengo, led by Ira Kaplan and Georgia Hubley, became iconic for their melodic noise-pop fusion. Influenced by acts like Velvet Underground and Sun Ra, they formed in 1984. Known for albums like "I Can Hear the Heart Beating as One" and "Painful," they've experimented across genres, featuring a mix of covers and originals. Collaborations span De La Soul to David Byrne. Their self-produced projects, including "This Stupid World," showcase their artistic independence, while critical acclaim has cemented their legacy in the alternative music scene.

Phoenix, from Versailles, France, won a Grammy for "Wolfgang Amadeus Phoenix" and a Victoires award for "Bankrupt!". They're known for sleek sounds and hit festivals like Coachella.

Wednesday, led by Karly Hartzman, blends outlaw grit and indie hooks with poetic, place-based lyrics. Known for albums like *Rat Saw God*, their sound mixes rock, country, and noise.

Montana-born Colin Meloy leads the Decemberists, known for theatrical indie pop with literate lyrics. Influenced by '60s British folk and '80s college rock, they've released acclaimed albums like "The Crane Wife" and "The King Is Dead," which topped the Billboard 200. Collaborations include Olivia Chaney and guest spots from Peter Buck. The band's popular works include the rock opera "The Hazards of Love" and synth-pop "I'll Be Your Girl," blending fantasy with musical diversity.

Formed in Olympia, WA, Sleater-Kinney rose to fame with their 1997 album "Dig Me Out," listed among Rolling Stone's top 500 albums. Known for a successful comeback with "No Cities To Love," collaborations with St. Vincent and Wilco, and a tour hitting iconic venues.