Birds of Tokyo

Perth, Australia is one of the most isolated cities in the world. There's an expansive and foreboding ocean to the west and a desolate, desert landmass to the east. Despite the geographical seclusion, Perth has managed to grow into a flourishing metropolitan area with a lively arts and music scene. One band that calls the city in Western Australia home is the alternative rock outfit Birds of Tokyo. Formed in 2004 by four musicians with a mutual love for modern rock's sonic aesthetics, Birds of Tokyo makes an interesting style of music that's actually quite eloquent, despite having some tawdry elements like overtly gushing ballad-like vocals and overbearing string arrangements in many of the band's songs.