Born on the outskirts of Philadelphia to a family of 10 siblings, Kurt Vile exudes an inspiring grasp of classic rock and modern form. Taking tips from both oldies stations and friends, Vile has a great ability to transform an old sound with just the right touch of the here and now.

His growing popularity these days was many years in the making. Vile started playing the banjo at age 14, and recorded his own albums from 2003 to 2007, before Constant Hitmaker and the songs "Freeway" made him a buzzworthy name around the Web. After signing with Matador Records, he released Childish Prodigy in 2009 and Smoke Ring For My Halo earlier this year.