DMA’S – 21 Year Vacancy

"21 Year Vacancy" by DMA'S

Artist: DMA’S

Song: 21 Year Vacancy

Genres: #indierock #alternativerock

Location: Sydney, Australia

Release date: March, 2023

Influences: Oasis, The Stone Roses

Comment: “21 Year Vacancy” by DMA’S, the third single from their new album “How Many Dreams?”, is a slow-burning indie rock ballad that showcases the DMAs’ knack for crafting powerful and heartfelt tracks. As someone who reviewed their song “Viol” previously, I cannot say I’m surprised by the band’s songwriting talent and ability to create emotionally resonant tunes. The catchy melody, soaring chorus, and simple yet effective instrumentation create a lush soundscape that complements vocalist Tommy O’Dell’s tender and raw vocals.

The lyrics of “21 Year Vacancy” are full of regret and longing, as O’Dell reflects on a relationship that has ended. The honesty and relatability of the lyrics are sure to strike a chord with anyone who has experienced heartbreak.

If you’re looking for a song that will make you feel something, then “21 Year Vacancy” is the song for you. It’s a song that will break your heart, but it’s also a song that will give you hope.

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Sylvan Weekends – Every Day

“Every Day” by Sylvan Weekends

Artist: Sylvan Weekends

Song: Outliers

Genres: #indie

Location: London, United Kingdom

Release date: May, 2023

Comment: Sylvan Weekends’ “Every Day” is a beautiful track that explores the scope of tiny details that it takes to truly get to know someone. The song is about the doubts and pessimism that come with getting to know someone. The lyrics are certainly thought-provoking and the song features beautiful harmonies and a catchy melody that draws the listener in.


The track is part of Sylvan Weekends’ debut EP “Outliers” which was released this month. The EP is a whistle-stop tour through the human condition – exploring the human psyche through every track and lyric. Nobody fits perfectly into one box and neither does their music. The EP features four other tracks: “Symmetry”, “Young & Freewheeling”, “Outliers” and “185”, with each one of them exploring different aspects of life and the human condition.

All in all, this is a stunning debut. I feel that if you enjoy bands like The Strumbellas, you will love Sylvan Weekends.

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M83 – Amnesia

"Amnesia" by M83

Artist: M83

Song: Silent Type

Genres: #indie

Location: Antibes, France

Release date: March, 2023

Comment: M83‘s latest album ‘Fantasy’ is a beautifully crafted, dreamlike soundscape that takes inspiration from ’80s shoegaze and film soundtracks. The album is a huge, fizzing world of sound that’s designed to feel as awe-inspiring as possible. Anthony Gonzalez’s haunting voice invites the listener to embrace the darkness and sadness in the lyrics.

One standout single from the album is “Amnesia,” a nostalgic and upbeat journey that features reverb-laden guitar riffs, soft synths, and the haunting vocals mentioned above. The track is a perfect representation of the album’s overall sound, with its sugary, dreamlike feel that’s entirely welcoming. The dreamy instrumentation creates a captivating and immersive listening experience.

All in all, “Amnesia” is a must-listen for fans of M83’s previous work and those looking for a new, dreamy sound to get lost in. While Anthony Gonzalez may have intentionally turned away from commercialism with this album (after the massive success he had with “Midnight City”), the songs remain as sugary and immersive as ever, drawing inspiration from the music he grew up on and the soundscapes of film and video game music.

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Fastball – Fire Escape

"Fire Escape" by Fastball

Artist: Fastball

Song: Fire Escape

Genres: #alternativerock

Location: Austin, Texas, United States

Release date: March, 1998

Comment: Without a doubt, “The Way” is the song Fastball are known for. It is certainly a great rock song and it was a huge megahit in 1998. However, as a #ThrowbackThursday entry, I wanted to put the spotlight on “Fire Escape”, a slightly lesser known single from the same masterful album: “All The Pain Money Can Buy”.

From the very first note, “Fire Escape” draws you in with its infectious energy and driving rhythm. The guitar riffs are crisp and clean, and the drums provide a steady beat that keeps you moving along. The song’s lyrics are insightful and introspective, touching on the challenges of finding one’s true identity and the struggle to be true to oneself in a world that often expects conformity. The music video, which you can watch below, is also hilarious.

Overall, “Fire Escape” is a standout track that showcases Fastball‘s unique style and talent. Let’s keep playing this gem of a song.

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Lost In Japan – Won’t Let You

"Won't Let You" by Lost In Japan

Artist: Lost In Japan

Song: Won’t Let You

Genres: #indierock #altrock

Location: London, Canada

Release date: April, 2023

Comment: Canadian band Lost In Japan -whose song “Lonely” was featured here two years ago-are back with a new single: “Won’t Let You”, which delves into the theme of identity and change. With an introspective tone, the band reveals their struggle to stay true to themselves while trying to please others.

Musically, the track features a compelling mix of guitar riffs and drum beats that give it an uplifting energy. It’s clear that the band poured their hearts into this song, especially since they’re parting ways with a key member after their last run of shows. “Won’t Let You” is a testament to the band’s ability to evolve while staying true to their sound, even during difficult times. Fans of indie rock will definitely enjoy this new release from Lost In Japan.

