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.
Sea Girls return with ‘I Want You To Know Me’, a vibrant prelude to their forthcoming album Midnight Butterflies, slated for a June 14 release via Alt. Records. Co-written and produced by Dan Bryer and mixed by Matty Green, the track showcases the band’s evolution, following the acclaim of their previous releases. Midnight Butterflies promises melodic joy and pop perfection in twelve parts. With a roster of renowned producers contributing, including Kid Harpoon and Matt Schwartz, the album symbolizes the band’s artistic rejuvenation. Frontman Henry Camamile describes it as a debut record’s energetic untainted spirit, exuding optimism and euphoria. Having made their mark since 2017, Sea Girls anticipate a significant year in the dynamic realm of contemporary music.
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Cape Sleep, the musical alter ego of Dutch artist Kim Janssen, unveils the captivating single ‘I Want To Be Your Friend’, a preview of his upcoming album Video Days. The accompanying music video features the band performing amidst a pulsating light and ethereal pink fog. The debut album, set for release on February 23 via Snowstar Records, embodies the artist’s unique vocal stylings, blending deep baritone and soaring falsetto reminiscent of Paul Simon, with idiosyncratic lyrics and intricate arrangements. ‘I Want To Be Your Friend’ juxtaposes a dancey beat with nostalgic synth chords, electric guitar notes, and poignant lyrics, delivering a summer vibe infused with longing. It’s a nostalgic love letter to pop culture, weaving through various eras and genres, offering a contemplative exploration of love, friendship, and the world.
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Ramnäs collaborates once more with Soft Crystals for their third single release ‘Time’ following support from German radio stations like BR Puls, detektor.fm, and Bremen Zwei. The song delves into the dynamic of two individuals spending considerable time together yet existing in distinct realities. Matt from Soft Crystals notes the common occurrence where one perceives the relationship as happy while the other feels the opposite. ‘Time’ carries a perfect shoegaze summer dream sound, creating anticipation for the upcoming EP. With its dreamy vibes and introspective lyrics, the track captures the complexities of relationships, resonating with listeners who’ve navigated the contrasting perspectives within love.
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Portsmouth’s Kacia, the promising musician has garnered attention as “the next big thing in alt pop.” Notably featured in Wonderland magazine and playlists like New Music Daily and Pop Deluxe on Apple Music, Kacia’s music has also graced BBC Radio 1. Teaming up with producer and co-writer Matt Fisher, the duo crafted a distinctive Alt Pop sound, drawing influences from The 1975, No Rome, and Lany. Kacia’s latest single ‘Drifting Apart’ unfolds as a poignant chapter in his ‘What If Life Was A Movie’ narrative, delving into the disconsolate theme of drifting relationships. With soul-baring lyrics and a captivating alt-pop production, Kacia continues to connect with listeners through universally relatable experiences.
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Blank Cassettes, the lo-fi endeavor of singer-songwriter James Woods who hails from South Wales, unveils ‘Dating App Sadness’. He made an impact with BBC Introducing in Wales for his debut album, Terraformed Happiness, which married sun-soaked fuzzy guitars with dreamy synth-pop reverb, drawing inspiration from Tame Impala and Ariel Pink. The highly anticipated follow-up SKELETON SONGS departs from the electro-indie vibe of its predecessor, embraces a stripped-back approach reminiscent of Nebraska-era Bruce Springsteen, Elliott Smith, and The Beatles. With ‘Dating App Sadness’, Blank Cassettes navigates the anxieties of modern romance against a lo-fi surf-rock horizon, capturing the paranoia amid the left and right swipes in a sea of digital connections.
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Billboard-charting indie-pop artist Paris Paloma unveils the reflective and triumphant single ‘my mind (now)’. Delving into the experience of trauma, the song poignantly explores the aftermath of cataclysmic events on the artist’s mental state, revealing the struggle with OCD and anxiety as responses to trauma. The lyrics encapsulate the electric storm of emotions within the artist’s head, an incessant noise that she seeks respite from. ‘my mind (now)’ is a poignant embodiment of the human mind’s fragility and strength, reflecting on the power others hold to set trauma into motion. Paris Paloma channels the chaos into art and writing, creating a coping mechanism from the overwhelming noise.
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Scoobert Doobert, the internet-born multi-instrumentalist and producer-engineer from San Diego, drops his single ‘daydreaming’. Initially gaining traction touring with The Doobie Brothers and opening for Gregg Allman, the musician has produced for and collaborated with artists like Tamtam and J-pop band CHAI. His prolific output includes LPs like Big Hug and KŌAN, along with the recent album Moonlight Beach. ‘daydreaming’ reflects Scoobert Doobert’s knack for creating music that seamlessly combines comfort with contemporary freshness, exemplifying his smooth and hook-laden atmosphere. As a frequent collaborator, his upcoming remix of Rozzi and collaborations with Great Good Fine Ok hint at this creative’s continued ascent.
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Novo Amor, the musical moniker of Ali Lacey, shares his single ‘Years On’ as part of a double single release, offering a glimpse into his upcoming album Collapse List set for April 5. Based in Cardiff, the artist’s poignant soundscapes are crafted in a house that doubles as a studio, capturing ambient elements from his surroundings. Ali Lacey’s journey began as a therapeutic response to a breakup, evolving into a rich and rewarding project. ‘Years On’ reflects a shift from the quiet hope of his debut to a more immediate and optimistic sound, showcasing Novo Amor’s evolution and resilience in the ever-changing landscape of his life.
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‘Lady Luck’ marks the latest release from East London trio The Howlers, accompanied by news of their debut album, What You’ve Got to Lose to Win It All. The fifteen-track collection, produced by Black Honey, explores themes of resilience, friendship, and unconditional love in the face of unimaginable pain. Influenced by a diverse range, from Ennio Morricone’s film scores to desert blues pioneers Tinariwen, the band’s sound defies convention. The track, born from a lingering riff, found its form by merging elements from other incomplete songs. ‘Lady Luck’ stands out as a live favorite, representing The Howlers’ distinctive and evolving sound.
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Edinburgh-based brothers Dubinski’s latest single ‘New York Arizona and This’ offers insight into the trials of an independent touring band. Produced by Grammy winners Mike Horner and Robbie Nelson, the track delves into the highs and lows of a UK tour, inducing nostalgia while igniting a desire to visit Camden Town. Singer Eugene reflects on the challenges, from occasional rip-offs to indifferent audiences, capturing the essence of a DIY band striving for recognition. The chorus dreams of global success, leaving behind the local scene and proving their worth to the doubters. Dubinski, composed of Eugene, Fergus, Donal, and Eoin Gaine, showcases their energetic and authentic sound, having recently released their debut album worldwide through Gnu Roam.
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PURPLE MELON 