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.
Dan Croll continues to prove why he’s one of Britain’s most accomplished songwriters with ‘Most of All’, a beautifully understated reflection on the people who shape our lives more than the places we visit. Beginning with little more than voice and classical guitar, the track gradually blossoms into a rich orchestral arrangement that mirrors its growing emotional weight without ever losing its intimacy. Dan’s warm, heartfelt delivery and meticulous production make every moment feel earned, culminating in a poignant chorus that lingers long after the song ends. It’s a quietly powerful reminder that life’s greatest journeys are ultimately measured by human connection, not geography.
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Following their return with ‘Miracle’, Swiss indie-rock veterans Lovebugs deliver an explosive single with Hurry Up and Wait’. Driven by pulsating drums, irresistible hooks and crisp mixing from Grammy winner Joe Joaquin, the track bursts with euphoric momentum. Yet beneath its festival-ready surface lies a poignant core of the anxiety of constant anticipation, FOMO and the struggle to remain present. Adrian Sieber and the newly expanded quintet balance vulnerability with grand melodies, crafting an anthem that is as thought-provoking as it is catchy. ‘Hurry Up and Wait’ is a reminder to stop merely observing life and start living it.
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Cat Ryan breathe new life into their origins with ‘Free From This’, a surf-soaked indie-pop gem that feels just as fresh as it must have when it was first written. Bursting with shimmering guitars, infectious hooks and an irresistible sense of momentum, the track captures the youthful optimism that has become a defining part of the band’s sound. Despite being pulled from the vault, it never feels dated, instead serving as a confident reminder of why Cat Ryan have become such an exciting name on the UK indie circuit. Bright, punchy and effortlessly catchy, ‘Free From This’ is a fitting celebration of where it all began.
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Sweetbreads, the project of New York singer-songwriter Melody Stolpp, delivers a haunting reflection on ambition and vulnerability in her new single ‘Open Mic’. It’s the latest preview from her debut album, Punisher of Love, which pairs ethereal instrumentation with Stolpp’s hypnotic vocal delivery. Inspired by observing a friend’s struggle with addiction during a night at a dive bar open mic, the track delicately weaves indie-folk intimacy with alt-country warmth. Produced by Quinn Devlin, ‘Open Mic’ transforms shared anxiety and escapism into a deeply empathetic, unflinchingly honest portrait of human connection and artistic obsession.
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‘The House You Built’ is a beautifully understated folk ballad that finds its strength in simplicity. Framed by warm, vintage-inspired acoustic guitar and Ruby Greenberg’s soothing, heartfelt vocals, the song captures the rare comfort of feeling completely safe in another person’s love. Its Laurel Canyon influences shine through without overshadowing the sincerity at its core, creating a timeless atmosphere that invites listeners to slow down and be present. In a world that rarely pauses, ‘The House You Built’ offers a welcome moment of stillness, pairing intimate songwriting with effortless warmth to deliver a quietly moving and deeply reassuring listening experience.
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Perth six-piece Calico City unveil a fiery, carefree thrill in ‘Gotta Go’, the final single ahead of their debut EP, Second in Line. Blending sunny Australiana beach tones with a sharp alternative rock edge, the track seamlessly fuses reggae-groove verses with driving, guitar-heavy choruses. Dual vocalists Brianne Reyes and Sienna Law shine with soaring harmonies and commanding hooks, perfectly capturing the push-and-pull friction of shifting friendships. Backed by tight, raucous instrumentation and punchy drums, ‘Gotta Go’ is an explosive, infectious preview that cements Calico City as one of Australia’s most exciting up-and-coming bands to watch.
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Drawing from an emotional IVF journey, Alex Hartley’s ‘I Believe’ captures heartbreak, resilience and the hope found in rebuilding together. It transforms a deeply personal chapter of struggle into a soulful, uplifting indie-pop triumph. Alex’s piano-led arrangement blends rich jazz harmonies with polished pop instincts, creating a sound that feels both sophisticated and warmly accessible. With nods to Leon Bridges’ soulfulness and Steely Dan’s intricate musicianship, the track balances vulnerability with undeniable groove. ‘I Believe’ is a beautifully crafted reminder that even after life’s most difficult moments, love can provide the strength to find a way forward.
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‘Green and Blue’ is the second taste of Perth singer-songwriter Kim Franklin’s debut album, Jumping at Ghosts, which promises to be a deeply poignant sonic sanctuary. This piano-led folk ballad serves as a loving homage to her late friend, Julie. Written in Byron Bay, the track layers lush organ, swelling synths, and acoustic textures beneath Kim’s comforting vocal delivery. Motivated by coastal imagery, it frames emotional respite as an act of healing rather than escape. Plaintive yet profoundly comforting, ‘Green and Blue’ is a rich, nostalgic reminder to embrace stillness and find solace amid grief.
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‘House on the Hill’ is a dreamy lo-fi indie gem that turns a fleeting observation into a deeply reflective moment. Inspired by the image of a solitary house standing against a vast landscape, mariek’s song portrays feelings of distance, isolation and quiet curiosity through hazy textures and intimate songwriting. Blending elements of dream pop, shoegaze and indie rock, mariek creates an atmospheric world where every layer feels carefully considered. Her DIY approach adds to the song’s authenticity, allowing its vulnerability to shine through. ‘House on the Hill’ is a beautifully understated piece of bedroom pop that invites listeners to find meaning in stillness.
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chessclub introduce themselves with ‘Sideways’, a sun-soaked debut that captures the carefree feeling of a perfect summer evening. Blending breezy ukulele melodies, playful Casio synths and shimmering indie-pop production, the track radiates warmth, nostalgia and the excitement of a new crush. The sibling duo’s chemistry is clear, with Jacob’s effortless frontman energy complemented by Allie’s polished production and mixing. Balancing chill grooves with vibrant hooks, ‘Sideways’ feels like a road trip soundtrack made for open windows and golden-hour skies. A charming first release, it sets the stage for chessclub as an exciting new voice in feel-good alt-pop.
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PURPLE MELON 