Flaming Lips

Monica Mcklinski, WireImage

This psychedelic, space-loving band, which conjures images of giant hamster balls, has been around since 1983. Yet, they keep cool by playing all the hip festivals. Although they've only had one hit -- "She Don't Use Jelly" in 1993 -- their eccentric live shows always garner favorable reviews.

In their favor: They proved they still have youth energy this year when they performed a record-breaking eight shows in eight different cities during a 24-hour period.
Biggest threat: Burnout and/or a bad trip.
Rating: 34