London three piece KHARTOUM releases the fresh new banger, ‘Some Days’ ahead of their Glastonbury performance this weekend.
Self-produced by the band and mixed by multi-Grammy award winning mix engineer Eduardo De La Paz (Peace, TheHorrors, NoelGallagher), the adventurous anthem oozes indie-rock to get down and dirty to.
Sounds like: The Beatles, Beck, Harry Styles, OK Go, Sunflower Bean, Wolf Alice, Black Honey
common goldfish – Shout Louder
common goldfish – Shout Louder
London-based common goldfish channels 90’s indie rock in his new track, ‘Shout Louder’.
Inspired by the Get Back documentary, the summery single uses a mix of 90’s break samples and psychedlic guitar riffs that are making a come back of late.
Bay city beaut, Magsy releases his new EP, ‘Brite Nite’ and you can listen to ‘Midnight Blue’ below.
Magsy has been writing since he was 14 years old and has used it to answer his questions of belonging, perfectly reflecting his personal experiences. As well as music, he also works in construction, which has helped him hone his creative side.
Celestial North’s luminary new single ‘The Nature Of Light’ is inspired by her studies as a Herbalist and by the concept of The Light Of Nature.
Surging with a pulsing life force of wonderful cosmic pop: woven with bubbling beats, sci-fi keys, fragments of arpeggio and imbued with a euphoric rush of dreamy melodies that invoke the spirit of pagan folklore and our connections with nature and inner hope.
Sounds like: Niki & The Dove, Bat For Lashes, Kate Bush, Oh Land
Childe releases his new single ‘Just Me’, about loneliness in a modern world. It’s a groovy whirl of eclectic synths and darker kaleidoscopic sounds within the chill-pop genres.
Chinese/Australian multidisciplinary creative Dugong Jr shares the dreamy new single ‘Float’ featuring Rromarin. Inspired by the UK garage scene, the electronic producer creates a refreshing take on a classic sound.
Kid of the moment, Matt Maltese, is making waves with his soft take on 2020 indie. With a DIY aesthetic and scarily accurate prediction of current times, despite his continuous daydreaming, you can watch his cinematic video for ‘madhouse’ below.
Sounds like: Beach Boys, Oscar Lang, Glass Animals, Rex Orange County, The Last Shadow Puppets
Indie duo Hoofa considers the true cost of being a musician in 2020 in new single ‘How Do We Know’. A little more of a slow-burner than their usual ambi-pop take on indie, but this perfectly represents their abilities to consider aptly express real emotions.
Austin’s premiere psychedelic-rock connoisseurs The Bright Light Social Hour return with their cosmic, uniquely brilliant new single ‘Ouroboros’. It’s a transcendent journey through psychedelic, distorted guitar licks and spaced out vocal parts.
London-based leftfield alt-pop artist JYLDA shares new single ‘Impulse’. Written about a dark romance, the track rouses in JYLDA’s trademark future-electronica style.
Burgeoning Aussie newcomer Moxley Rey returns with his triumphant sophomore single, a sun-soaked collaboration with Nashville-based alt-pop savant Jeff Carl. A kaleidoscopic cohesion of soothing indietronica, left-of-centre pop and euphoric EDM, it perfectly encapsulates boundless energy perfectly befitting any summer mood.
Right in the forefront of Italy’s buzzing electronic music scene is enigmatic Iranian-born singer Nava Golchini and her band, aka NAVA.
A unique blend of culture and electronic twists, they create music that is truly visceral, both musically and visually. Their new single ‘Skin’ is soft and edgy, as it explores the darker side of human nature.
Out to set the message straight and spread an empowering message to her fans, Talitha is doing ‘Fine On My Own’.
Having only released a smattering of singles over the past two years, Talitha is creating her own definition of R&B in the UK, slowly emerging as one to watch within the genre. The predominantly R&B track hits with a unique vibe, taking pop influences from artists like SIA whilst adding an urban twist.
Indie pop duo Hoofa makes a big splash with their follow up single to ‘Alone‘, called ‘Water Balloons’.
Based on summertime fun in their youth, playing water balloon fights, this is a generous pick up to remind us that being 2m apart outside can still be fun!
We haven’t shared music from electronic duo, Kaleida since 2015, so it was a pleasant surprise to see a new release appear in our inbox!
A lesson in sonic minimalism, the Glashier-directed stunning visuals features an array of solo dancers filmed on the streets in a fully locked-down Berlin.
