indie underrated

We’re less than three weeks away from the release of Kassi Valazza’s new album From Newman Street and our anticipation is through the roof after hearing “Shadow of Lately.” 

This song strikes us as a meditation on place, change, and confronting familiarity with a new set of eyes. The line “I’d rather keep moving than go back in the door” depicts a speaker caught between two places, and we think this song is a beautiful expression of the internal conflict that comes with such a position. 

The descending bass line and pensive instrumental arrangement provide the perfect backdrop for the emotional reflection. And, of course, the song is made complete by Valazza’s precise and limber vocal performance. 

We think “Shadow of Lately” is a modern contribution to the indie folk tradition previously championed by artists like Joni Mitchell and Nick Drake. 

Be sure to listen to all of From Newman Street, out May 2nd! 

“rollin’,” the newest single from DROZ, is infectious. 

The song starts with an inviting chime and soon after the drums, bass, and guitar kick in. The rhythm section holds it all down with a tempo that’s as steady as a swaggering walk and the funky, Nile Rodgers-style guitar gives the song a little extra pop. 

The chorus is absolutely catchy and we’re glad that DROZ wastes no time getting to it. The crowded vocal arrangement compels the listener to sing along and we do because the lyrical composition is just that accessible and memorable. 

DROZ has arranged a killer contemporary R&B track with this one, and we think it sits well next to older artists of the genre like Chic or newer ones like Steve Lacy. 

“rollin’” is a shot of confidence. Listen and “let your body move all night.” 

The long awaited return of Fintan McKahey is here! “Higher Place” comes as the artist’s first single in over three years and serves as a tremendous bridge between the music of his past and the music of his future. 

The song is instrumentally characterized by a rhythmic acoustic guitar, dreamy slide guitar (courtesy of Kealan Kenny), and an undeniably groovy drum track (courtesy of Eoin Barclay). All of these elements work together to create a sonic space that is warm and well balanced, with distant and near noises alike. The nearest of all are McKahey’s deep, smooth vocals that wrap around the instruments and allow the listener to feel fully embraced by the song. 

McKahey has a unique, hip-hop flair in his delivery. It’s unlike anything we’re used to hearing in the indie acoustic realm and really only brings Ed Sheeran to mind as a comparison. 

We’re over the moon to see Fintan McKahey making music again. We understand that he has more releases planned for 2025, and we can’t wait to hear them all!

Hear these songs now on our All New Indie Pop playlist: