There have been a ton of quality indie releases lately. It’s inspiring to see so much excellent music out there. Here are five of my current favorites.
I love the retro sound and look of Hazel English‘s “That Thing” video. Her double EP is one of the best releases of this year.
Canadian band Alvvays put out their wonderful sophomore album, Antisocialites, last month. I listen to it almost every day. I love the album’s mix of chill and uptempo tracks. “Dreams Tonight” is a lovely, swirling ballad and one of the best songs they have released.
Grizzly Bear‘s “Mourning Sound” is one of the harder rocking indie tracks I’ve heard in a long time. Perfect fusion of pulsing intensity and weirdness.
The new track from past interview subjectsTennis is a chill, groovy tune. The band always impresses me with their consistency and song quality.
The chill, enchanting indie harp vibes of Mary Lattimore serve as the perfect way to ease into the morning. The harpist also played one of the best opening sets I’ve seen in 2017. Her trippy, dreamy song about the convenience store Wawa, “Wawa By the Ocean,” is a highlight of her Collected Pieces album.
Los Angeles-based band MUNA recently hit the KC Live Block with a passionate set. Their album, About U, is one of my favorites of 2017. Check out this live performance of “Around U.”
Los Angeles-based band Local Natives recently played a 20-minute, impromptu acoustic set after a major rainstorm at Boulevardia 2017. In front of a crowd of about 200 people, with a minimal setup, they delivered a passionate show. Check out these live versions of the classics “Wide Eyes” and “Airplanes.”
Vertical Horizon recently hit CrossroadsKC with a set focused on their ’90s jams. I covered the show for X1051. Check out this live version of the classic “Everything You Want.”
