indie underrated

We love what we’re hearing in “i can be ur lady,” the newest single from Baltimore-based synthpop outfit Plant Dad. 

The song is simultaneously spooky and alluring. The ambient tones that start the track give it a sense of mystery that pairs interestingly with the inviting vocals. The opening verse builds a palpable tension that is broken at the surprisingly–due to some inconspicuous percussion–groovy chorus. And, from there, the song only builds. In fact, the song never stops developing from beginning to end and this makes it an especially unpredictable and exciting listen. 

Matt Hurd helped write this track, and, in it, we hear some similarities to bands like The Dare. It should fit perfectly on your darkest and most ethereal indie playlists!

LA’s finest indie guitar rockers, Why Dogs Why, are back at it with the release of the titular song from their upcoming EP, Play the Hits. 

“Play the Hits,” in the words of the band, is “a song about behaving the way others expect you to behave because tbh it’s just kind of easier that way.” There’s both sadness and freedom in this sentiment, and the song does an excellent job of capturing these simultaneous emotions. 

By mixing a pleasant, arpeggiated chorus guitar with atmospheric tones and dejected vocals, WDW have crafted a song that’s perfectly melancholic. The refrain of “dance, monkey, dance away” emphasizes this melancholy by pairing the free expression of dance with the pejorative label of “monkey.” The band says, “[the song is] also about the feelings of frustration and resentment that come along with hiding your true self.” Although there’s a comedy to it, “Play the Hits” comments beautifully on a very true and common feeling of surrender. 

We hear some similarities to the late duo Her’s and the legendary indie group Weezer. Be sure to check out all of the Play the Hits EP, coming out on Tuesday, May 6th!

Carolyn Pennypacker Riggs and Max Foreman are individual artists of great esteem. And when they combine to create Bouquet, the results always evoke admiration. 

Their newest single, “Moon Was Made,” is yet another impressive synthesis of their styles and inspirations. The track is relatively spare. Grounded by a vintage Linn drum machine, Roland rhythm box, guitar, and some ambient tones, the uncomplicated instrumental arrangement finds a way to be complexly atmospheric while giving the lead harmonies plenty of space to exist as the focus of the track. Overall, it’s incredibly well balanced. 

The chord progressions and melodies have a playful energy to them. This contrasts the gritty instrumentals and gives the song a nice comfort to match its edge. 

We think “Moon Was Made” exists well within the tradition of dream-pop music popularized by artists like Broadcast and Stereolab. Listen now!

Hear these songs and more on our playlist now!