Tag: Alternative

Posted on

“I Tried” by Lachlan

"I Tried" by Lachlan
"I Tried" by Lachlan

Artist: Lachlan

Song: I Tried

Genres: #indierock #altrock

Location: Edinburgh, Scotland

Release date: April, 2024

Comment: In August 2020, I reviewed a charming track called “LAX” by indie Scottish musician Lachlan, marking just his second release as a solo artist. Fast forward almost four years and a few singles later, Lachlan is back on T.A.M with another catchy indie rock song.

The song weaves relatable lyrics about the struggle to move on after a relationship has ended. Lachlan paints a vivid picture with lines like “Every cloud I see in a gray sky takes the form of you and I,” showcasing the constant reminders of a lost love. His voice perfectly captures the internal conflict – the desire to shield himself from memories yet being unable to escape the lingering light of the past.

On “I Tried,” Lachlan retains his signature production polish while exploring a more emotionally charged soundscape. So, put on your headphones, hit play, and prepare to be swept away by good music.

Featured on the following mixtapes:

  • Everything
  • Alternative
  • Folk/Indie

Posted on

“Circles” by The Snuts

"Circles" by The Snuts

Artist: The Snuts

Song: Circle

Genres: #indierock #altrock

Location: West Lothian, Scotland

Release date: February, 2024

Comment: The Snuts’ brand new album, Millennials, is without a doubt an early contender for album of the year. I chose “Circles” as the song to feature on this post since they’ve officially launched it as a single with its own music video (featuring Scottish actor Tony Curran). However, I could have chosen any other track, such as “Novastar“, “Millionaires”, “WGO“, or “Right Hand Girl“, and this list doesn’t even include the album’s lead single, “Gloria“. I’m telling you, the record is full of musical gems. I can’t believe I wasn’t aware of this Scottish band until this year!

If, like me, you were not familiar with The Snuts before, I can tell you that they started in 2015 while the members were still in school. The four-piece quickly gained a reputation for their high-energy live shows and infectious anthems. Their debut album, W.L., released in 2022, shot straight to number one on the UK Albums Chart, solidifying their place as a band to watch. With their sophomore album, Millennials, they are proving now that they’re far from being a one-hit wonder, as they can consistently deliver music that resonates with music fans worldwide.

Featured on the following mixtapes:

  • Everything
  • Alternative
  • Folk/Indie

Posted on

“Like a Painting” by Head Sound

"Like a Painting" by Head Sound
"Like a Painting" by Head Sound

Artist: Head Sound

Song: Like A Painting

Genres: #dreampop #shoegaze

Location: New York, United States

Influences: Slowdive, Radiohead, My Bloody Valentine

Release date: January, 2024

Comment: Memorable songs have a distinctive feature that makes them instantly recognizable. “Like a Painting” is one of such songs, and its distinctive feature is mesmerizing guitar line that hooks you from the first note. The incredible part is that this is the debut single of this fresh-faced band straight out of New York: Head Sound. Just imagine what magic they’ll create with more time playing together!

Influenced by icons like My Bloody Valentine and Slowdive, this shoegaze quartet crafts melodies that soar atop layers of lush guitars. “Like A Painting” is like their love letter to MBV, inspired by vocalist Richard’s deep dive into their music. But here’s the thing: Head Sound isn’t just about shoegaze: they also explore Americana and Experimental genres, showcasing their artistic versatility through alternate bands featuring the same members.

New Yorkers might recognize this song from local station WEXT, but the rest of us can join the party too! Listen to “Like a Painting” right here!

Featured on the following mixtapes:

  • Everything
  • Indie
  • Pop

Posted on

“One For Me” by Dea Doyle

"One For Me" by Dea Doyle
"One For Me" by Dea Doyle

Artist: Dea Doyle

Song: One For Me

Genres: #indiepop

Influences: Katy Perry

Location: London, United Kingdom

Release date: November, 2023

Comment:  Dea Doyle, a West London native, has been creating quite a buzz in the music scene with her clever lyrics and unforgettable choruses. In her latest single, “One For Me,” she showcases her talent and versatility.

“One For Me” is a delightful surprise, much like the unexpected love it narrates. The song encourages listeners to embrace spontaneity and the thrill of the unknown. With its charming blend of light-heartedness and warmth, and a catchy chorus that lingers in your mind even after the song concludes, the track undeniably makes it clear that Dea Doyle is one artist to watch.

Featured on the following mixtapes:

  • Everything
  • Pop

Posted on

“Imagine” by J. Zito

"Imagine" by J. Zito
"Imagine" by J. Zito

Artist: J. Zito

Song: Imagine

Genres: #alternativerock

Location: Detroit, United States

Release date: November, 2023

Comment: I’m going to be honest. When friend of T.A.M., J. Zito, told me that his new track was a cover of John Lennon’s “Imagine”, I didn’t think it was a great choice. Sure, it’s a sweet song with beautiful lyrics that are still sadly relevant, but it has been played and covered so many times already that I didn’t think the world needed another version of it. To put it bluntly, I was wrong. Zito, a consistent artisan of emotional expression through his music, managed to breathe new life into a song that many might argue has become lost in its own familiarity.

Describing his cover as “totally unnecessary yet needed,” J. Zito boldly asserts that the timeless message of “Imagine” is slipping through the cracks of contemporary consciousness. Departing from Lennon‘s delicate piano arrangement, Zito injects the track with a raw, visceral energy. Powerful guitars replace the spare keys, and anguished vocals convey frustration and discontent, mirroring a world that seems to have strayed far from the utopian vision of the 60s and 70s. The cover is not a mere musical homage but a call to action.

Accompanying the audacious sound is a music video that seamlessly weaves haunting imagery of modern conflict victims into a kaleidoscope of 60s-style psychedelia. This visual narrative serves as a stark reminder of the uncomfortable truth that we have drifted far from the path envisioned by Lennon. Feel free to check it out below.

