Tindersticks

Formed in 1991, this U.K. group exists in a dark, romantic netherworld where Scott Walker replaces Elvis as cultural pivot point. Their moody, string-laced arrangements frame frequently gloomy lyrical themes given voice by basso profundo Stuart Staples, a master of passionate understatement. While not astoundingly prolific, the band sporadically released critically lauded records for decades and their intricate, atmospheric tones lent themselves perfectly to motion pictures, and they became a regular contributor to soundtracks.

• rock
• pop