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.
Hailing from Saskatchewan, Marissa Burwell has firmly carved her indie niche and she’s the perfect candidate for opening this Indie Kids playlist. She’s embraced global stages, performing from NYC’s New Colossus Festival to Toronto’s Elmocambo, with an upcoming appearance at Reeper Bahn Festival. Now, she’s preparing the release of her upcoming EP, from which we’re hearin new single ‘Coward’ part of an EP. It’s a showcase of her tender vocals amidst shimmering synths and electric guitar riffs. The chorus, “I’m a coward can’t say what I want,” lays bare raw introspection, depicting vulnerability with brutal honesty. Produced by Chris Dimas, the track merges emotional depth with indie rock sensibilities, revealing Burwell’s unfiltered authenticity.
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Next up we have Timothy Robert Graham’s single ‘Get Me Out Of Here’, an upbeat track about the collective longing for escape and adventure in a post-pandemic world. Part of his new EP, Could be Worse, this track carries the weight of the pandemic’s monotony while offering a glimmer of hope through its lighthearted, satirical tone. Graham’s lyrics touch on the need for healthy coping mechanisms, reminding listeners of the joy in outdoor experiences and creativity. The song’s upbeat tempo mirrors the newfound energy of breaking free from confinement. With its relatable sentiments and catchy melody, ‘Get Me Out Of Here’ captures a universal desire for renewal and connection.
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Formed in 2017 and hailing from Madon, Latvian indie-rock ensemble Sub Scriptum introduces their latest track ‘Sweet Screens’. Lead singer Kristers Rudzītis delves into the allure of virtual reality in this English-language single. Exploring the transformative power of screens, Rudzītis notes how they enable us to become anything we desire yet often lead us away from our true selves. Delivering a refreshing blend of alternative and indie rock, their energetic performances and dynamic music have captivated audiences well beyond their home country.
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Indie-rock quartet The Slates unveil their empowering anthem ‘What Have You Done?’ With frontman Louis Barnes, guitarist Joe Briggs, bassist Jude Wales, and drummer Zak Oldroyd, this Yorkshire band’s passion for songwriting and energetic performances shines. The track delves into personal growth and the aftermath of relationships, reflecting on their impact on identity. The band’s sentiment echoes through the song’s electrifying melodies and introspective lyrics. Expressing their evolution and commitment to meaningful messages, The Slates deliver a resonating offering that captures the essence of self-discovery and authenticity, poised to resonate with a wide audience.
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Dream-pop duo The Dream Eaters, comprising Elizabeth LeBaron and Jake Zavracky, presents their late-summer soft-rock gem ‘Lost in Time’. Originating as “Jake and Elizabeth” in 2015, the duo’s journey began while working at a Brooklyn bar, leading to a series of dreamy EPs. Their latest single encapsulates a Seals-and-Crofts-esque ambiance, inviting listeners to envision a rosé-soaked float down the Seine in jean shorts. The inclusion of Fernando Casanova’s verse adds a beautiful Spanish touch, enhancing the track’s dreamlike allure. ‘Lost in Time’ showcases The Dream Eaters’ talent for crafting immersive soundscapes that transport listeners to a sun-soaked, nostalgic escape.
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Gold Lake, the Madrid-born and Brooklyn-based duo, unveils their mesmerizing single ‘Traveller’, the second offering from their album Weightless. Co-produced by Aaron Dessner (The National) and Chris Taylor (Grizzly Bear), the track’s hypnotic pull, guided by its piano-driven melody, encapsulates the essence of journeying. Delicately balancing industrial tones with New Wave-inspired choruses, the song evokes a sense of hope and forward momentum. The accompanying video serves as a diary, chronicling Gold Lake’s musical odyssey and life’s experiences, echoing the song’s thematic exploration of seeking new horizons. ‘Traveller’ resonates as an atmospheric, sonic dream, inviting listeners to venture into its captivating soundscapes.
