It's that time of year when Rolling Stone names the brightest up-and-coming acts primed for a mainstream breakout. Ironically, while the feature is titled "Artists to Watch," there is some debate over whether this feature artificially increases the recognized bands' fame or if those bands accomplish the feat on their own. Either way, Rolling Stone has picked some genuine new, relatively unsung bands along with some bands indie circles have heard about for some time.
This year's honorees include:
Low vs. Diamond
Laura Izibor
Ra Ra Riot
3OH!3
Dead Confederate
Lykke Li.
Congrats to the honored artists. Now go do something with your newfound fame!

Lykke Li »
Ra Ra Riot »

Why do they release the list in the middle of the summer?