Tag: Recommendation

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“Swayze” by Smallpools

"Swayze" by Smallpools
"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

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“Next Semester” by Twenty One Pilots

"Next Semester" by Twenty One Pilots

Artist: Twenty One Pilots

Song: Next Semester

Genres: #alternativerock #punkrock

Location: Columbus, Ohio, United States

Release date: March, 2024

Comment: I’ve mentioned before that I like Twenty One Pilots, but when I listened to the lead single off their forthcoming album “Clancy,” “Overcompensate,” I got worried that I wouldn’t like any of their new songs. Thankfully, those worries went away when I listened to their second single, “Next Semester,” because I think it’s probably their best track since “Heathens.”

I love how it starts as an old school punk song, only to switch to a catchy pop track in the chorus. Then, you have anthemic chants in the bridge and an unexpected acoustic outro. Add in some lyrics with a dark, nostalgic feel that contrasts with the music, and you end up with a musical gem.

Featured on the following mixtapes:

  • Everything
  • Alternative
  • Punk-Rock

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“Ignition” by Mark Driver

"Ignition" by Mark Driver
"Ignition" by Mark Driver

Artist: Mark Driver

Song: Ignition

Genres: #chillout #downtempo

Location: Seattle, United States

Influences: Bonobo, Kisamos, Emancipator

Release date: March, 2024.

Comment: There’s a certain tranquility to driving down a highway with no traffic in sight. You’re alone with your thoughts, the open road stretching before you, and the perfect soundtrack blasting through your speakers. That’s the feeling Seattle-based artist Mark Driver aimed to capture with his four-track downtempo electronic EP, “Ignition.” While the opening track, also called “Ignition,” is the one featured here, the entire EP is worth a listen.

“Ignition” itself perfectly embodies that peaceful highway drive. The downtempo beat lays the foundation, a steady pulse that mimics the rhythm of the tires on the pavement. Layered on top are textured soundscapes and ethereal vocals, weaved throughout the track, evoking a sense of human warmth amidst the digital elements. The overall effect is one of deep immersion, transporting you to that perfect moment of solitude and sonic bliss.

This captivating debut EP hints at the immense potential Mark Driver possesses. “Ignition” is a strong foundation, and it will be fascinating to see where his musical journey takes him in the future.

Featured on the following mixtapes:

  • Everything
  • Chill Out

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“Saw You In A Dream” by Colin Woltmann

"Saw You In A Dream” by Colin Woltmann
"Saw You In A Dream” by Colin Woltmann

Artist: Colin Woltmann

Song: Saw You In A Dream

Genres: #indiefolk

Influences: Elliot Smith, Bob Dylan, John Prine

Location: Alabama, United States

Release date: April, 2024

Comment: Colin Woltmann, a talented singer-songwriter from Alabama, continues to enchant with his latest single, “Saw You In A Dream,” the second track from his upcoming EP, “A Case of the Times”.

Woltmann got inspiration from artists such as Nick Drake, as well as those listed as his influences already. His sound is both soft and raw, creating an experience that feels like stepping into his mind. His first single, previously featured here, had a calming melody and honest lyrics. The same can be said of “Saw You In A Dream,” although each song in its own unique way. Personally, I find the new track even more ethereal, perhaps because Colin wrote it after experiencing a couple of strange dreams that left him in a state of déjà vu.

“Saw You In A Dream” by Colin Woltmann feels like sipping hot chocolate in a cozy cabin in the middle of winter—a warm, comforting song. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do!

Featured on the following mixtapes:

  • Everything
  • Folk/Indie

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“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

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“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

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“morro bay” by sad dad

"morro bay" by sad dad
"morro bay" by sad dad

Artist: sad dad

Song: morro bay

Genres: #indierock

Influences: Alvvays, carwash, DIIV

Location: Stockholm, Sweden

Release date: February, 2024

Comment: If you love jangly guitars, this song is for you. Drawing from Alvvays‘ “Blue Rev ” album, this Swedish duo formed by John Dahlbäck and Erik Ljungqvist composed and self-produced a quintessential indie-rock tune that’s almost impossible to get out of your head. “morro bay” is the lead single off sad dad‘s forthcoming debut album and as any good lead single does, it leaves you wanting more.

John and Erik wrote “morro bay” to express the difficulty of a friendship ending when people start going in opposite directions. Despite the sad subject matter, the track comes accompanied by a music video that the duo had a lot of fun recording. Someone once told them they weren’t sarcastic enough, and that inspired them to make the silly video you can watch below.

Check out “Morro Bay” and see if it gets stuck in your head too! Keep sad dad on your radar – their debut album is coming soon!

Featured on the following mixtapes:

  • Everything
  • Folk/Indie

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“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

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“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

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“Shy” by Teo Salfinger

"Shy" by Teo Salfinger
"Shy" by Teo Salfinger

Artist: Teo Salfinger

Song: Shy

Genres: #neoclassical, #relaxingmusic

Influences: Max Richter, Ludovico Einaudi, Philip Glass.

Location: Leipzig, Germany

Release date: December, 2023

Comment: Teo Salfinger is a German composer who crafts neoclassical landscapes with a minimalist touch, where his melodies often carry a melancholic beauty reminiscent of evocative film scores. Just before Christmas, he released “Petite Dances“, his third studio album, with ten little gems encapsulating this. “Shy” is just one example, and the main reason why I chose it as the featured track over the others is that it is cello-based, and I have not written about many cello tracks here. If you enjoy the work of Max Richter and Ludovico Einaudi, two of Teo’s influences, I highly encourage you to check out the whole album.

“Shy” appears to have been crafted specifically for contemplative moments, when the entire world fades away and you are left with your own thoughts. Each cello strum paints a dream, a velvety realm of calmness and quiet understanding. This isn’t a song about grand pronouncements; rather, it’s a composition that celebrates the beauty of introspection. Close your eyes and enjoy!

Featured on the following mixtapes:

  • Everything
  • Relax