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Newcastle’s musical force Rum Jungle unleashes their fiery track ‘Dash Of Speed’ exuding the same untamed energy that ignites their live shows. From the drums’ first thud to the final guitar riff, the song refuses to be ignored. The spirited chorus, destined to linger in your mind, captures the band’s live intensity. Benny, the band’s voice, shares how the song’s concept emerged, a testament to unbridled fun and seizing life’s wild moments. Balancing their live vigor with emotional depth, Rum Jungle’s reputation is solidified. The B-side ‘Echelon’ adds soulful contrast, showing a multi-dimensional range that elevates Rum Jungle’s musical prowess.
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Small Million’s single ‘Old Habits’ is a poignant blend of indie pop introspection and raw rock energy. The Portland-based duo turned quartet, comprising Ryan Linder, Malachi Graham, Ben Tyler, and Kale Chesney, crafts an intimate yet powerful sonic landscape. The song delves into the dynamics of early-adulthood friendships, capturing the essence of supporting each other through life’s trials and tribulations. With a decade-long collaboration under their belt and previous successes like ‘Young Fools EP,’ Small Million’s evolution shines through. ‘Old Habits’ invites listeners to reflect, dance, and resonate with the unvarnished beauty of growing up together.
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With bigger releases on the horizon, Pluto Saffron’s debut single ‘Clouds’ resonates as a powerful testament to transformation and resilience. Under the solo moniker, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Rob Banks unearths his most vulnerable self. The track’s emotional depth reflects Banks’ journey from a tumultuous past to a hopeful present. Through poignant lyrics and a melodic progression that traverses sorrow and joy, ‘Clouds’ captures the essence of life’s fragile yet resilient nature. A masterful blend of raw honesty and musical prowess, the song is a fitting introduction to Pluto Saffron’s upcoming album.
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Lifted from A Story Told’s upcoming album Mundane Magic, the track ‘My Place’ encapsulates a pivotal moment of transformation. With a blend of pop and rock elements, the trio delivers an energetic yet introspective soundscape as a powerful anthem of self-discovery and empowerment. ‘My Place’ narrates the journey toward inner well-being, shedding distractions and negativity to make room for meaningful connections and experiences. A testament to growth and embracing positivity, the song’s catchy melodies and heartfelt lyrics offer a relatable and inspiring narrative. A Story Told continues to craft music that speaks to the essence of personal evolution.
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In his EP, A Long Talk @ Taylor’s, alt-pop artist nodisco. (aka Chris Toufexis) delivers a vibrant blend of bright pop production and nostalgic lyricism. The title-track dances with a bouncing rhythm, complemented by Toufexis’ relatable storytelling. With hand-drawn illustrations accompanying a short story, the EP offers a multi-dimensional experience. ‘A Long Talk @ Taylor’s’ narrates an unexpected and profound connection that unfolds after a chance meeting at a party, evoking emotions that resonate with listeners. Toufexis’ ambition shines through this record, crafting a world where story and music harmonize, resulting in a captivating and heartfelt musical journey.
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Preston Lee Cook’s ‘Gentleman’ is a musical journey driven by the interplay of guitar lines, setting the rhythmic pace and intensity. The bass work showcases impressive skill, and the drums establish a sturdy foundation. Cook’s vocals add an intense layer, infusing the track with a commanding rock resonance that seamlessly merges classic and contemporary influences. Drawing inspiration from artists like Howlin’ Wolf and Bruno Mars, his singing blends seamlessly with the aggressive guitar style reminiscent of Angus Young and Randy Rhoads. ‘Gentleman’ is a testament to Cook’s diverse influences, resulting in a dynamic composition that captivates with its melodic fervor and rock-solid foundation.
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Navigates the yearning for serenity amidst life’s chaos, Sarpa Salpa release new song ‘Simple Pleasures’. The track’s vibrant guitar hooks, ’90s-infused synths, and rhythm section that’s tighter than glue offer a sonic escape. The song delves into the universal desire for contentment that always seems just out of grasp. Following their electric UK tour supporting Electric Six, this release sets the stage for their forthcoming EP. The single’s relatability is reflective of Sarpa Salpa’s adept ability to capture life’s complexities through their indie sound.
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PURPLE MELON 