Editor's Note: This story first appeared in its original format in the new issue of Variance. Click here for the full version.

Photo by Christoph Schaller

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Germany’s self-described “neon pop” five-piece CLAIRE is ready to make the jump to North America. After an impeccable string of performances at SXSW, the Munich-based outfit is destined to be one of this year’s breakout acts.

Although their debut album, The Great Escape, isn’t set to release in the U.S. until this summer, they’ve developed a loyal following back home and they’re anxious to spend much more time across the pond.

Working in their favor is the fact that they’ve already nabbed support from some familiar names. Their single “Games” received a blissful remix from Passion Pit last fall, which came on the heels of CLAIRE’s tour opening for CHVRCHES and Bastille overseas.

CLAIRE Featured in Spring Playlist

With a handful of viral tracks already under their belt through Hype Machine, CLAIRE brings a certain kind of intelligent pop to a market flooded with sugarcoated drivel. And their extraordinary arrangements and breathtaking production are further brought to life by singer Josie Claire Bürkle’s lush vocals.

Another major strength—and likely the one that foretells the band’s longevity—is CLAIRE’s ability to deliver an intoxicating live performance. Unlike many of the Web-savvy acts in today’s auto-tune friendly music culture, their flawlessness isn’t limited to post-production. And it’s one of many reasons CLAIRE is one to watch right now.

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