indie underrated

Contra-Washington

Contra’s new song, Washington, is perfect for emo and pop punk lovers looking for new music in their rotation. This track, an upbeat throwback to 2000s emo, is a nostalgic track that reflects on Contra’s past. This track is notable for being a solo songwriting venture by the lead vocalist, Jacob Cuvas. The arrangement is uptempo and features layers of guitars. Cuvas’ vocals are a real highlight, with a boyish falsetto that brings the track together.

You can follow Contra on Instagram here. You can listen to this song on Spotify here.

Tommy Z-X Ray Girl

Tommy Z’s X Ray Girl is a unique, funky alt rock jam. Pivoting a bit from the last song, this next track, Tommy Z’s X Ray Girl, features more of a psychedelic sound to the production, with wah wah guitars reminiscent of the Grateful Dead taking prominence. The track continues in Tommy’s blues rock roots, with elements of garage and pop rock in the mix. Tommy’s vocals help convey a sense of anxiety over the woman he loves, with lyrics that tell of the push and pull in a relationship. Fans of bands like Sublime and John Mayer will love this track.

Indian Red Lopez-Obstacles

The final track we’ll be covering today, Obstacles by Indian Red Lopez, is a fun 80s inspired track that continues in the themes of nostalgia from Contra. The Scottish synth pop band really delivers with this song, a glossy power pop song with layers upon layers of synthesizers. Lead vocalist Mike Chang delivers powerful lyrics reflecting on the trials and tribulations the band has experienced in the decade plus they’ve been on the road. Fans of artists like M83, MGMT, A R I Z O N A and Neon Indian will love this band.

You can listen to this song on Spotify here.