Kiwi family band takes top US indie award

Dave, Sarah and Dan Gibson from Streets of Laredo.

Kiwi band Streets of Laredo has won a top US indie award.

The Auckland four-piece, who are based in New York, took out the Adult Album Alternative category of the Unsigned Only Music Competition.

About 9000 acts submitted songs the contest.

Unsigned Only founders Candace Avery and Jim Morgan said Streets of Laredo's winning song Girlfriend was "especially impressive" and had scored the band a unanimous victory in their category.

"They encompass everything that should make a major label take notice and sign them now - before someone else does. They are that good."

Streets of Laredo are made up of brothers Dan and Dave Gibson, Dave's wife Sarah Gibson and Si Moore.

Dan is the former frontman for pop-punk band Kingston, while Dave sang for Elemenop.

Judges hailed them as another stand out group from a country "brimming" with successful musical acts.

"In a country brimming with talent, Streets of Laredo stand out for their indie folk sound that is completely current yet timeless.

"Their winning song, Girlfriend is infectious, catchy, and creative, and they might just be the next big thing to come out of New Zealand, following in the footsteps of Kimbra, Gin Wigmore, and Lorde."

Wes Mack of Calgary, Canada took out the Unsigned Only grant prize for his song Duet.

Skipping Girl Vinegar from Melbourne won second prize in the AAA category for Chase The Sun.

Streets of Laredo recently recorded their debut album in New Zealand.

Watch their video for Girlfriend.