Many of the nontraditional artists who are not commonly heard on mainstream radio are looking to usher in a new era of music in 2008.

Revival of

electronic music

The critical acclaim of “D.A.N.C.E.” by Justice, a French duo, has revitalized the electronic music scene.

In addition to Justice’s work, Cansei de Ser Sexy’s “Music Is My Hot Hot Sex” gained national recognition when it appeared in iPod Touch commercials. Hot Chip will release “Made in the Dark” on Feb. 5, while acts such as The Tough Alliance, Cold War Kids and Uffie will attempt mass appeal by kicking out hip, catchy songs that are perhaps best appreciated while dancing.

Hip-hop roots

The upcoming releases of two of the most recognizable names in hip-hop, Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg, accompany a smattering of rap ensembles hoping to emulate the original sounds and inventiveness of rap. Dr. Dre’s “Detox” is expected to be released during the summer, while Snoop Dogg’s “Ego Trippin'” will be released in March.

The Cool Kids, a young duo from Detroit and Chicago whose style is reminiscent of the slow beats of the early rap years, will debut their first album “The Bake Sale” sometime in 2008. In addition, groups such as The Roots and Gnarls Barkley will release highly anticipated CDs to follow their recent commercial successes.

Female pop artists

Female artists such as Feist and Amy Winehouse reached wide audiences in 2007. This year artists such as Britain’s Kate Nash and indie rock queen Cat Power will release albums that have the potential to capture an even greater following. A large audience has already been swept up by the interesting sound of Cat Power’s song “Sea of Love,” which was included on the soundtrack to the movie “Juno.” Her album, titled “Jukebox,” will be released on Jan. 22.

Indie rock

pervasiveness

The popularity of groups such as Spoon, Bright Eyes, The Arcade Fire and Of Montreal has grown immensely. From references on “The Office” to the soundtrack of “Stranger Than Fiction,” these bands have opened the door for other indie bands to make their way into listeners’ headphones.

The Mars Volta will release “The Bedlam in Goliath” on Jan. 29 to the delight of guitar lovers, while Black Kids, one of Rolling Stone’s top artists to watch over the upcoming year, will maintain a busy touring schedule to introduce themselves to their fans and new listeners.