London label National Anthem have been hoovering up the very brightest new UK/US talent since the arrival of Haim and Chvrches a couple of years back. They continue this trend today with LA alt-rock outfit Bird Dog joining fellow Most Radicalist (new) favourites, brother-sister duo Ardyn and Oxford youngster Willie J Healey, on an already stellar roster. The five-piece first uploaded their sprawling single 'The Ocean And The Sea' five months ago, but with the new label on board, it'll see a full release as part of their Misty Shrub EP in January. Drawing on the likes of Band Of Horses and even pre-'Sex On Fire' Kings Of Leon's knack with rootsy guitars and sweetly gruff harmonies, 'The Ocean And The Sea' is a sprawling, utterly contemporary set-piece, and a hell of a debut to boot. Keep an eye out for more heavenly Americana-leaning sounds soon. - DC