The California-based electronic pop trio Hearts of Palm UK create a blend of '80s-influenced new wave and indie pop. Initially a duo comprised of friends Erica Elektra (vocals, keyboards, and guitars) and Sonia Powell aka Frankie Rose (percussion and keyboards), the group formed in late 2006 and quickly recorded a four-song demo that received nods from print and online publications. This attention led to Elektra being named America's Best Up-and-Coming Female Musician in GenArt and Biore Skincare's Undiscover/Discover contest in 2007. The honor came with a financial prize that gave the band enough money to make a proper album. Working with producer Dan Horne, the duo brought in outside musicians to help with the recording sessions and subsequently added keyboardist/cellist Jamie Kaye to the group's lineup. Hearts of Palm UK's full-length debut, For Life, was released by Hypnote in October 2008. ~ Matt Collar & Tim Sendra