“Halloweekend” by Sarah Gargano

October 21, 2024October 21, 2024

“Halloweekend” by Sarah Gargano

Artist: Sarah Gargano

Song: Halloweekend

Genres: #indie

Influences: Phoebe Bridgers, boygenius

Location: Nashville, United States

Release date: October, 2024

Comment: Some songs excel at creating a ‘mood’, evoking strong emotions that are often tinged with melancholy or introspection. They set up a pensive atmosphere perfect for those rainy days or quiet nights in, and that’s exactly the case with ‘Halloweekend’ by Sarah Gargano. This talented singer-songwriter has a knack for inward-looking lyrics that resonate deeply.

Born and raised in New York City but now based in Nashville, the 26-year-old has been writing music since she was 15, and released her first EP in 2018. For ‘Halloweekend’, which came out last Friday, she drew inspiration from Phoebe Bridgers, a master of moody songs, both as a solo artist and through her work with boygenius. Sarah’s ability to craft similarly evocative and emotional music is evidence that, as a musician, she’s headed in the right direction.

Sarah Gargano is planning to make a music video too. While we wait for it, please enjoy her standout track here.

Featured on the following mixtapes:

Everything
Indie

July 31, 2024July 31, 2024

“right where you left me” by eaJ (ft. Hindia)

Artist: eaJ

Song: right where you left me

Genres: #altpop

Location: California, United States

Release date: July, 2024

Comment: Korean-American singer-songwriter eaJ, also known as Jae Park, has been making waves with his solo project. Born in Buenos Aires and raised in Cerritos, California, Jae initially gained industry attention as a YouTube musician. However, he’s best known as the former vocalist and lead guitarist of the chart-topping South Korean rock band Day6.

Celebrated Indonesian artist Hindia joins forces with eaJ on their latest single, “right where you left me.” Hindia’s production expertise and vocals blend seamlessly with Jae’s signature catchy pop melodies. The collaboration was initiated when Jae, a longtime admirer of Hindia’s work, reached out via direct message. The result? A stunning and upbeat rock-pop track whose upbeat and rocky sound contrasts with its poignant lyrics. Written from a flipped perspective, the track portrays someone waiting for a loved one to return from an emotional journey of self-discovery, reassuring the other that they’ll be right where they left them if they choose to come back.

Listen to this move-inducing song below!

Featured on the following mixtapes:

Everything
Pop

July 24, 2024July 24, 2024

“All I Want” by The Heroic Enthusiasts

Artist: The Heroic Enthusiasts

Song: All I Want

Genres: #synthpop

Influences: Pet Shop Boys, New Order, Erasure.

Location: Rochester, New York, United States

Release date: June, 2024

Comment: When I first listened to the initial 20 seconds or so of “All I Want” by The Heroic Enthusiasts, my first reaction was that this was a 1980s-influenced musical act that was unlikely to move the needle for me. And then the pre-chorus came on. That started to get my attention. And by the time the chorus exploded, I was already all in. The track is heavily influenced by likes of Pet Shop Boys and Erasure, but you don’t have to be a massive fan of those legendary bands to enjoy it (which was my case). However, I suppose that those who are will go crazy about “All I Want”.

The Heroic Enthusiasts, comprised of James Tabbi and Thomas Ferrara, was initially born from a shared love of Brit-pop, New Wave, and Post-Punk. After achieving hundreds of thousands of streams across a few small releases, the New York-based duo is getting ready to release their first LP album, ‘Illuminate’, on Meridian (ECR Music Group), for which “All I Want” is the first single. The new album was helmed by legendary producer Stephen Hague, who has worked with Pet Shop Boys on several tracks and albums. He even co-wrote 5 of the 10 tracks that will be in the new record.

Colour me intrigued. I’m sure the new album will be full of gems, and I’m looking forward to it.

Featured on the following mixtapes:

Everything
Pop

June 18, 2024June 18, 2024

“MA!N CHARACTER” by BOYR!OT

Artist: BOYR!OT

Song: MA!N CHARACTER

Genres: #altpop

Location: Los Angeles, United States

Release date: May, 2024

Comment: BOYR!OT is a duo from Los Angeles blending 2000s pop-punk with contemporary sounds in a fun and energetic way. If you liked acts like 3OH!3, BOYR!OT will be right up your alley. The self-proclaimed “edgy chaotic queerdos,” Greg Driscoll and Brendan Eprile, make music that connects with those who feel different, advocating for self-worth and defying social pressures.