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Homes At Night – Texaco

Texaco by Homes at Night
Texaco by Homes at Night

Artist: Homes At Night

Song: Texaco

Genres: #indierock #altrock

Location: Nashville, United States

Release date: April, 2023

Comment Homes at Night, a duo consisting of Hank Compton and Aksel Coe, have just released their latest single, “Texaco,” and it showcases the pair’s ability to craft catchy yet meaningful tracks that speak to the heart and soul. It is a perceptive single that centers on life’s transitional moments and the need to let go of toxic habits in order to grow. Hank’s personal experiences with addiction inspired the song’s lyrics.

The Homes at Night’s sound is a fusion of alternative pop/rock that is both nostalgic and modern, layered with organic instruments, synth-driven soundscapes, cinematic hooks, and a percussive pulse. The duo is currently on tour with Saint Motel, and they’ll be joining Arts Fishing Club for dates in May and June. With a growing streaming presence, they’re rapidly gaining recognition for their explosive sound, and rightfully so.

One example of that explosive sound is the chorus in “Texaco”, which is enhanced by its contrast with the song’s verses. All in all, this is a really good song that you can check out below.

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18 by Jonah Kagen

18 by Jonah Kagen
18 by Jonah Kagen

Artist: Jonah Kagen

Song: 18

Genres: #indiefolk

Location: Savannah, Georgia

Release date: April, 2023

Comment: 18 by Jonah Kagen is a heartfelt and emotional exploration of the ups and downs of young love. With his acoustic-driven sound and honest lyrics, Kagen captures the essence of falling in love as a kid and the rollercoaster of emotions that often come with it.

As a talented singer and songwriter, Kagen brings a level of depth and authenticity to his music that is truly captivating. His passion for the acoustic guitar and finger-style technique is evident in his music, and it’s clear that he is dedicated to creating something special for his listeners.

Following his debut EP, ‘georgia got colder,‘ Kagen has already made a name for himself in the music industry, with over 130+ million global streams, a US tour supporting Maisie Peters, and nearly 2 million Spotify monthly listeners. He was even included on Shazam‘s 2023 predictions list, cementing his status as an artist on the rise.

Don’t miss this heartfelt and sweet single.

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Beach Weather – Silent Type

Beach Weather
Beach Weather

Artist: Beach Weather

Song: Silent Type

Genres: #indierock

Location: United States

Release date: March, 2023

Comment: Regular visitors of EclecticMusicLover.com are well familiar with Beach Weather, as they are often featured on Jeff’s weekly Top 30 charts. The band released a new album last month, Pineapple Sunrise, that includes the enchanting track “Silent Type,” which showcases the band’s talent for creating catchy, yet meaningful music. The song’s upbeat melody and bright, summery vibe contrast with its lyrics, which delve into the topic of anxiety and the desire to disappear sometimes.

Despite its serious subject matter, “Silent Type” is a brilliant song that captures the complex emotions of living with anxiety. The song’s thoughtful lyrics and poignant vocals are complemented by the band’s expert instrumentation, making for a truly immersive listening experience. It’s a must-listen for any fan of thoughtful, well-crafted music.

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Gracie Abrams – Amelie

Gracie Abrams
Gracie Abrams

Artist: Gracie Abrams

Song: Amelie

Genres: #indie #acoustic

Location: Los Angeles, United States

Release date: February, 2023

Comment: Gracie is the daughter of successful movie director J.J. Abrams, and she’s currently supporting Taylor Swift on her ERAS tour; so she’s not the kind of artist who would need any help promoting her music. However, she’s so genuinely talented and got such a beautiful voice, that I had to feature Gracie on this humble website. If you like folksy indie music, you are going to love “Amelie”, which is part of Gracie’s debut LP “Good Riddance”.

The track is stripped down to its bare essentials, featuring only an acoustic guitar and an occasional piano melody playing delicately in the background. However, what sets it apart is Gracie’s vulnerable vocals, which convey the emotional depth of the lyrics. “Amelie” centers around the familiar subject of falling for someone you’ve just met, and Gracie’s delivery captures the intensity of that experience. The gorgeous track, which was co-written and produced by Aaron Dessner from The National, is a true gem that should not be missed.

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A R I Z O N A – Moving On

A R I Z O N A - Moving On
A R I Z O N A - Moving On

Artist: A R I Z O N A

Song: Moving On

Genres: #indierock #altpop

Location: New Jersey, United States

Release date: February, 2023

CommentA R I Z O N A has returned with their latest single “Moving On,” and the electro-pop trio’s first original music release in four years is a true testament to their meteoric rise since their inception in 2015. The single is marked by infectious pop hooks and a synth-infused beat that is sure to please fans of the genre. It will be part of the band’s forthcoming self-titled album next month.

The band has amassed an impressive following, with over one billion worldwide career streams, sold-out headline tours, and well-received festival sets at major events such as Coachella, Lollapalooza, and Austin City Limits.

“Moving On” embodies the band’s message of creating a safe space where misfits and outcasts can belong, and it offers a beacon of hope for anyone struggling with life’s ups and downs. To celebrate their love for their namesake state, A R I Z O N A filmed a stunning music video in Round Rock, AZ, which you can check out below.

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