Yeasayer

Yeasayer is a group of Brooklynites who combine global rhythms, infectious vocal lines, and a futuristic brand of mysticism into one heady brew. The band won early acclaim after 2007 performances at the South by Southwest music festival, swiftly becoming a favorite of the ever-fickle blogosphere. The eclectic quartet cites everyone from Cyndi Lauper to Prince and Leonard Cohen as an influence, and the end result is a melange of pop references. While they have certain affinities with fellow New Yorkers in Animal Collective or Gang Gang Dance, Yeasayer favors an organic approach -- serving up tribal rhythms with a dense, psychedelic flair -- relying on old-fashioned instruments in addition to the synthesizers and electronics. Anand Wilder handles keys and intricate guitar fretwork, backed up by Luke Fasano on a futuristic drum kit and Ira Wolf Tuton on bass. Live, charismatic frontman Chris Keating hollers and swoons, arms outstretched like he's beseeching the heavens to bring more cosmopolitan disco funk. Yeasayer is surrounded by a veil of mystery -- they appeared seemingly from thin air, determined to inform the masses that "by 2080 only enlightenment can prevent terror." But of course.