This Paris-born, Israeli folk singer of Tunisian decent has a distinctively global perspective. After a decade of classical piano lessons, Yael Naim teamed up with West Indian producer David Donatien, who encouraged her to use her vocal gifts in her native language of Hebrew. In addition to creating the Billboard hit, “New Soul,” together they dared to cover Britney Spears’ pop hit, “Toxic,” and artfully transformed it into a sensual ballad. Her current album, Yael Naim, is the first Israeli solo release to be a Top 10 hit in the United States.
International phenomenon Piers Faccini stunned the London scene a decade ago when he began transforming his moving poetry into intense acoustic compositions. He effortlessly blends African rhythms, folk and rock sensibilities, and heart-wrenching lyrics to create unique emotional dialogues with his audiences. His latest album is Tearing Sky.
Though based in Paris, Herman Dune's musical family tree extends to Brooklyn, Sweden, Berlin and the UK. With deep roots in the anti-folk scene of New York City and the longtime support of BBC Radio's late John Peel, the charming and hirsute duo of David-Ivar Herman Dune (vocals/guitar) and Neman Herman Dune (drums/percussion), have developed a devoted underground following since the legendary band formed nearly a decade ago.
Herman Dune's 2nd US EP out this year, 1-2-3/Apple Tree, (Everloving 6.24) is another bite-size dose of their catchy, off-kilter pop. "Perfect mixtape fodder," said Pitchfork. The title track to their previous EP release, I Wish That I Could See You Soon, was a year-end Top 100 song for Rolling Stone.