Before You TiVo...

While this is surely not a social commentary on the poor habits and expectations of what has been dubbed "Generation Y," or the technology generation, it is no secret that we are characterized in part by our need for instant gratification. How can I make such a harsh generalization, you ask? By a show of hands, how many of you have DVR? See, that's how. But you may want to think twice before you hit the fast foward button, for commercials are often an amazing vehicle for new and moving music. Years later, I carry with me a memory of a Nike "Courage" commercial featuring "All These Things That I Have Done" by the Killers and swoon. Here are some artists worth watching in real time.

M83

Red Bull recently released its "World of Red Bull" commercial, featuring clips from Red Bull Media House's own snowboarding flick "The Art of Flight." Both feature M83's "Outro," an epic ode to dark, celestial electronica. The brain child of French musician Anthony Gonzalez, M83 has been making music since 2001, but has only recently gained transatlantic notoriety with its first double-album Hurry Up, We're Dreaming, thanks to the album's first single, "Midnight City."

www.ilovem83.com

ALEX CLARE

This British Jewish singer-songwriter earned his big break on US soil when his track "Too Close" was featured in Internet Explorer 9's 2012 ad campaign. His contagious beats tinker between soul and dubstep, covering almost everything in between. What's more are the startling honesty and accuracy that make his lyrics so poignant, penning phrases like "Maybe it's another chance/ To mug myself again ... I'm sure I'll fuck things up in the same way."

http://www.alexclare.com/

THE LUMINEERS

This trio hails from Denver, Colorado and is finding success with their debut, self-titled album. Featuring instruments such as the cello and mandolin, the band's sound tends to err on the side of sweet, piano-led melodies; however, "Ho Hey" showcases the unrestrained folk rock Americana sound the band is so capable of. While I placed the commercial below for your reference, I encourage you to watch the official "Ho Hey" video, as Bing's version simply doesn't do the track justice.

http://thelumineers.com/