Indie Kids: Vorsen, Samuel Blaney, Tycho Jones, Joel Porter, Cate Tomlinson, benison, Louie Rubio

Our Indie Kids playlist celebrates everything on the indie spectrum, whether that’s rock, folk or pop, because we firmly believe in taking a little walk off the beaten track every once in a while.


Leading the way for this Indie Kids playlist is Vorsen, aka Norwegian-British songwriter and producer Oliver Halvorsen, with his latest single ‘Evil’. With a provocative titled, this song illuminates a playful escapade into willful ignorance, encapsulating the desire to shield oneself from life’s harsh realities. It emits a shimmering radiance that juxtaposes the weight of its theme. With the backdrop of his East London dwelling, Oliver wrote, performed, and produced “Evil,” crafting an intimate musical haven. The enchanting addition of Camilla Stavely-Taylor’s (The Staves) backing vocals enhances the song’s charm. As the lead single from his upcoming EP, ‘Evil; marks an exciting prelude to Vorsen’s forthcoming musical journey.

Follow Vorsen on Instagram.


Next up we have the return of London’s Tycho Jones who has struck gold once again with ‘Missing in Action’. A gem from his brand new Negative Space EP, this track masterfully blends heartfelt lyrics with infectious melodies. Jones weaves introspective thoughts into extroverted alt-pop, creating an intoxicating blend. The song delves into post-pandemic relationship complexities, a universal theme. With sold-out London shows and a resonant sound, Tycho Jones is one of those names to keep at the top of your list, as they’ll be on everyone else’s soon enough.

Follow Tycho Jones on Instagram.


Introducing Samuel Blaney with his debut single ‘Ember’, a release that ignites emotions with easeful care. It radiates a delicate acoustic sound that encapsulates his bond with nature. The wistful recording and spontaneous lyrics evoke vulnerability and connection. Blaney’s West of Ireland roots infuse his music with authenticity, as he crafts tender love songs intertwined with the world around him. The track is a promising glimpse into his journey as an indie folk artist. With ‘Ember’, Blaney lights a fire that resonates with listeners, inviting them to explore the beauty of life’s natural tapestry.

Follow Samuel Blaney on Instagram.


‘In My Own Time’ is a poignant anthem that dismantles the facade of comparison, urging us to embrace our authentic selves from promising talent Joel Porter. The song’s eloquent lyrics, paired with Porter’s emotive vocals, create an intimate atmosphere that resonates with raw honesty. Produced by Eric Hillman (Foreign Fields) and finely mixed by Zach Hanson (Bon Iver, Gordi), the track is a sonic masterpiece. Its soul-stirring message is an anthem for self-acceptance, offering a refuge from the pressures of conforming to societal standards. ‘In My Own Time’ invites listeners to discard masks and embrace their unique essence, beautifully showcasing Joel Porter’s talent for introspective storytelling.

Follow Joel Porter on Instagram.


A singer, songwriter, and performer hailing from San Francisco, Cate Tomlinson is poised to dazzle with her upcoming EP’s title track, ‘Blueberry Season’. The song is a testament to this 22-year-old artist’s unique fusion of pop, soul, and rock’n’roll influences. The track evolves from a tender ballad into a resounding anthem of empowerment, mirroring Cate’s journey of transformation and growth. With a lyrical finesse that employs metaphors to convey both the changing of seasons and the shifts in her personal journey, ‘Blueberry Season’ captures the essence of bittersweet farewells and new beginnings. Now based in Los Angeles, Cate Tomlinson is proving to be a rising star, skillfully crafting a musical narrative that resonates with listeners, painting her emotions with vibrant melodies and poignant lyrics.

Follow Cate Tomlinson on Instagram.


At just 17-years-old, benison emerges as a musical revelation from southern Western Australia with his debut single ‘Losing Sleep’. This indie emo-pop gem, born from an unplanned recording session at 4 in the morning, showcases a depth of emotion and musicality that belies his age. Themes of heartbreak and introspection are woven into his lyrics with a sophistication beyond his years. Drawing inspiration from the likes of Dominic Fike and Iann Dior, benison’s sound resonates with raw passion and authenticity. With accolades from Triple J Unearthed before its release, ‘Losing Sleep’ is a compelling preview of benison’s bright future in music.

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Closing out our Indie Kids playlist in style in Louie Rubio’s with his vibrant new single ‘Find Your Light’. With a sardonic opening line that immediately pulls listeners into its world, the track’s fusion of ’60s Fender Bass, ’80s indie nuances and West African Crelicam acoustic guitar creates a unique sonic landscape that evolves seamlessly. With introspective lyrics, the song captures the protagonist’s escape from the shackles of societal expectations, while a harmonious blend of instruments gracefully concludes the journey. Louie’s DIY ethos shines through in his solo writing, recording, and mixing efforts. ‘Find Your Light’ is a distinctive musical concoction that combines familiar influences with fresh perspectives.

Follow Louie Rubio on Instagram.


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