Sounds like: Aquilo, New Order, Depeche Mode, The Human League, VÉRITÉ, Salt Ashes, Evvy, Monogem, Paperwhite, Chvrches, Palmedo, Prinze George, Nina Yasmineh, Day Wave, Poliça, Rhye, MS MR, Roisin Murphy
Berlin-based electronic pop band NIHILS shares the pop-kissed new single ‘Lost in L.A.’.
In an era of instant gratification, will we ever truly find what we are looking for? This song imagines driving through a desolate Los Angeles looking for purpose and a sense of belonging in an era of never lasting joy.
Lisbon trio Vaarwell is back with a sultry new single, ‘New Woman’.
Set in a dreamlike scene, warm keys underpin the delicate, ethereal vocals we have come to expect from Margarida Falcã. Accompanied by subtle electronic elements, we join Vaarwell on their journey to becoming vulnerable.
East London songwriter Runrummer‘s new single ‘Toronto’ speaks about her experience living in Ontario when she was 19.
It’s about growing up with big dreams, but being confined to aprehensions, “about being gay, coming out, experimenting with drugs, living far away from home for the first time, and trying to live up to people’s expectations.”
Henry Green shares the delicate new single ‘Tide’, featuring London-based vocalist Andreya Triana.
Another slice of ear candy from the Bristol-based producer, the instrumentally focused track is taken from his upcoming new album, ‘Half Light’, which is now due 3 July via Akira Records.
Sounds like: Kudu Blue, Jadu Heart, Jon Hopkins, Erased Tapes, Olafur Arnalds, Nils Frahm, Flying Lotus, Bonobo, Maribou State
What happens when some talented artists team up? A song destined for success, that’s what!
Dutch producer Boris Deckers de Breda aka BODÉ release ‘Wiz’ with San Antonio, Texas singer/songwriter Billy Vena – an honest record about being destined for music success, but with the price that comes with it, aka empty pockets.
Hard working London lads, Hoofa, share their anthemic new single, ‘Alone’.
With comparisons to indie band contemporaries such as Larkins and Sea Girls, as well and lyrical influences from more nostalgic acts such as The Beautiful South and PEACE, this is a perfect slice of jangly pop.
Sounds like: Kodaline, Larkins, Sea Girls, PEACE, The Beautiful South, Little Comets
Toronto vocalist/producer Tom Probizanski – aka Zanski – has an almost emo twist to his electronic take on R&B and alt-pop.
His new single ‘Consequence’ explores the theme of self-acceptance in the face of overwhelming internal struggle, a continual theme throughout his music, which varies in sound from gritty lo-fi electronica to vocal-rich, synth-heavy production, tailored with emotional lyrics and heavy themes.
Classically trained pianist Chaz Cardigan continues to pair searing self-examination with supremely catchy refrains.
His new single ‘S.O.S’ shows some serious self-awareness, as he acknowledges a tendency to self-sabotage and admits, “I’ve got a way of getting in my way“. Don’t we all!
The moniker of songwriter, singer and producer Adam Baring – Flight To Moonlight returns after a hiatus with a potent blend of genres in the form of his new single ‘Midnight’.
The fearlessly nostalgic track combines genres of disco, pop and electronica.
It’s been a minute since sweet talking CAPPA released some new music.
In keeping with CAPPA’s signature feel-good, carefree pop sound, the song chronicles the honeymoon stages of a new relationship where anything could happen and, maybe, love isn’t all that scary.
Sounds like: Lorde, Lana Del Rey, HOLYCHILD, Purity Ring, Washed Out, Say Lou Lou, The Knife, M83, KLOE, Druzy, Taylor Swift, The Knife
We do like a good festival, and after hearing that NOS Alive in Lisbon, Portugal is up there as one the world’s best music festivals, we decided to plan a trip in July to find out what all the fuss is about!
In the mean time, buckle up and check out our ones to watch within the indietronica genres (looks like we’ll mainly see you at the Sagres Stage then!).
THURSDAY 12 JULY
Friendly Fires, Sagres Stage
Energetic Brit boys Friendly Fires return to the festival circuit after a hiatus.
Having already had massive success with hits such as ‘Paris’, ‘Jump In The Pool’ and ‘Skeleton Boy’, their new single ‘Love Like Waves’ doesn’t disappoint and continues the theme of tropical-tinged synth sounds.
Expect a highly fun and bold performance at NOS Alive.
