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.

Mostly known worldwide for their hit, “I Believe in a Thing Called Love”, British band, The Darkness, were a throwback to the late 1970’s power ballad bands and carved themselves a brief international niche.  While some view The Darkness as a one hit wonder, they did well in England and are more successful than the casual fan understands.

The Black Keys are often labeled as an Alternative Band, but the duo comprising the band from Akron, Ohio have so much blues influence in their sound that in some ways seems like the natural evolution from blues influenced rockers form the early 60’s.

The All-American Rejects were one of many bands in the 2000’s to capitalize on the pop-punk sound, and had three top ten hits (Dirty Little Secret, Gives You Hell & It Ends Tonight), while doing it.  While they were a successful and fun band, they were not exactly innovative, even by their own admission.  Any chance that the All-American Rejects will depend on how well their hits age.