If you love indie rock music but haven’t yet updated your playlist, this post is for you. The music in this piece is tuneful rock released by independent artists who have a sort of superpower to affect your mood, let’s check it out!
People who are searching for new music and indie rock music, in particular, are usually looking for something new and exciting, but they also want to be able to relate and feel a sense of nostalgia.
This is because people who search for new music have had it up to their eyeballs with the mainstream options that have been run into the ground. The problem is: Where can you go to listen to this kind of indie music and find artists who fit the description?
In the past, independent rock was not valued as a subgenre, but it gained a lot of attention and exploded in popularity, independent labels that specialize in finding and supporting excellent emerging talent, as well as airing their new releases on radio stations worldwide, are in a very fertile territory now.
Thousands of new artists are recording and releasing new music on streaming services, so you don’t need to worry about who you will listen to, but about what mood you want to get into.
From soft rock to pop punk and rock ‘n’ blues, you will find your favourite ones for sure, there are beats for every kind of audience.
Be smart, listen to music that has a positive effect on you, and that can’t be any sonorous junk. Take advantage of today’s wide variety of options and choose wisely. You can listen to our full playlist which contains the artists’ music, and know more about their work by scrolling down the page.
1) MOTIHARI BRIGADE – Algorithm & Blues
If you’re looking for a new band to listen to, I highly recommend checking out MOTIHARI BRIGADE. They’re an indie rock band that’s been around for some time and has just released their full-length album, Algorithm & Blues, which is comprised of 13 tracks making heavy metal meeting blues.
The album starts off with “Algorithm & Blues” which is a great track, that makes you wave your head, but while exploring the album your will be punched by a bang: “Rock ‘n’ Roll ToughCrime”.
This second is an anthem that will have you singing along in no time. It’s very rocky but has got a great rhythm and blues sound, retro guitar riffs, and catchy lyrics that make it the perfect song to sing along with when you’re driving around town on a Friday night.
I also really enjoyed “Street Fighting Man” which has more of a pop sound than other songs on the album but still retains the classic rock vibe. The lead singer’s vocals are delivered in a raw way, they’re definitely one of my favourite things about this album—his voice is so clear and pure!
I think Algorithm & Blues is definitely worth checking out if you love classic rock mixed with other genres, or even just want to add some new tunes to your playlist this summer! Visit their website and follow them on Spotify.
2) NOVAK – Tired Of Trying
NOVAK‘s Tired Of Trying EP is a 3-track gem from the Los Angeles-based artist. It’s full of 90’s influences and pop-punk, with a dash of grunge for good measure.
One of the standout tracks is “Tired Of Trying”. The song has a perfect sprinkling of skater rock and punk rock influence, with a heavy dose of indie vibes. The chorus is catchy and punchy, and the first verses are smooth and groovy.
The song has an irresistible energy that makes you want to get up and dance around your room like a crazy person (or at least bob your head).
Another great track is “Can’t Comprehend”. This one leans more towards alternative rock than pop-punk. It has more of an indie feel to it than most songs on this EP, with an interesting mix between grunge sounds and pop-rock vibes. The bass line in this one is super groovy!
The final track on this EP is “Alaska Sucks” This one has some fantastic skater rock influences combined with grunge sounds, which makes for quite an interesting listen! Now check it out, visit their TikTok and follow them on Spotify to discover more.
3) VELVET ROUGE – Save Me
This week, we’re reviewing the single “Save Me” by Philadelphia-based alternative-rock band VELVET ROUGE. We don’t have much to say but “wow”!
The song is a rock ‘n’ roll anthem that uses strong female vocals to create a classic sound reminiscent of US pop-rock culture. If you’re looking for some catchy tunes to listen to while you’re driving or doing chores, this is a great choice!
“Save Me” has an upbeat tempo and anthemic lyrics that will get stuck in your head after just one listen. The chorus is particularly catchy and memorable, with the lyric expressed as a person asking to be saved from herself and that lonely life.
This song is perfect for a night out when you want something upbeat but not too pop and plastic. This is real music here and they what they are doing for sure.
Save Me is their debut single on streaming services, we recommend checking out their website, where they have more info about upcoming tour dates and other information about their music. Follow them on Spotify too.
4) THE STARKILLERS – Are You Thinking Of Me
The Starkillers are an independent band that started in the United States, Salt Lake City, Utah. They have an alt-rock sound with a touch of indie pop and melodic pop rock.
Their latest single is called “Are You Thinking Of Me,” and it’s a super catchy love song with great male vocals. The lyrics make you feel like you’re part of their story.
The band members have been around for some time now but the band as a whole is brand new, this is their debut single. They are bringing more soon, and we can’t wait.
We are sure each future track, EP or album will have its own unique sound because they are innovative but still have a proper Starkiller sound that makes them stand out from other bands.
If you’re looking for something new to listen to on Spotify, check out The Starkillers’ single, visit their website and follow them now.
5) JACOB REDDY – Brand New
JACOB REDDY is an independent rock artist from the United Kingdom, Blackburn, and his new single Brand New is a perfect example of how he’s taken the best of 70s and 80s rock influences and turned them into something fresh.
The synth sound they use throughout the song is absolutely delicious—it’s melodic and poppy without being too sugary or cloying, like you, might expect from a band who’s been influenced by 70s or even 90s pop-rock bands and sounds like a good and old-school teen rock.
