With Williamsburg currently under the microscope of most music media outlets, the “New York scene” may seem like relatively old news since its burrows are basically expected to produce the most innovative and cutting-edge type of music and artistry. However, there’s a reason the city is under constant attention – throughout the last decade, countless bands and acts have emerged to contribute substantially to independent and underground music, generating well-deserved buzz by changing the way their art is listened to and appreciated. Therefore, here’s our list of four NYC bands that we feel are living up to the hype.

Sleigh Bells

Anybody well-versed in festival culture has already been acquainted with the Brooklyn duo who’ve caught the attention of critics, fans and fellow musicians for their impressive mix of commanding beats, distorted guitar and porcelain vocals. Consisting of former teacher and pop artist Alexis Krauss and previous Poison the Well guitarist Derek E. Miller, the two were signed to MIA’s label, N.E.E.T. earlier this year, and after an incredibly successful EP, are slated to release their first full-length album on May 11.

Already branded one of the “it bands” of 2010, Sleigh Bells have earned kudos for their energetic live performances as well as their ability to translate what’s featured on the record to what they bring to the stage. Having just finished touring with Yeasayer [watch video of both bands playing Ambling Alp together ] the duo may be championed by major media outlets, but the support of their fans, friends and musical peers works speaks for itself.

Class Actress

Like the female-fronted bands of the 70’s and 80’s, Class Actress is alluring, haunting and effortlessly cool, contributing something original to the electro-pop artistry that’s been taking underground music by storm. Led by singer-songwriter Elizabeth Harper and joined by producers Scott Rosenthal and Mark Richardson, the three-piece have drawn the inevitable Blondie comparisons, but unlike most synth-driven groups that fail to make an impact, the band has been championed by musical peers and various publication powerhouses for their modern take on retro beats.

Cited as “Brooklyn’s Madonna”, Harper’s seemingly innocent vocals give way to an authentic rock ‘n roll vibe, while her genuine hipness rises above the hype and acclaim generated by the band’s February-released EP. Currently signed to Terrible Records (run by Grizzly Bear’s Chris Taylor), the trio are making waves across North America, playing dates in support of The xx and Dragonette, and making an appearance in Toronto on June 12.

Holy Hail

Having supported the likes of The Rapture, New Young Pony Club, The Klaxons and most recently, Florence and the Machine, New York City’s Holy Hail have successfully increased their fan base and notoriety, peaking interest as they unabashedly master the sound and rawness once prevalent only in the 70’s or 90’s. A mix of rock ‘n roll, hip-hop and electronic, the band continues to challenge both genre conventions and the stereotypical male-female vocal dynamic (which has become prevalent in most indie), using their lyrics not to whisper sentiments, but to fearlessly mark their presence.

An eclectic group of DJ’s, artists, writers and musicians, Holy Hail (consisting of Cat Hartwell, Mike Egan, Kevin Cooke and Jesse Sposato) seems to properly reflect the intensity and multi-dimensional qualities of today’s youth culture, and with their latest EP, The Dying Party, currently commanding attention, their profile will undoubtedly continue to rise.

Holly Miranda

Brooklyn-based Holly Miranda has worked to capture the hearts of music lovers everywhere with her engaging persona and dreamlike vocals since the release of first single, Forest Green Oh Forest Green in November of 2009. Following the release of her debut full-length album, The Magician’s Private Library in February, the singer-songwriter continued to expand on and entrance her fan base, drawing each and every listener in with her magnetic qualities and obvious display of artistic emotion.

Signed to XL Recordings, the songstress is an exception to the current indie underground rules, finding solace between the worlds of pop and rock and putting forth a highly-produced (though incredibly intimate) piece of material. While her UK dates were forced to cancel due to the infamous ash cloud, her upcoming North American appearances will surely solidify her status as a valuable artist, further perpetuating the notion that New York City truly breeds talent.