Indie Pop Artists You Need to Be Listening to Right Now
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Looking for some new music to add to your playlist? Check out these five up-and-coming indie pop artists that are sure to make a splash in the coming year.
Who are they?
The artists on this list are making music that’s fresh, exciting, and just plain fun. If you’re not already listening to them, you need to start now. You won’t be disappointed.
Hailing from the UK
Indie pop artists are making waves all over the world, and there is a growing contingent hailing from the UK. If you’re looking for new music to explore, check out these talented acts.
-The 1975: This band has been topping charts since their debut album in 2013. The youthful energy and distinctive sound of frontman Matthew Healy have won them a devoted following.
-CHVRCHES: Hailing from Glasgow, this synth-pop trio has been wowing audiences with their ethereal sound since 2012. Caroline Polachek of Chairlift fame is a big fan.
-Dua Lipa: One of the biggest breakout stars of 2017, Dua Lipa is a pop powerhouse with a unique style all her own. Her self-titled debut album was nominated for a Grammy.
-Years & Years: This band’s soulful pop has won them widespread acclaim since they formed in 2010. Their 2016 album “Communion” went to Number 1 in the UK.
A mix of male and female vocalists
There’s just something about male and female vocalists coming together that creates music magic. It’s the perfect blend of harmonies, with each voice complementing the other perfectly. From duos like Simon & Garfunkel and John Lennon & Paul McCartney, to bands like Fleetwood Mac and The Beach Boys, some of the greatest music ever made has been created by men and women working together.
In the world of indie pop, there are plenty of talented male and female vocalists making beautiful music together. If you’re looking for some new artists to add to your playlist, here are 10 of the best male/female indie pop duos and bands you need to be listening to right now.
1. She & Him
2. Finn brothers
3. The Paper Kites
4. Air France
5. Tennis
6. Mazzy Star
7. Sydney Wayser
8. The Civil Wars
9. Lucius
10. Sea Wolf
What do they sound like?
A mix of acoustic and electronic sounds
Acoustic and electronic sounds might seem like they would clash, but when done right, they can create a beautiful and unique sound. Here are some indie pop artists who are doing it right.
Haux is an American singer-songwriter who is known for his use of both acoustic and electronic sounds in his music. Haux’s debut album, Woodland Echoes, was released in 2017 to critical acclaim.
Another artist who combines acoustic and electronic sounds is Bear’s Den. This British folk rock band is known for their use of both acoustic guitars and synthesisers in their music. Bear’s Den’s third album, Red Earth & Pouring Rain, was released in 2016 to critical acclaim.
Finally, we have The Paper Kites. This Australian indie folk band is known for their use of both acoustic guitars and keyboards in their music. The Paper Kites’ second album, twelvefour, was released in 2015 to critical acclaim.
A mix of organic and synthetic instrumentation
On the heels of summer comes a fresh crop of music to fill our autumn days. These five artists have been on our radar for a while, and we think it’s about time you gave them a listen, too.
1. Hovvdy
If you’re looking for an easy introduction to the world of indie pop, look no further than Hovvdy. The Austin-based duo creates atmospheric, reverb-drenched soundscapes using a mix of organic and synthetic instrumentation. Their songs are mellow and introspective, perfect for rainy days and long drives.
2. Japanese Breakfast
Japanese Breakfast is the solo project of Michelle Zauner, best known as the frontwoman of indie rock band Little Big League. Zauner’s solo work is radically different from her previous band’s output, leaning more towards synth-pop and dream pop territory. Her debut album, Psychopomp, was one of our favorite records of 2016, and we’re excited to see what she comes up with next.
3. Bayonne
Bayonne is the project of Austin-based musician Roger Sellers. His music draws equally from folk, electronic, and pop influences, resulting in a sound that is both unique and immediately accessible. Bayonne’s live shows are particularly special; Sellers is known for his use of loop pedals and other live effects, creating an immersive experience that is not to be missed.
4. Methyl Ethel
Methyl Ethel is the brainchild of Australian musician Jake Webb. Webb’s songs are complex but catchy, seamlessly blending elements of pop, shoegaze, and psych rock into something completely new. If you’re looking for something a little weird but also extraordinarily beautiful, Methyl Ethel is definitely worth checking out.
5. Frankie Cosmos
Frankie Cosmos is the stage name of New York-based musician Greta Kline. Kline first gained attention with her lo-fi bedroom recordings, which were relatable and intimate in a way that few other artists have been able to capture since early DIY pioneers like Pavement and Guided by Voices. Her latest album,, Vessel ,is her most polished work to date, but retains all the charm and immediacy of her earlier material..
Why should you listen to them?
Pop music has always been a genre that is constantly changing and evolving. Every few years, a new sound or artist comes along and shakes things up. Right now, the sound of indie pop is taking over the airwaves. But what is it about this genre that is so special? And why should you be listening to it?
They’re unique
What defines “indie pop” has become increasingly difficult to parse in recent years, as the genre has welcomed an influx of artists from a wide variety of backgrounds and sonic palettes. But if there’s one thing that all the artists on this list have in common, it’s that they’re each distinguished by a unique voice and perspective that sets them apart from the pack.
So whether you’re in the mood for an ethereal singer/songwriter, a synth-pop provocateur, or an alt-R&B trailblazer, we’ve got you covered with our roundup of the best new indie pop artists you need to be listening to right now.
They’re catchy
If you’re not familiar with the genre, indie pop can be a little difficult to define. It’s generally considered to be a subgenre of alternative rock, but it often incorporates elements of other genres like synth-pop, power pop, dream pop, and even hip-hop. The one constant is that indie pop artists write catchy hooks and melodies that are impossible to get out of your head.
If you’re looking for a new artist to add to your rotation, here are five indie pop artists you need to be listening to right now.
1. LANY
2. The 1975
3. Migos
4. Cardi B
5. BROCKHAMPTON
They’re relatable
Indie pop is a genre of alternative rock music that originated in the United Kingdom in the mid-1970s. Unlike most genres, which are defined by specific musical traits, indie pop is defined more by its cultural context and its perception by the public. This can make it hard to pin down exactly what classifies as indie pop, but there are a few general characteristics that are usually present in most indie pop music.
One of the defining features of indie pop is its focus on songwriting and melodies over instrumentation and production values. This means that indie pop songs often have very catchy, sing-along hooks and are usually fairly stripped-down in terms of musical arrangement. This simplicity can make indie pop songs very relatable and relatable, something that many listeners find appealing.
Another common trait of indie pop music is that it often eschews traditional gender roles in both its lyrics and its visuals. Indie pop artists often subvert traditional ideas about who can making music and what that music can sound like. This makes for a much more diverse and inclusive genre that anyone can enjoy.
If you’re looking for some new music to check out, consider giving some of these up-and-coming indie pop artists a listen. You’re sure to find something you love!
