The Minor Leagues

Ben Walpole (vocals) and Patrick Helmes (guitar) started The Minor Leagues in Cincinnati as a recording project. But five albums and five band members later (Hilly Kenkel - vocals; Luke McGlasson, guitar and trumpet; Amanda Lee Anderson - keyboards; Jesse Rogers - bass; Matt Retherford - drums), the band probably is best known now for its live shows that regularly feature lots of noise, audience contests, guessing games, more noise, odd dancing, noise and more between-song banter than is medically recommended.

Their music blends Brill Building arrangements with the drive and sing-along choruses of 90s Brit-pop, all set against a backdrop of lush instrumentation. The band's past work has earned them comparisons to recent popsmiths like Belle & Sebastian and The New Pornographers, but their charm, witty lyricism and ear for detail sets them apart from the rest.