These bands often have really upbeat, groovy basslines, dominantly part of the music, but pair it with an otherwise more emotional, melancholic sound. I find that particular combination pretty rare, but really like it when I find it.
Edit: Here are a couple examples:
Mutemath, Sun Ray (or really anything on Odd Soul especially)
Posted Feb 5, 2016, 7:01 PM UTC · edited
How about some Blonde Redhead?
God I love Rick & Morty
Maybe that's a bad example of their work, but it's not really what I'm looking for - almost too mellow/shoegaze? Not looking for super-mellow, just that weird juxtaposition of melancholy and almost danceable grooves.
Tame Impala, Unknown Mortal Orchestra, Portugal The Man and Stars? I'm guessing you're already into Gorillaz and MGMT's second album (Congratulations).
I like Tame Impala, Portugal The Man, and Gorillaz. MGMT is hit-or-miss. Haven't checked out Stars or Unknown Mortal Orchestra.
Spoon? Probably know them already as well. Am also looking for some groovy/danceable alt rock, preferably with some psychedelic undertones and pop hooks.
Ugh, of course, why didn't I mention them. I Turn My Camera On would be a great example!
Electric Guest. Really awesome band that sounds a lot like Broken Bells (to me at least). Listen to their whole album Mondo, but some songs that have that upbeat/melancholy sound: American Daydream, Awake, Under the Gun.
These might not fit as well, but I thought I'd recommend them anyway just in case:
Gardens and Villa - Bullet Train
DIIV - Doused
Little Dragon - Klapp Klapp
I think I have just the thing- an amazing band out of Austria (but you would thing they were from Austin or something) Steaming Satellites -
"Notice" "Friends" "The Sea" "Another Try" and my personal favorite "Monorail"
Approved! Very cool sound.