La Roux, La Roux

Synth-pop duo La Roux has captivated the U.K. with all the fervor of their rapidly paced songs, trying to revive the ’80s faster than you can say, “R.I.P., John Hughes.”

If their sound is a bit more Human League than Breakfast Club—no angst here—at least their name is inspired by front woman Elly Jackson’s signature Ringwald-red cowlick (La Roux means ‘red-haired one’ for those who ne parlent pas français). With songs like the reckless and emotive “I’m Not Your Toy,” “Colourless Colour” and “Tigerlily,” a new-wave homage to MJ’s “Thriller,” Jackson and partner Ben Langmaid have all the ammo they need for stateside success.