The Voluptuals, the Cuckoos, TC Superstar, Space Heat

Chicago’s four-man garage rock philosophers, Voluptuals released Terminal Patience this year, the band’s zippy, punky, indie full-length debut. Austin’s Cuckoos are the baby-faced reboot of Sixties psychedelic rock by musicians channeling Jim Morrison’s bohemian drawl with veteran musical prowess. TC Superstar ascends Austin synth-pop behind Connor McCampbell, who purrs a mellow drone. Their three dancers perform original choreography. – Christina Garcia