Dead Confederate

The college town of Athens, Ga., has given the music world its fair share of rockin' bands, from R.E.M. to the B-52s to the Drive-By Truckers. Add Dead Confederate to that list, an alternative-rock quintet that digs deep into the late '80s/early '90s alternative and grunge scenes for inspiration, then throws in a little Southern rock, alt country and psychedelia for good measure. Originally known as Redbelly when the band started in Augusta, Ga., the group eventually made its way to Athens and settled on the name Dead Confederate. There they were discovered by Gary Gersh, who signed both Sonic Youth and Nirvana in the early '90s. They went on to record and release debut album Wrecking Ball in 2008. Their first single, "The Rat," peaked at No. 39 on the U.S. Modern Rock charts. After touring with heroes Dinosaur Jr. and Meat Puppets, Dead Confederate went back into the studio and released the grunge-y Sugar in 2010.