One of the most critically beloved band in recent years, The Decemberists have been lauded for their brilliant and creative writing with a pop sensibility.  Their influences seem infinite though they seemingly picked up where R.E.M. left off.  This isn’t a band that will ever dominate singles charts but they did have a number one album (The King is Dead) and has a devoted fanbase.  This is a band that the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Committee will discuss at one point.