This is more than evident in “MA!N CHARACTER”, their debut single, which comes accompanied by a vibrant music video (watch it below) that features drummer Jess Goodwin and Constance Antoinette, the touring guitarist for Demi Lovato. I think it showcases the duo’s attitude and effervescent style.

On talent alone, BOYR!OT has what it takes to make it in show business and top some music charts. Hopefully, they’ll also have the luck they need. In the meantime, the bar has been set very high for their follow-up releases. They’ve already proven they know how to write outstanding hooks.

Featured on the following mixtapes:

Everything
Pop

June 7, 2024June 7, 2024

“Mother” by Nolo Grace

Artist: Nolo Grace

Song: Mother

Genres: #altpop #indiepop

Location: Los Angeles, United States

Release date: May, 2024

Comment: Last August, I featured here a catchy summer track from husband and wife duo Grace & Moji. While they keep going strong as a couple, this time, Grace Hong is back as a solo artist with a poignant song inspired by her complicated relationship with her mother, who suffered from mental illness. It’s never easy to be so vulnerable and share your internal struggles with the world. However, this openness can also be a cathartic experience, helping to heal old wounds.

“This is the most emotional song I’ve ever written, about me letting go of my mother and her influence on my life, and is the first song I ever wrote with my husband, Martin. It was a
challenging and healing experience, and it’s a special song for many reasons. I’ve since found a way to feel a lot of compassion for her, forgive the past, and open up to the future,” says Grace. “We all carry the imprint of our early childhood experiences and the ways we were and were not nurtured, but we have the opportunity as we grow up to build awareness around that, heal the past, and leverage what we learn from our struggles to be a force for good in the world.”

The track, produced by her husband Martin Wave (who has also worked with artists such as Post Malone, Steve Aoki, and Chloe Lilac), will be part of Nolo Grace’s forthcoming debut album, “Eyes of the Dragon”. Musically, the cinematic track follows an unconventional structure, with an atmospheric intro anchored by Grace’s voice; a second section that acts like a chorus; and an infectious bridge/outro that brings the energy level up a notch.

Sometimes, the most powerful music comes from our deepest vulnerabilities. I can’t wait to hear the rest of Nolo Grace’s debut album.

Featured on the following mixtapes:

Everything
Indie
Pop

May 20, 2024October 21, 2024

“Swayze” by Smallpools

Artist: Smallpools

Song: Swayze

Genres: #indierock #indiepop

Location: L.A & Nashville, United States

Release date: April, 2024

Comment: Smallpools have been featured here twice before, both times for some exceptional covers. This time, though, they’re here with an original song, the heavily 80s-influenced (as hinted by the track’s name) “Swayze,” and it is a banger.

Using elements from 80s music in modern tracks is far from unique, but doing so to complement an infectious melody and great vocals can really bring everything to the next level, and that’s exactly what Smallpools did here. You don’t have to be a fan of 80s music to enjoy this track, but if you are, it doesn’t get any better than this.

“Swayze” is the opening track of the band’s new EP “Ghost Town Road (East),” with a full-length album expected later this year.

Featured on the following mixtapes:

Everything
Indie
Pop

April 26, 2024August 14, 2024

“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

April 17, 2024July 31, 2024

“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

February 19, 2024July 22, 2024

“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

December 29, 2023December 29, 2023

Top 25 songs that soundtracked my 2023

The Alternative Mixtapes: Top 25 songs of 2023

Happy Holidays.

Fueled by the fantastic year-end charts of Mr. Keith Law and Eclectic Music Lover, I was inspired to craft my own list of the 25 songs that soundtracked my 2023. To streamline things (and maybe sneak in a bit of personal indulgence), I’m focusing solely on releases after October 2022. It’s not strictly a “most played” list, but that undoubtedly cast a long shadow here. You’ll recognize some familiar tunes that were featured here this year, but I’ve sprinkled in some hidden treasures too. So buckle up and dive into my sonic journey through the past year! (scroll down for the Spotify widget with all these songs).