Featured on the following mixtapes:

  • Everything
  • Alternative

Posted on

“Only One” by Georgia Hoareau

"Only One" by Georgia Hoareau
"Only One" by Georgia Hoareau

Artist: Georgia Hoareau

Song: Only One

Genres: #indie

Influences: Amy Winehouse, Gracie Abrams, Lizzy McAlpine

Location: Queensland, Australia

Release date: November, 2023

Comment:  Emerging from the Gold Coast, Australia, 19-year-old singer-songwriter Georgia Hoareau is a name to add to our radar. With her latest single “Only One”, released this month, it becomes obvious that Georgia knows how to craft and deliver a catchy indie tune. I think this skill is what truly sets talented artists apart from those who merely have a nice voice.

Georgia’s musical odyssey commenced with her debut single ’17’ in 2021, when she was, you guessed it, just 17 years old. Since then, she has made waves in her local scene, garnering media recognition and leaving a lasting impression with her compelling live band performances. As the young artist gears up to share more new music, her journey is undoubtedly one to watch closely.

If you like indie pop tunes with folksy vibes, ‘Only One’ will be right up your alley.

Featured on the following mixtapes:

  • Everything
  • Folk/Indie

Posted on

“Make Me Smile” by The Pulltops

"Make Me Smile" by The Pulltops

Artist: The Pulltops

Song: Make Me Smile

Genres: #indierock #altrock

Location: Milwaukee, United States

Release date: November, 2023

Comment: The Pulltops, a duo from Milwaukee, just dropped their latest song, ‘Make Me Smile,’ which reminds me quite a bit of Semisonic — never a bad thing. It captures the simple yet sweet message: “You’ll always be the one to make me smile.” Hopefully, we all have someone like that in our lives.

Mark Pierret and Tom Crowell form the core of The Pulltops. With diverse musical tastes but always rooted in classic pop and indie rock, they bring in flavors from a wide array of styles, blending it all together to make a timeless sound that goes beyond genres. “Make Me Smile” is their seventh song this year, showing they’re all about putting out music. In fact, they are planning to release a new song every six weeks for the next two years and an EP every fourth single.

“I particularly enjoy the big chorus; it has a great melody that makes you sing along in no time. Between that and the sweet lyrics, it’s hard not to enjoy “Make Me Smile.” It’s one of those songs that can lighten up your mood whenever you need it. [Insert here a cheesy pun about how this song makes you smile.]

Featured on the following mixtapes:

  • Everything
  • Alternative
  • Folk/Indie

Posted on

“Sunlight” by RHODES

"Sunlight" by RHODES

Artist: RHODES

Song: Sunlight

Genres: #indiepop

Location:  Baldock, United Kingdom

Release date: August, 2023

Comment: David Rhodes, known by his stage name RHODES (stylized in all caps), is an English singer and songwriter born in 1988 who embarked on his musical journey in 2013. He had a successful duet with Birdy and was featured on Kygo‘s debut album, “Cloud Nine“, but I don’t think he is that well-known yet. Chances are, this is the first time you’ve heard about him.

RHODES has been on my radar for a while, and he recently released a single called “Sunlight” that quickly became my favorite song of his. It’s one of those rare tracks where you might find the verses more captivating than the chorus. From the moment the first note hits, you’re drawn into a world of ethereal melodies and heartfelt lyrics that make you stop and listen. RHODES’ vocal performance is nothing short of mesmerizing. His voice, rich and emotive, carries the song, and the lyrics are relatable yet profound.

In short, I think this song shines as bright as its title suggests. Check it out!

Featured on the following mixtapes:

  • Everything
  • Pop

Posted on

“DRIVE!” by Lockyer Boys

"DRIVE!" by Lockyer Boys

Artist: Lockyer Boys

Song: DRIVE!

Genres: #altpop

Location:  Thunder Bay, Canada

Release date: November, 2023

Comment: The Lockyer Boys, a project by brothers Will and Charlie Lockyer, have released their new single, “DRIVE!”, which is now available on all streaming platforms. The song is a vibrant, fast-paced production that brilliantly highlights the duo’s invigorating and uplifting pop style. DRIVE!” revolves around seizing opportunities, conveying themes of confidence, courage, and giving one’s utmost effort.

Hailing from Thunder Bay, Canada, the Lockyer Brothers have been immersed in musical collaboration since their early years. At the youthful ages of 19 (Charlie) and 21 (Will), this multi-talented duo has accumulated substantial studio experience, and that’s evident with “DRIVE!” production-wise. Their future is bright!

Featured on the following mixtapes:

  • Everything
  • Pop

Posted on

“How to exit a room” by The Maine

"How to Exit a Room" by The Maine

Artist: The Maine

Song: How to exit a room

Genres:  #indierock #alternativerock

Location: Arizona, United States

Release date: July, 2023

Comment: The Maine, whose song “Face Towards The Sun” was featured here in July 2021, released “How to exit a room” in July this year, and it is a shining example of the band’s consistent ability to deliver fresh and engaging music. Featured on their self-titled album, this track has garnered praise from both fans and critics alike. It kicks off with an attention-grabbing rhythm and boasts introspective and relatable lyrics, tackling the universal experience of desiring an escape from a situation or place.

Musically, “How to Exit a Room” is a finely-crafted pop-rock gem that doesn’t overstay its welcome, offering a delightful listening experience with its melodic chorus and well-balanced instrumentation. The production is polished, ensuring that each element of the track shines without overshadowing the others.

Whether you’ve been a longtime fan of the band or are just discovering their music, this track is unquestionably worth a listen.

Featured on the following mixtapes:

  • Everything
  • Alternative