Browsing Tag

Indie

Shashaa Tirupati turned off the gaslight anthem and played her own indietronica masterpiece, ‘All About You’

Posted on 23 January 2024

Shashaa Tirupati has unveiled an installation of hypnotic indietronica that instantaneously seduces you into its gravity.  In the same way a narcissist’s magnetism is irresistible, the world-renowned singer-songwriter pulls you into her artfully beguiling exposition of the sanity-smothering experience of dealing with narcissism after being lured in by a gaslighting lothario.

Shashaa Tirupati’s aura in All About You is intoxicating in the same vein as Warpaint, Still Corners, and Widowspeak. Every vocal harmony and instrumental melody finds a new facet of your soul to stir as the demure vocal performance fights fire with avant-garde glamour.

The artist’s journey, from a multilingual playback singer to an independent music maven, is reflected in the intricate layers of this track. Trained in various Hindustani classical styles and proficient in over a dozen languages, Shashaa’s musical prowess is evident in every note. After following her passion, she broke into the industry under the mentorship of the legendary A. R. Rahman. This collaboration marked the beginning of a series of successful projects, including the National Film Award-winning “Vaan” from ‘Kaatru Veliyidai’.

All About You is a reflection of Shashaa Tirupati’s artistic evolution and her commitment to exploring new musical territories. With her roots in classical music and wings in the indie scene, Shashaa stands out as a multifaceted artist, continually pushing the boundaries of her craft. This track is a clear indication that her journey in music is one of constant innovation and heartfelt expression. With 9 million monthly fans on Spotify backing her, she’s an unreckonable force in the music industry.

All About You was officially released on January 19; stream the single on Spotify.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

Find out why the city never sleeps in snailosaur’s indie rock vignette, Apartment Boxes (nyc poem)

Posted on 18 January 2024

Forget what you know about New York from the over-romanticised depictions and acquaint yourself with the true nature of the cityscape, which juxtaposes grit and grime with the monolithic architecture and the egregious egos of Wall Street wolves. snailosaur’s standout single, ‘Apartment Boxes (nyc poem)’, taken from their indie rock LP, Talk Therapy, paints a fond vignette of the infamous city over the luminous tonality of their angular guitar lines, which weave elements of new wave into the nostalgia-kissed release.

While the upbeat melodies embed the single with a light and dreamy air as they cruise through the Pavement-esque progressions, the vocals act in contrast with their nonchalant drawls, adding depth to the track as they allude to the sins and cultural salvation of the city that never sleeps – and now, thanks to snailosaur, we know why; the working class are confined to coffins as they live and breathe. Yet, suffocation is a small price to pay to walk the streets that become portals in time, if you know which avenues to take.

Apartment Boxes (nyc poem) is now available to stream on Spotify.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

Casino Moon boiled the human experience down to birth, sex, and death in their indie folk-rock revelation, Fearless

Posted on 15 January 2024

Casino Moon, the South London-based Americana folk-rock ensemble, has distilled the essence of the human experience into their latest single, ‘Fearless’, which unravels as a journey through life’s most primal elements – birth, sex, and death – wrapped in a melody that’s as infectious as it is profound.

‘Fearless’ grips you with its upbeat folk instrumental arrangement, setting the stage for a musical expedition that’s both exhilarating and introspective. The chorus bursts forth with a fearless tenacity, its lively rhythm a stark contrast to the more contemplative alt-indie verses that invite you to delve deeper into the song’s candid narrative.

Casino Moon’s cultivated sound, recognised by icons like Tom Robinson and Robert Smith, shines through in ‘Fearless’. The band’s talent for transforming untold stories into addictive sounds is evident in every chord, lyric and harmony. The vocals seamlessly switch up in energy, mirroring the dynamism of the instrumentals. From the resonant vibrato in the lower registers to the fervour and zeal in the soul-augmented choruses, the vocal performance is a masterclass in raw, unadulterated emotion.

Consider ‘Fearless’ a blueprint for living life with unbridled passion; the crescendos and echoes of evocative wisdom fuel the listener with invincibility. As Casino Moon continues to garner acclaim, with standout performances at festivals and alongside notable artists, ‘Fearless’ stands as a testament to their burgeoning legacy.

Stream Fearless as part of Casino Moon’s Woody Bay EP on Spotify now.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

Giant Killers delivered fatalistically sweet indie jangle pop blows in their alt-90s time capsule, Around the Blocks

Posted on 15 January 2024
Songs for the Small Places by Giant Killers

Tracks originally written and recorded in 1995 by Brighton’s Giant Killers when they were signed to MCA Records have finally reached the airwaves. The standout indie jangle pop single, Around the Blocks, from their forthcoming LP, is an authentically nostalgic dream. With hints of Coffee and TV within the R.E.M.-esque college radio rock production, which sees the choruses endlessly ascend and the verses pull you in deeper through the affectionately sharp hooks, Around the Blocks is a tonic for the melancholic soul.