“We Can Be Anything“ by Baby Queen. This is a total earworm that appeared here in September. Sadly, despite being a high point, it overshadowed everything else on her new album.
“Goodmorning” by Crusoe. Another familiar gem that’s bound to resonate with regular readers. In the realm of wordless electronica, this track sets the bar impossibly high.
“Primary Colors” by Baseball Game. This song snuck its way into my top tracks without me even realizing it. It might not be the one I actively pick to play, but whenever it pops up, I can’t help but get completely drawn in. It’s that subtle magic you know?
“We Are One” by Wild Youth. Wild Youth represented Ireland with “We Are One” in this year’s Eurovision contest. As you can expect from that show, it didn’t even reach the finals.
“When We Were Young” by blink-182. I really loved blink-182’s self-titled album and this song wasn’t even the one I featured on this blog earlier this year. It’s also not the last one from that record on this list.
“Godzilla” by Nanna. This solo offering from Of Monsters and Men‘s vocalist envelops you in a warm embrace of swirling melodies and ethereal vocals, proving that sometimes, the quietest roar can be the most captivating.
“Bug Like an Angel” by Mitski. I didn’t love the Japanese-American artist’s latest album, other than this stunning tune, which I wrote about here before.
“Sunbeams” by Michael FK. I didn’t have time to write about this enchanting song earlier, but I did write about this Moldovan artist back in 2020. I highly recommend checking out his work.
“How Many Dreams?” by DMA’s. I’m gutted this Australian act has toured the UK quite a lot recently and I still haven’t been able to see them live. I mean, this isn’t even the track from their latest album I liked the second-most.
“Childhood Eyes” by Yellowcard. As you can tell, I have a soft spot for punk-rock acts from the early 2000s. This release didn’t grab me initially, but it’s definitely grown on me.
“Girls Are Mean” by Boyish. Lead vocalist India Shore and vocalist and guitar player Claire Altendahl founded this indie rock duo when they auditioned at Berklee College of Music. On “Girls Are Mean”, the mix of pop, rock, and electronic elements created a soundscape that was both familiar and fresh, keeping me engaged throughout the track.
“Egyptian Summer” by Good Strangers. This is a song I raved about back in August, and honestly, my feelings haven’t faded a bit. This stunning debut track from their equally remarkable EP cemented my love for this Irish band. It’s truly special.
“Under The Influence(r)” by The Summer Set. It isn’t all smooth sailing here- lines like “You made me want to call my mom” have me scratching my head. But the sheer energy and infectious melody are undeniable, and it is pure pleasure to have them back making music together.
“Where Do I Sign?” by Weathers. When Weathers dropped “Where Do I Sign?” as their lead single, I expected it to be the crown jewel of their new album. Boy, was I wrong.
“Nothing Is Perfect” by Metric. I feel I could listen to this song’s intro on repeat the whole day. It appears on their latest album, Formentera II, a follow-up to their successful record from 2022.
“Jai Alai” by DMA’s. And there you have it! As I was saying, these guys are quickly climbing the ranks of my favorite bands. They got one more song in this list.
“Trastevere” by Måneskin. I didn’t like this Italian band when they won Eurovision in 2021: their glam rock excess not quite clicking with me. But “The Loneliest” started chipping away at those walls, and “Trastevere” has brought the whole damn building down. This stripped-down masterpiece, with its achingly beautiful melody and Damiano’s raw vocals, is everything I ever wanted in an acoustic rock anthem. This is how you weave storytelling and raw emotion into a sonic tapestry that leaves you breathless.
“Cool About it” by boygenius. It is not a groundbreaking track, but I just love this song. I can’t quite put my finger on it. Maybe it’s the comfort it brings? Whatever it is, I keep hitting repeat.
“Nothing To Say” by Weathers. Not quite my top spot on Weathers’ latest album, but “Nothing To Say” comes awfully close. The catchiness is practically contagious.
“Amnesia” by M83. A truly impressive comeback from the French act. I loved it when it was released and I still love it now.
“In One Ear & Out the Other” by Chicane. The eletronic music legend knows how to create ethereal soundscapes to lose yourself in. This one is no exception.
“Kill Ur Vibe” by All Time Low. I just love this song’s rhythm. It’s a punk-infused chill pill. Not mosh pit, but midnight drives and quiet defiance.
“21 Year Vacancy” by DMAs. Unsurprisingly, this was my favorite track from their latest album. A beautiful and emotionally resonant indie rock ballad about revisiting the past, acknowledging lost dreams, and finding peace with the journey taken.
“One of a Kind” by Weathers. Here it is: my most played song of 2023. The soaring melody grabs me every time, and the lyrics pack a punch that keeps me hitting repeat.
“Blink Wave” by blink-182. I never expected blink-182 to drop a synth-drenched, 80s-inspired track like “Blink Wave.” When I heard the rumors about it, I was skeptical, but let me tell you, this song blew me away. Who knew these pop-punk legends had an 80s synth masterpiece in them? It’s so good, the only reason it wasn’t my most played of 2023 is the album’s late November release.