Tako Lako are a Danish band that make loud, chaotic Balkan beat with a gypsy twist. To pull off such a cocky concoction in a pop-obsessed nation is a bold move.  The band remains allegiant to their roots in Balkan music despite their meteoric ascendency to fame this year, the catalyst of which was being signed to none other than Sony records. An assault on the kitsch wasteland of mainstream pop music is nigh.

Humility and honesty are as rare as moon pearls on the local dancehall scene. Raske Penge’s anthems have added a soulful stroke of genius and quick wit to Denmark’s music scene, and unlike many performers on the dancehall stage, the Nordvest resident hasn’t gotten ahead of himself.

Just when we were starting to forget the familiar, friendly folk sounds of their amazing 2009 hit ‘The Balcony,’ the indie-folk band burst back on the radar with a stunning new album, Dead Ends. As lively as the blue and lilac cover art on this  album, The Rumour Said Fire are on course for a great 2013 if their achievements this year are anything to go by.

4. Lukas Graham

He may be a tad too sure of himself, but Christiania-bred Lukas Graham has had a big year in 2012. His sublime vocal talents alone are worth credit and for a debut album, his eponymous work is something he can be very proud of. Watch out for this kid.

The Saints haven’t been as active this year as they were in 2011. However, a well earned ‘P3 Guld’ award back in April accompanied by a modest performance at DR’s concert house just about does enough to squeeze them into the top five.

6. Vessel

7. Klumben

8. Spleen United

9. CTM