Jain is a multi-cultural singer/songwriter and self confessed beat-maker, originally from France, but who has also spent time in Dubai and The Congo.
Jain means achieving liberation of the soul, and that’s exactly what this music embodies with its flecked sounds of African rhythms with simple, yet vibrant vocals.
Watch the video for highly recognised song ‘Makeba’ below and catch Jain at the Sagres Stage on Thursday.
One artist we are super stoked to check out live is Khalid.
The American singer/songwriter originally started writing music during his college years, where he was also declared prom king. Amalgamating an array of sounds from classical, pop to hip hop, Khalid shows a real sense of urgency in his music.
We can’t get enough of his track with Billie Eilish, and can’t wait to see him perform at NOS Alive.
Sounds like: Kendrick Lamar, A$AP Rocky, Father John Misty, Frank Ocean, Chance the Rapper, Lorde, James Blake, Billie Eilish
Indie rockers Wolf Alice have been our firm favourites from the UK for some time now. They never disappoint at a live show, fronted by a fresh-faced Ellie Rowsell’s seemingly blasé but endearingly nervous attitude.
Expect a set full of their most brilliant tunes…so that’s all of them then!
Sounds like: Black Honey, Peace, Superfood, Foals, Circa Waves, Harry
Sampha is to be one of the UK’s best musical exports in 2018.
He has a knack for writing songs with deep and personal lyrics of pain and reflection, some of which have unfortunately has stemmed from health hardships suffered with his family at home, and we can’t help but think we are supporting him on this journey.
Truly thought-provoking stuff, definitely worthy of a slot at NOS Alive.
Sounds like: Jessie Ware, Frank Ocean, Solange, Moses Sumney, James Blake, Chet Faker, SBTRKT, Dallas Green
Future Islands‘ front man Samuel T Herring’s dancing is reason enough to go watch these guys at NOS Alive. And of course, the US synthpop band are wildly brilliant in as many unique, refreshing and inspiration ways possible.
Feisty feminist attitudes and catchy lyrics is what CHVRCHES brings to the table.
Lauren Mayberry has faced her fair share of trolls online, but to her testament, the Scottish trio continue to go from strength to strength. We are very much looking forward to this show!
Sounds like: Kate Boy, Avec Sans, Purity Ring, Vogue Dots, R.A.B.B.I.I., Kaleida, Gems, IYES, For Esmé, ALMA, Pale Hands, Acre Tarn, Prinze George, Leitbur, Monogem, PALMEDO, NONONO, Still Corners, MUNA
Imagine if M83 and Joanna Newsom met one day and decided to make some music. The result would be the quirky and ambient tones of Portuguese Surma (aka Débora Umbelino).
Working with loop pedals, the solo artist works with analogue and digital sounds creating a primal yet sonic environment.
Kicking off Saturday’s ones to watch are Lisbon natives, Lotus Fever.
They fit somewhere in-between Alt-J and Pink Floyd and it’s really refreshing to hear. We are expecting a super tight performance, thanks to their longstanding stint together since 2011 and it being their local city.
Their music has tendencies to sway in the 60’s, psychedelic market – imagine riding on a surfboard in space. However, we expect their set at NOS Alive to be a relaxed affair, where you can chill out and have a cider…or ride a surfboard in space, whatever takes your fancy!
Less under the radar than the counterparts in this piece, but still worthy of a slot on one’s to watch at this year’s NOS Alive. The mighty MGMT!
The eclectic US-based duo are known for their otherworldly take on modern indie rock music, often combining psychedelic synths, crunchy guitars and stodgy vocals with fun videos.
Sounds like: Empire of the Sun, Foster the People, Tame Impala, Portugal. The Man
Covering topics such as sexual abuse, suicide and alcohol abuse, Perfume Genius (aka Mike Hadreas) is one such musical role model we want to be more involved with.
His music represents such struggles and recoveries in a camp but delightfully magnificent way.
Sounds like: Sufjan Stevens, St. Vincent, Kate Bush, M83, David Bowie, Future Islands, Fever Ray
With a warming lo-fi sound, Brooklyn-based dream team, Real Estate is our last act to consider watching at NOS Alive.
Run by childhood friends who played in their backyards during the summer months, Real Estate write simple and endearing songs full of luminous guitar riffs and delicate synths.
We envisage this show to be a perfect end to a perfect weekend.
