**Special Note: In honor of the last day of Finals Week, we (Alyssa, Julie, and Quinn) are profiling the artists who made it to the number one spot in their respective channels.

In the interest of full disclosure, I have to acknowledge that I have met the members of Or, the Whale, and I think they’re a pretty cool crew.

Now I’m not saying I’m rooting for them. I leave those matters to the fans. But I will say that it’s always good to see a three-time top-ten artist finally make it to the number one spot on their channel (see: Johnny Boots). And I’ll also say that it’s very cool to see a band with such a new and unique sound find the audience it deserves.

I met the members of Or, the Whale at this past year’s Noise Pop music festival in San Francisco (their home town). They earned a performance slot opening for The Dodos at Cafe Du Nord after landing in the top-ten on the Noise Pop channel on OurStage.

They took full advantage of the opportunity.

They rocked the packed crowd with a sound equal parts Carter Family and Tapes ‘N Tapes. Of course, they also know how to write a mellow song as proven by their current number one song “Rope Don’t Break.” Vocalist Lindsay says she wrote it “VERY hungover on a bus ride one day.”

Well, Lindsay, I hope the number one spot provides some relief.

Check Out Or, the Whale’s Profile. And if you think they’re worthy of the $5,000 grand prize, start judging now!