The eclectic eight-piece As The Sparrow creates music that is instantly classic, as seen on their newest release Vacation Forever. The album thrives off of ironic twists, often pairing sardonic lyricism with a surprisingly warm sound, bolstered by full harmonies, fun violins, and quirky synths. As The Sparrow will be celebrating the release of this edgy, yet dance-friendly album at Thunder Road in Somerville on June 22. Until then, stream the full LP below. - Lilly Milman, photo by Erin DeFuria Stark

Thanks to all the artists who submitted their music to be considered for The Deli's Best of New England Year End Poll for Emerging Artists.

After tallying our editors' ratings for the Open Submissions stage, it’s time to release the results. Please note that to avoid conflicts no local editor was allowed to vote for bands in their own scene.

Total submissions from New England: 43

Jurors: Jurors: Juan (The Deli LA), Maylis (The Deli NYC), Paolo De Gregorio (The Deli NYC).

Acts advancing to our Readers/Fans Poll:

1. As the Sparrow (Rootsy Pop) - 8 (out of 10)

1. Jake McKelvie & the Countertops (Indie Pop) - 8

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3. Andre Obin (Electro) - 7.83

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4. Miss Geo (Electro-Pop) - 7.66

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5. Marina Evans (Songwriter) - 7.5

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5. Doug Tuttle (Psych Rock) - 7.5

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7. No Evil Star (Avant-Indie) - 7.33

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8. Radclyffe Hall (Electro-Pop) - 7.16

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9. Jet Black Sunrise (Alt Rock) - 7

9. Sarah Blacker (Folk Pop) - 7

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Honorable Mentions (ranked above 6.5):

Streight Angular, Little Ugly, Ed balloon, The Symptoms, Ponybird.

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WHAT’S NEXT: These results end the first phase of the poll. We will soon unveil the artists nominated by our local jurors, and then let our readers and our writers influence the poll with their vote.

Keep creating, keep supporting, and stay tuned for your chance to vote!  

—The Deli New England Staff

Until recently we had forgotten how much fun dancing to folk music is. Boston Locals As the Sparrow refer to themselves as a “Folk-indie-swing” band, a genre that by itself sounds like a great result of the melting pot of American music. As The Sparrow is a unique and well-executed concept, and their album is a long dark ballad reminiscent of a more elegant and reserved 16 Horsepower.