The days of popular music seem to be disappearing underneath the rise of all too similar musicians on the radio waves. Listeners are becoming tired of the same old, same old beats and lyrics that once seemed to rule music charts, and are now turning to a not-so-new style of music; Independent. This ‘indie’ vibe has introduced some well-known names such as Phoenix and, just recently, Bon Iver. While these musicians are all under the indie label, they all offer very unique and personalized sounds, leading a listener to possibly prefer some to others. Which ones are better for certain preferences, though, is a question that many new indie listeners are wondering.
Phoenix – This upbeat, quirky band delivers their sound from Versailles, France, which makes them almost immediately cool. If you’re one to drive around beach-lined landscapes with the windows down and your hair blowing in the wind, Phoenix delivers the right notes for you. Tracks such as “1901” and “Lizstomania”, will have you calling up all your friends and to road trip somewhere fun, warm, and beautiful.
Bon Iver – An American based folk band, Bon Iver, meaning ‘good winter’, lends vocals and guitar strums that will make even the most hardened person’s heart melt. Their attention to detail of each and every note leads to the listener just embracing the beauty of the sound. If you enjoy listening to music on your walk to that 8 AM class, this soulful group is what you should be plugging into your ears. Just imagine walking a path, lined with ice-covered trees, while the sun creeps slowly into the sky – that’s Bon Iver.
Angus and Julia Stone – This Australian duo has yet to hit the big music scene, yet there’s no doubt that it’ll be much longer. Their rustic approach to creating music, like recording in an old saw mill, makes their music approachable for those who enjoy raw voices and an almost heart-piercing beat. If you enjoy lounging around your apartment for a day of absolute solitude, Angus and Julia Stone would be the perfect remedy for a long week. Try “The Devil’s Tears” or go back with “Just a Boy”.
The Black Keys – An Ohio based band, these two men have been doing what they love since they first recorded their music on an 8 track tape recorder in the early 80’s. If you’re looking for a new feel of music for you and your girls on the weekend, try “Tighten Up” or “Lonely Boy” to get your night going. Keep an eye out for these boys, though; they have a new album, “El Camino,” that just came out on December 6th!
Indie music is incredible simply because of how versatile it can really be. No matter the mood or situation, the world of indie tunes can offer everyone something that popular music cannot, and that’s personalization. There are many more indie bands that fit the vast range of listener’s preferences, so be sure to check out the list of tracks below to see how well these unique bands can work for your musical taste.
Telekinesis – “Country Lane”
She & Him – “Me and You”
Sean Hayes – “Powerful Stuff”
Robin Bacior – “Housewife’s Lament”
Robert Francis – “Junebug”
M83 – “Midnight City”
Laura Veirs – “I Can See Your Tracks”
Iron and Wine – “Flightless Bird, American Mouth”
Fleet Foxes – “Quiet Houses”
Feist – “Caught a Long Wind”
Band of Horses – “Laredo”
Loney Dear – “I Got Lost”
The Head and the Heart – “Lost In My Mind”
M. Ward – “Never Had Nobody Like You”