Mew

One of Denmark’s most lauded bands, Mew specializes in amped-up art-rock. The group’s dramatic and dynamic sound was honed in the late 1990s, but came to full fruition on its 2003 major-label debut, FRENGERS, which showcases both Mew’s shoegazer leanings and its bold, stadium-ready aesthetic. Issued in ’05, AND THE GLASS HANDED KITES further explored Mew’s heavier side and expanded its international following. With a guest appearance by Dinosaur Jr.’s J. Mascis (on “Why Are You Looking Grave?”), KITES also pointed to Mew’s considerable debt to early ‘90s alt-rock, an influence proudly embraced by the Danish ensemble.