We all want to hear something fresh and memorable and discover that next great artist that we can truly garner inspiration and excitement from. But sometimes we could all use a little direction. As such, this article provides a number of suggestions, with each band or artists name beginning with the letter D.



Why the letter D you ask? Why the devil not!

Deftones: One of the greatest bands of the modern era, the Deftones are a significantly influential artist that inspires many of the current crop of heavier bands. Often typecast as a nu-metal band, Deftones exude far greater songwriting ability in comparison to other outfits of their generation. From the sheer intensity of Chino Moreno's scream to the poignant emotion of his lyrics and restrained vocals, each album contains songs so essential that every recording from their catalogue deserves careful attention.

Dirty Pretty Things: It is unfortunate that Dirty Pretty Things often appear overshadowed by the antics of Carl Barat's former bandmate Pete Doherty. Having never been a big fan of The Libertines, it seems clear that their finer moments must've been the handiwork of Barat, since the subsequent recordings of Dirty Pretty Things are far superior to those by Babyshambles. Debut album Waterloo To Anywhere is full of witty, memorable and well constructed songs, indicating a clear growth in the songwriting talents of Barat since the split of his former outfit.

The Doors: Epic, Bach-inspired keyboards, classical guitar work and cryptic and eclectic poetry fused together in perfect harmony with The Doors, one of the greatest artists of the 20th century. The eponymous debut album is full of classic hits, including Break On Through (To The Other Side), Light My Fire and The End, and catapulted the group into stardom. Controversy and infamy would follow the band, in particular vocalist Jim Morrison, yet the prolific work continued to mesmerise generations to come.

Dream Theater: Perhaps not the most accessible of bands, Dream Theater are a must listen for musicians the world over. Boasting one of history's greatest guitarists in John Petrucci, the progressive stylings and sheer complexity of the compositions are enough to thrill and excite musicians with an inclination to any genre. With Petrucci, John Myung and Mike Portnoy establishing Dream Theater when at the Berklee College of Music in Boston in 1985, the group has gone on to create a cult following over two decades for their multi award-winning technical proficiency.

Depeche Mode: Innovative and inspirational, Depeche Mode are an outfit that embraced the world of electronica and sampling and took it to new and exciting levels. A plethora of modern bands - such as Nine Inch Nails, Smashing Pumpkins and Marilyn Manson - cite Depeche Mode as a huge influence on their work, with their far-reaching appeal crossing genres and generations.