With a frenetic closing sonic chapter which echoes the palpitating pacing of the hit Brimful of Asha, Giant Killers clearly know how to make an ever-lasting impression with their sound, which doesn’t go as far as sticky-sweet; there’s far too much indie rock renegade grit within their compassionately confrontational lyricism.

With their ‘songs for the small places’ LP, Giant Killers aren’t only delivering melodic salvation to the ennui-inclined. £2 of every sale of the LP will be donated to Campaign Against Living Miserably, a charity dedicated to saving lives through suicide prevention. Given the gravitas of Around the Blocks, which will see your soul sweep higher than the transcendentally tight melodies, you shouldn’t need any additional incentive to partake in the nostalgically euphonic bliss. But it’s incredible to see an artist not solely skating by on the signals of their virtue. Giant Killers are putting momentum behind real tangible change.

Hear Around the Blocks on Bandcamp.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

Juniper Avenue created a seismic shift in the alt-rock landscape with their upcoming single, Lavender

Posted on 10 January 2024

If grunge ever had a clandestine rendezvous with garage rock, resulting in an offspring raised on a diet of 00s indie and the timeless essence of classic rock, then that progeny would undeniably share the same sonic DNA and unyielding spirit as “Lavender,” the latest single from North Carolina’s tempestuous pathfinders, Juniper Avenue.

This trio has already carved a niche in the hearts of their fans with their eponymous debut LP and the follow-up, “Chuck Rock.” Now, they’ve managed to encapsulate the raw, unfiltered essence of their live performances into this studio release. It’s a feat akin to capturing lightning in a bottle, with their overdriven, alchemic sound engineering transporting listeners straight to the front row of an electrifying gig.

In an era where even the most discerning music fans, those who tirelessly delve into the indie scene’s depths, find themselves craving originality, Juniper Avenue burst onto the stage with a sound revolutionary enough to ignite a new wave in the music scene. Lavender is for anyone yearning for a sound that breaks the mould, offering a fresh perspective in a landscape often plagued by the mundane.

Lavender is due for release on July 14; until then, check out their earlier releases, including the viral hit, Judy Byrd, on Spotify.

To stay up to date with the latest releases from Juniper Avenue, follow the band on Instagram.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

AFTERDRIVE augmented introspection in their curve-transcending indie pop-rock hit, Stick Around

Posted on 6 January 2024

If you’re a sucker for catchy indie pop-rock hooks, evocatively sonorous vocal versatility, and complex layered arrangements, you’re going to want to save a space for the UK’s hottest breakthrough artist, AFTERDRIVE, on your radar. Their standout single, Stick Around, which augments melancholic introspection to anthemic stadium-filling levels, is a testament to the outfit’s ability to craft music with swathes of cross-over appeal.

Opening with choral, reverb-drenched guitar lines that hark back to the dreamy soundscapes of Slowdive, Stick Around immediately sets a tone of profound contemplation. This serene beginning soon gives way to a burst of energy as the song transitions into an electrifying chorus.

With the vocal performance bearing resemblance to the impassioned earnestness of Matty Healy, the single comes charged with emotional depth, which gives even more power to the uplifting and poignant melodies. Even though their music is perfect for live performances where their energy and charisma shine the brightest, Stick Around has all the makings of a playlist staple.

With over 30 gigs in 2023 and a growing presence in the festival circuit, AFTERDRIVE is clearly on an upward trajectory. Their music, as Connor Bennett of BBC aptly put it, is the start of something big. For those who yearn for music that combines the best of indie pop and rock, look no further than AFTERDRIVE’s latest offering.

Stick Around is available to stream on Spotify and all major streaming platforms.

Keep up to date with the latest releases from AFTERDRIVE via Facebook & Instagram.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

Aegra prescribed synth-woven solace in her latest release, Six Hands

Posted on 2 January 2024

‘Six Hands’ from Aegra’s double A-side release is an echo chamber of the past blending with contemporary indie fervour. The sublime fusion of new wave indie and the timelessness of synthpop is reminiscent of Policia, Crystal Castles, and Warpaint, with plenty of room for Aegra’s sonic signature to scribe through the mellifluous progressions.

The track is built on a foundation of robust electronic basslines and the rhythmic pulse of choppy indie guitars, creating a backdrop that is both invigorating and grounding. The production of Six Hands is a masterclass in balance and subtlety. Ethereal reverb wraps around each note and each beat to create an atmosphere that is both intimate and invigorating.