The vocals are strong and vibrant, with just enough grit to make them feel real, but they could make it smooth in the same verse expressing a punk-rock blast as it’s versatile. And if you’re looking for some good alternative rock vibes, this song has got it in spades: it’s got all the crunchy guitars and hard-hitting drums you could want from an alt-rock band.
But what really makes this song stand out is its ability to take all these different genres and make them feel cohesive and natural together.
It’s not just about taking one style and aping it; it takes all these different flavours from pop rock culture from the 80s—pop music, alternative rock—and blends them together into something that feels like home no matter where you come from (or how long ago). Check it out now, visit his TikTok and follow him on Spotify.
6) SNAKEDOCTORS – Wuss
Poland’s SNAKEDOCTORS are back with a new single, “Wuss (feat. Ada Nike),” and it’s a trip down memory lane.
If you grew up in the 90s, you’ll remember the rock music of that decade as being full of nostalgia and classic sounds—and this song is no exception.
The grunge-like female and male vocals mixed with a heavy bass line and guitar give it an authentic feel that will have you singing along from the first listen. It’s a contagious kind of music that is perfect for the radio.
It also features a guest appearance by Ada Nike, who sings in English but has a voice that could melt any language barrier between you and an international favourite band.
This is just one more example of why we love SNAKEDOCTORS! Let’s go, watch their music video, check out their website and follow their Spotify channel to stay up-to-date on all things related to this talented band!
7) TIM MECHLING – The Decline Of The Flies And The Rise Of Spiders
Open your mind and “read” this album, TIM MECHLING brought something intriguing this time and there is a history behind it as a whole. The Decline Of The Flies And The Rise Of Spiders is a nine-track masterpiece that will leave you feeling like you’ve just woken up from a long nap that was filled with chaotic but interesting dreams.
Our favourite track, “The Arsonist,” starts out slow and quiet before gradually building into an intense crescendo that’s both haunting and beautiful.
It’s a perfect way to start off this album, which explores themes of Southern Gothic culture, art rock, post-rock, and soundtrack music in ways that feel familiar but also totally unique. It’s the narrative of the war in sound, literally.
Tim Mechling’s voice has a deep timbre that complements his music perfectly—it sounds like he could be singing about anything from murder to love. All of his songs have a cinematic quality to them; they’re like soundtracks for movies that don’t yet exist.
I could go on and on about how much I found this album intriguing and loved it—but will leave you free to have your own experience. Check it out, visit his YouTube and follow him on Spotify.
8) MARK ROSAL – The Invincible Summer
I was impressed by the new single from Mark Rosal, a singer-songwriter from Lake Country, Canada. The Invincible Summer is an acoustic folk rock song with a classic sound that will make you want to sing along at the top of your lungs.
The track has a LoFi style, and Mark’s voice is so soothing and calming—it’s like listening to your favourite oldies station on a rainy day.
The song is about living in the moment and taking advantage of every opportunity that comes your way, which makes it perfect for summertime listening!
I think this song would be perfect for anyone who loves acoustic pop rock music or classic rock culture. It definitely has an 80s vibe that reminds me of Bon Jovi or Bryan Adams (but without all the cheese).
If you’re looking for something LoFi and old-school to listen to while driving around town or relaxing at home after work, give this one a listen! Check it out, visit his website and follow him on Spotify.
9) LOVE GHOST – Dirty Pixxx
The Los Angeles-based alternative rock band LOVE GHOST has released a new single, Dirty Pixxx. It’s a pop-punk anthem that tells the story of a young teen who wants to break free from a toxic relationship.
The song features both male and female vocals, classic rock guitar riffs, and an up-tempo beat that will get you moving.
LOVE GHOST is known for its nostalgic sound and lyrics that resonate with listeners from all walks of life. They have reached several levels of a mixed audience so far, mostly young Millenials and older Gen Zs.
They grabbed the attention of two different generations which is actually a good topic for an emo rock song. Guys, members of the band, attention here, explore this topic “Millennials VS Gen Z”!
The band can be described as “an emo-pop band”, but they explore other subgenres as well, from punk to skater rocks, maintaining a diverse fan base and even resonating with the LGBTQAI+ culture as stated in their music video.
If you want to check out some more great music from LOVE GHOST, just follow them on Spotify, watch their music video, visit their website and keep updated about their next projects.
10) RED BIRD – Real
This week, we’re listening to RED BIRD‘s single “Real,” which is a funky blend of rock and R&B. The track features soulful female vocals over classic rock guitar riffs and retro-sounding drums.
The song starts off with a funky rhythm that makes you want to get up and dance. The lead singer’s voice is smooth and sweet like honey poured over warm toast—but it’s also strong and confident. It’s easy to imagine her singing this song in front of thousands at an outdoor concert.
The lyrics are about being able to trust yourself when things get tough. Often people today try to hide their real feelings by creating an online persona to hide their insecurities and fears, which makes them avoid real, human connections. As a reminder, “Real” means being true to yourself and seeking out those connections and feelings that are true to you.
This song will appeal to anyone who loves classic rock or funk music but also wants some R&B flavour—it’s got everything you could ask for! We think it would be perfect for a summer road trip playlist or a night out with friends. Check it out, visit their website and follow them on Spotify.
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