MissFlag

The alt-rock ensemble missFlag, hailing from Jerusalem, might have remained unknown beyond Israel's borders without connecting with KCRW's Nic Harcourt back in 2007. The band came together in 2005, featuring vocalist Ohad Eliam, guitarist Assa Bukelman, keyboardist Gil Assayas, bassist Shai Saadia, and drummer Assaf Krauss, taking cues from atmospheric British groups such as Coldplay and Snow Patrol. Their English-language songs and approachable style helped them build momentum through MySpace promotions. Harcourt encountered the single "Hidden Thieves" early in 2007; the track entered the station's rotation, prompting an invitation for a live KCRW studio appearance that autumn. EMI and Columbia both pursued the group that same year while the musicians finished their first North American tour. No physical album had appeared by year's end, yet several songs, among them "To Infinity" and "Let It Show," were offered as downloads on the band's website and through digital outlets.