Country might still be king in Nashville, but there are plenty of emerging rockers leading a revolution. Notable groups gaining traction on the national scene include:

• JEFF The Brotherhood – This two-piece group composed of the Orrall brothers – Jake on three-string guitar and Jamin on drums – moves effortlessly from Black Sabbath- and Hawkwind-flavored heaviness to updated punk. Their most recent album, “Hypnotic Nights,” was produced by The Black Keys’ Dan Auerbach, which should help the brothers gain more exposure around the country. Website: http://jeffthebrotherhood.com
• Turbo Fruits – Lead singer Jonas Stein has assembled a tight unit after years of a sliding lineup that makes this four-piece one of Nashville’s most exciting acts, regardless of genre. Jim Eno of Spoon produced the band’s scorching new classic rock-flavored album, “Butter,” which was released Sept. 11. Website: http://turbofruits.com
• The Features – This quartet from nearby Murfreesboro, Tenn., is nearing the 20-year mark and has long been a local favorite. They’re getting a much-deserved push outside the Nashville area thanks to their association with Kings of Leon’s Serpent and Snakes Record. Website: http://thefeatures.com
• PUJOL – As one of Nashville’s most literate rockers, you can usually find Daniel Pujol with a book in hand and always ready for a deep discussion. He name-drops Robespierre and the Magna Carta with a snarling growl over sugary power trio grooves on his latest album, “United States of Being.” Website: http://pujoldotcom.com
• Natural Child – This trio of blues-rocking scene veterans is releasing two albums this year – “Hard in Heaven” came out Sept. 11 – and they really are twice the fun. Steeped in early 1970s rock and a let-it-roll attitude, this band might provide Nashville’s best live show, complete with mosh pit and crowd surfing. Facebook: http://on.fb.me/PNyjXW
• Heavy Cream – This is not just a male-dominated scene. With guitars dialed up to fuzz, the all-female quartet Heavy Cream is louder and more abrasive than the boys in town. Ty Segall produced their latest, “Super Treatment.” Facebook: http://on.fb.me/a0FqF2
• Diarrhea Planet – This pungently named six-piece features four guitarists (sometimes five!) and recently was cited for violating the city’s noise ordinance. “Guilty as charged,” lead singer Jordan Smith said. Buried beneath the volume is a devious sense of humor. Facebook: http://on.fb.me/QijN50

Chris Tablott

Chris Talbott