indie underrated

The Canadian hip-hop artist Dax delivers a unique take on life in his latest release “From a Man’s Perspective”. Despite the singular focus assumed from the title, the concept of the song could be applied universally – the need for external-validation and self-acceptance…

The Canadian hip-hop artist Dax delivers a unique take on life in his latest release “From a Man’s Perspective”. Despite the singular focus assumed from the title, the concept of the song could be applied universally – the need for external-validation and self-acceptance. Nothing out of the ordinary in terms of composition, but the trap-inspired grooves (a la Future or Migos) and floating piano chords suit the vibe of the track, and give room for the vocals to tell the story without being trampled on. The accompanying music video is a perfect companion and is very well-produced. Monologues interspersed during the musical interludes help to illustrate the theme of the song, giving it more depth and realism.

Fairtrade Narcotics (amazing group name btw) is a “genre-fluid five piece band dabbling in modern jazz, psychedelic pop/soul and progressive rock” which is evident on their newest release “Pivot”, available now. The song starts with an incredibly infectious bass and drum groove, before the searing vocals and dreamy, ethereal guitar layers bring the feel good vibes in spades. The tinges of jazz inspiration heard in moments of guitar/vocal scatting give way to the punctuated accents cleverly inserted by the brass section, making this track a fusion of genres that will leave listeners with a lack of boredom. Great production quality too, the opening bass tone is both funky and dirty, while maintaining a smooth elegance. Perfectly setting the tone for the rest of the track.

“Euphoria Calling” is the latest release from Australian artist Da Plazz, and sounds like what can only be described as “folk EDM”. While most EDM or House tracks would rely on focusing the attention mostly to the instrumental, Da Plazz let the vocals have space within the mix, offering storytelling as well as dance-ability. There is a Moby-like quality to the overall vibe of the song, with syncopated drum loops alongside dreamy piano chords which help to drive the emotion and feel. The lyrics are catchy and melodic, try not getting the vocals stuck in your head after listening. Loving the overall feel feel of this track, especially the surprise acoustic guitar solo.

Fans of The Cure or The National will dig “Unglory”, the latest release from Australian-based Le Gassique. The chorus effect-laden single note guitar lines introduced at the start give way to a steady, thunderous drum beat. One that Sir David Grohl himself would most certainly approve of. Ironically, the guitar tones are reminiscent of Nirvana’s “Come As You Are” and certainly give the song a heavy 80s/90s alt vibe, while maintaining a contemporary flair. Dark, gloomy, groovy, shoegazey and infectious. All the ingredients for a song you’ll want to listen to again and again.

find Fairtrade Narcotics, Da Plazz, Le Glassique & Dax on our All New Indie Pop Playlist