Recording information: Chrystal Canyon; Duper Studios; Harry's Gym.

Formerly known as the Beautiful People, the foursome from out of Kristiansund, Norway gained international attention with their two acclaimed EPs released in 2004. 120 Days' dark retro sound leans more to the electronica side than most early 2000s rock acts, with its analog synthesizers, drum machines, seething guitar chords, and Adne Meisford's frantic vocals that recall a young Robert Smith. On their self-titled debut album, 120 Days show a wide variety of influences, including the techno-pop of Kraftwerk and New Order, the heavier alt-rock of The Stones Roses, and mainstream fare of U2.