Picture This – Unconditional

Picture This - Unconditional

I discovered Picture This over a year ago on Youtube, where their video for the highly recommended track, “Modern Love” appeared in my feed. Since then, I have closely followed this Irish band known for their catchy alternative pop-rock songs. They have been incredibly prolific, releasing 1 EP, 2 studio albums, and over 20 singles since their debut in 2015. Recently, Picture This unveiled their latest single, “Unconditional,” a romantic altpop song filled with infectious hooks and heartfelt lyrics that strike the perfect balance.

If you like radio-friendly songs, then you will surely enjoy this potential hit from Picture This.

Featured on the following mixtapes:

Neon Trees – Used To Like

Neon Trees

Unfortunately, I don’t have much time to write anything today, so this entry will be an easy and short one. Neon Trees released a new album last week, I Can Feel You Forgetting Me, and even though its lead single debuted much earlier this year, I still think it’s the best track in the album. The band had a few hits in the early 2010s, like Animal, but hadn’t released any new material in 5 years. They came back with their trademark alt-pop sound but with a bigger 80s influence. Used to Like is a perfect example of that. Enjoy!

Featured on the following mixtapes:

Oh Wonder – Don’t You Worry

Don't You Worry by Oh Wonder

I enjoy writing about new, up-and-coming, and unsigned artists because they often need the support the most. It’s rewarding to help them from this humble platform. At the same time, I like to mix in new music from more well-known artists. Firstly, not everyone may be aware of them; secondly, you might not know they have new music out; and lastly, to avoid predictability. After featuring lesser-known acts for several days, it’s time to talk about Oh Wonder‘s beautiful new song: “Don’t You Worry”..

The British duo, who are also a couple, may not be household names yet, but with over 7 million monthly listeners on Spotify, chances are you already know them. In case you don’t, this alt-pop act started in 2014, recording and releasing one song a month for a year, which later became their self-titled debut album. Six years later, Oh Wonder has sold out gigs in cities like London, New York, and L.A., released three full-length albums and several EPs. Their latest EP, “Home Tapes,” was recorded and released from their London home during the lockdown.

“Don’t You Worry,” part of “Home Tapes,” is a lovely indie love song about facing difficult times with your loved ones. It perfectly showcases Josephine Vander Gucht’s delicate yet beautiful voice. Give it a listen below.

Featured on the following mixtapes:

KidEyes – Ready To Go

KidEyes

I can’t recall how I discovered KidEyes, an indie/altpop duo based out of Los Angeles. It was about a month ago, possibly through Instagram, but the specifics elude me. Regardless, I’m grateful for finding them because their music is incredibly enjoyable, and today’s featured song is a perfect example.

“Ready To Go” is the band’s latest single, released in June following their self-titled debut EP from 2019. Despite addressing feelings of being lost and disoriented, it’s a captivating indie pop track that could serve as the soundtrack to our peculiar year. Give it a listen here:

Featured on the following mixtapes:

Neve – It’s Over Now

Neve - It's Over Now

I wonder what would have happened to Neve if they had released their first and only album during the social media age. In 1999, they achieved a hit single with “It’s Over Now” after it was featured on the movie soundtrack for The Faculty, reaching #30 on Billboard’s Modern Rock chart. However, due to delays in album release and poor promotion, the record didn’t perform well, leading to Neve being dropped from the label. The band disbanded in 2001, and despite hints of a reunion on their Facebook page, no concrete plans have materialized.

Neve’s self-titled album remains one of my favorites from the 2000s, filled with solid alternative rock songs and the standout track, “It’s Over Now.” If you haven’t heard this song before, you’re in for a treat; and if you have, let’s reminisce about it as this week’s Throwback Thursday, while contemplating the possibilities had they received greater support from their label and fans.

Featured on the following mixtapes:

Dysplay – Too Cool

Dysplay - Too Cool

“Too Cool” is a delightful song that got to me thanks to this music blog (I love it!). Dysplay, a band from the US active since 2017, effortlessly combines 80s pop influences with a modern sound. This track is no exception, instantly capturing my attention with its captivating guitar. The accompanying music video, available below, is impressive, showcasing that creativity can still generate great content despite current limitations and budget constraints.

Take a listen to this radio-friendly tune below and be sure to keep Dysplay on your radar. If they continue to produce songs like “Too Cool” in the future, they will undoubtedly become a staple on The Alternative Mixtapes.

Featured on the following mixtapes: