7. Gaika

Hailing from Brixton, Gaika is one of the most politically driven and interesting Artists out there in the UK. Reminding me of a variety of Acts, from Massive Attack to Danny  Brown, it is hard to pin a specific genre on the Londoner but this could be the closest we have to Trip Hop for a while. Prolific in his releases, Gaika released an album and EP last year, go check them out.

6. Bad Nerves

If I was going to compare this outfit to anyone, it would be TY Segall and if they can be as frequent in their releases as one of their prime influences then we should be seeing a lot of new material from them soon. Expect the East-London based band to be very busy in 2017.

5. A2

Last month A2 released another EP on his Soundcloud page and it did everything but disappoint. After finding him a few months ago, I just couldn’t stop listening to ‘X2 (Dble)’, the blend of heavy bass and introvert synths are near on unheard of in the UK rap scene.

4. Shame

I only found out about Shame recently when I saw them support Slaves. Not knowing what to expect I went with an open mind and came out loving the band. Getting a mosh pit going as a support Act would be hard for most Artists, but not for this one. Their energy on stage transfers into carnage in the audience, tracks like ‘The Lick’ will have you smashing your head to their unique blend of indie rock.

3. AJ Tracey

If 2017 is as successful as 2016 was for grime then this year will be the year for AJ Tracey. Stepping onto the scene with bangers like ‘Spirit Bomb’ and ‘Thiago Silver’, who knows what this year has in store for the West London rapper, expect a big year for him and grime I’m general.

2. Goat Girl

With both of their released tracks barely making the 2 minute mark, it is fair to say Goat Girl don’t have a lot of material but what they do have is some of the most catchy and brilliantly twangy tracks I’ve heard for ages. If they don’t blow up this year I don’t know what will.

1. Cabbage

Back in September I saw Cabbage support Blossoms on their UK tour; I came out of the gig genuinely believing that Blossoms should have been supporting Cabbage. Their provocative live set will go down a treat this year; many other critics have made them their choice for 2017, including The Sun, which provoked them to write a brilliant political outburst on the tabloid. One thing is for sure you should keep an eye on the Manchester outfit this year.