Working again with Tom Beard (who directed ‘Tinfoil Boy’), the video for his new single, ‘Power Over Men’, explores the day-to-day life of a middle-aged dominatrix.
It’s quintessentially a Jamie T song, with its sharp, witty lyrics, and subtle reggae rhythms.
‘Power Over Men’ is taken from Jamie T’s forthcoming fourth album, ‘Trick’, out on 2 September.
Tour Dates
27 Sept Olympia, Dublin
28 Sept Limelight 1, Belfast
01 Oct O2 Academy, Birmingham
02 Oct University Great Hall, Cardiff
03 Oct Guildhall, Portsmouth
05 Oct De Montfort Hall, Leicester
06 Oct Cliffs Pavilion, Southend
08 Oct Brixton Academy, London
09 Oct Brixton Academy, London
10 Oct Brixton Academy, London
12Oct 02 Academy, Bournemouth
13 Oct Olympia, Liverpool
15 Oct O2 Academy, Leeds
16 Oct O2 Academy, Newcastle
17 Oct O2 Academy, Glasgow
20 Oct O2 Apollo, Manchester
21 Oct O2 Academy, Sheffield
22 Oct Corn Exchange, Cambridge
Sounds like: The Last Shadow Puppets, Palma Violets, Peace, Jack Peñate
We declared BadSounds our new favourite band after watching them perform at The Alternative Escape in Brighton last month.
Producing some real badass sounds, the Bath five-piece fuse cheerful pop hooks, fuzzy guitar lines, and addictive choruses, bringing sounds of the 70’s and 80’s into the 90’s Brit-Pop era with a modern twist.
‘Avalanche’ has been co-produced by Duncan Mills (Peace, Spectator).
Watch the psychedelic video below:
UK Tour Dates
24 June – Glastonbury (BBC Introducing Stage)
19 July – The Social, London *
12 August – Club NME, Koko *
2 September – Festival No. 6, Portmeirion
*Headline show
Sounds like: Wolf Alice, Beach Baby, Pulp, Blur, Black Honey
The Island Club are a five-piece from Brighton, who provide uplifting indie music with quirky melodies, dreamy soundscapes and disco licks.
We had a chat with Sam from the band, just in time for this year’s The Great Escape festival in their local town of Brighton.
For those of you who don’t know you, tell us a bit more about The Island Club and how you all got into music.
We’re 5 people from separate parts of the England, brought up on different types of music, all coming together in Brighton to combine it all into a funky synth mess.
Has living in Brighton had any influence on the sunny vibe in your music?
I’m sure it has to some extent, although I think we’ve written our summeriest songs in cold times of year. It’s probably some sort of escapism.
Describe your sound in three words.
Synthy, groove-juice.
Where do you cite your musical influences from?
They’re pretty varied across the band, and we don’t want to lean on our influences too heavily. Having said that, there are some common influences that most of us share, like Tame Impala and Peace. We love big sounds and we’ve definitely been influenced by psychedelic music, but we also enjoy writing pop music, so it’s a toss-up.
You’ve received great praise from some cool blogs and radio stations. What does that feel like?
It feels great! We’re really proud of what we make, so it’s really nice to see others enjoying it as well, especially those who are exposed to a lot of music.
We love new music at Indietronica. What new music are you listening to?
We’ve all been listening to different things, but we’ll just list some of them out:
Bibio’s new album “A Mineral Love” Mura Masa’s new single “What If I go?” Kllo have a single out from an upcoming EP called “Bollide” Methyl Ethel’s awesome album “Oh Inhuman Spectacle”
The new The 1975 album
The boys will be playing The Hope & Ruin as part of TGE, today at 2:30pm – 3:00pm.
Sounds like: TOWER, Great Good Fine Ok, Youth Club, Olly Murs
Brighton teen quartet High Tyde have shared their new single, ‘Do What You Want’.
They are not just another indie pop act. No. For a start, they’re only 18! Secondly, they write bold songs about youth culture full of decent lyrics and catchy bridges. Thirdly, we like them.
Tour Dates:
23/11/15 – Birmingham, Sunflower Lounge
24/11/15 – Manchester, Fallow Café
25/11/15 – Leeds, Brudenell Games Room
26/11/15 – London, Barfly
2/12/15 – Brighton, Green Door Store
Sounds like: Arctic Monkeys, Two Door Cinema Club, Young Kato, The 1975, Peace, Little Comets, Bad Suns, Youth Club, SKIES