At the heart of this sonic odyssey is Aegra’s vocal prowess. Her voice, airy and consoling, weaves through the melodies, offering comfort and a sense of deep, introspective contemplation. The mantra “everything will be just fine” resounds as an emotional anchor, a soothing reassurance amidst the whirlwind of melodies and harmonies.

Aegra’s journey – from being burnt by the industry to finding solace in a ‘real’ job, and then back to the arms of music – resonates in every note. This isn’t just a comeback. It’s a reawakening and a testament to the enduring power of music as a companion, a healer, and a muse.

From the Inside/Six Hands was officially released on December 22. Stream it on Spotify.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

Tyler Street’s latest indie-folk confession, ‘Faith, Wisdom, You’, is spiritual poetry in melodic motion

Posted on 31 December 2023

Candid, confessional, and captivating in equal measure, the latest single, Faith, Wisdom, You, from the Dallas-born, Napa-based singer-songwriter Tyler Street is poetry in melodic motion.

After the raw yet euphonic timbre of the acoustic guitar strings, the up-and-coming luminary cuts straight to the crux of the lyrical essence of the single, which resonantly explores a melancholic exposition of an inability to control the tides of emotion. The gentle vocal performance provides a scintillating juxtaposition to the lyricism, which carries the admission of uncontrollable anger.

With hints of Frightened Rabbit and The National within the indie folk production fused with the soulful warmth of Jack Johnson and the emotional intimacy of Elliott Smith, Tyler Street cultivated his sonic style to complement his soulful aura, which echoes the self-awareness and mindfulness inspired by his spiritual awakening. Take notes of the Eckhart Tolle-esque introspection while losing yourself in the transcendence of the guitar notes as they’re artistically amplified by the presence of chamber strings.

Faith, Wisdom, You was officially released on December 21. Stream the single on Spotify.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

Succumb to the sonorous resonance in Sophie Lilah’s latest indie dream pop single, Hazy

Posted on 29 December 2023

Sophie Lilah’s latest single, Hazy, took a few leaves from the songwriting books of Big Thief and Angel Olsen but left plenty of room for her own dreamy indie pop innovation by crafting a soundscape that entwines the ethereal with profoundly grounding magnetism as the lyrics traverse stratospheres of emotion and experience.

The song is a breath-taking ode to its title, sweeping listeners up in melodiously airy tides that reveal new depths with each listen. It’s a dreamscape that keeps giving, a testament to Lilah’s ingenuity and ability to create music that resonates on multiple levels.

There’s something so seductive about surrendering to the soul in the melodies that have been polished to indie pop perfection and strike a delicate balance between accessibility and depth in the ambience which alchemically becomes intimately expansive. The themes of longing, boredom, guilt over laziness, and everyday maladies are handled with a deft touch, offering resonance and relatable catharsis in no short measure. Her lyrics transcend language to open windows to her vulnerable yet juxtaposing empowered soul. We can’t rate Sophie Lilah highly enough. Get her on your radar and anticipate her next ahead of the curve move.

Hazy was officially released with the B-side single, Take Back the Power, on December 19. Stream it on Spotify.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

Take an indietronica trip between dreams and reality with Jespfur’s latest single, strapped

Posted on 27 December 2023

Jespfur’s latest single, strapped, is a mesmerising journey through a soundscape that defies the ordinary by sonically blurring the lines between consciousness and the ethereal realms of dreams. Jespfur, known for his unpredictable musical trajectory, has once again surpassed expectations, delivering a piece that resonates with the innovative spirit of Jaws, Peace, and M83, yet stands in a league of its own.

Strapped is an intricate amalgam of indietronica, grunge, new wave, and dream pop. Each layer is meticulously woven, creating a rich texture that envelops the listener. The track begins with a subtle grungy guitar rhythm that gradually builds into a crescendo of lush, dreamy tonal beguile. Jespfur’s genius lies in his ability to marry these diverse genres into a harmonious blend, making Strapped a testament to his artistic versatility.

The song’s brilliance is further amplified by its ability to evoke synesthesia. As the melodies unfold, they paint vibrant colours across the mind’s canvas. This tonal sublimity is Jespfur’s signature, a unique quality that makes his music resonate on a deeper, more visceral level.

With Strapped, Jespfur continues to redefine the boundaries of modern music. His fearless exploration of sound and texture makes each release a revelation. As we eagerly await Jespfur’s next creation, strapped emits a signal of his limitless potential. Prepare to be transported to a world where dreams and reality converge in a symphony of sound.

Stream the official music video for strapped on YouTube.

Review by Amelia Vandergast