Who’s ready to dance but also feel kind of sad at the same time? I’ve created a playlist for all of us who love being pictured as a Tumblr kid with cigs everywhere.
Even if you aren’t like that and just truly love indie music, I still recommend these songs:
1. “Brazil” by Declan McKenna
Ok, not to, like, be dramatic or anything, but like, Declan McKenna could smother me with a pillow and I probably wouldn’t even be mad. This song is so f**king good, and makes you want to dance instantly! (But if you’re lazy like me, just kind of shimmy your shoulders.)
2. “Lover Is a Day” by Cuco
At 7 minutes, you’d expect a song to drag on, but let me tell you – this song is incredible. It’s hella long but it’s one of the only long songs I can actually listen to all the way through. It’s so smooth and dreamy and will keep you swayin’.
3. “Back Pocket” by Vulfpeck
Vulfpeck is the funkiest band you’ll ever listen to, man… it’s so groovy. This song is 10/10 and I know it’ll grab your attention.
4. “Never Ever” by STRFKR
STRFKR is a mass combination of all kinds of sounds; they go from indie to psychedelic to electric. They’re a staple of indie music in my opinion, and you’d most commonly know them for their song, “Rawnald Gregory Erickson the Second,” which is also a bop!
5. “Feels Like Magic” by Sports
Ok, so I don’t want people to get the wrong idea and think I like sports (like the physical activity), but the band Sports – now that’s a different story. Geez Louise, dude, this song, once again, makes you shimmy your shoulders like there’s no tomorrow.
6. “Why Do You Feel So Down” by Declan McKenna
Wow! What a surprise, am I right? Once again, a true bop by this man with a beautiful voice. Listen to Declan McKenna!!!
7. “My Kind of Woman” by Mac DeMarco
I feel like when people think of indie music, they most likely think of Mac DeMarco – which you’re not wrong about, kiddos. Mac Demarco’s “My Kind of Woman” is such a sweet song and warms my heart.
8. “Adult Diversion” by Alvvays
Remember when I mentioned being sad? Well, yeah, this is that song. Don’t get me wrong – the song is pretty upbeat, but it talks about someone liking someone else who doesn’t notice them. You know, Alvvays, next time you write a song like this, @ me.
9. “OBLIVIUS” by The Strokes
All I can say about this song is that the riffs will blow you away. Nick Valensi and Albert Hammond kill it on the guitar all day!
10. “Televised” by HUNNY
I know I just mentioned riffs above, but this song’s guitar is top tier too (I know, I’m an alliteration queen.) “Televised” has the classic sad boi lyrics to it that just boost the songs level to supreme – you gotta listen.
11. “Amadelle With Love” by Gus Dapperton
So if any of you who are reading this sees me spazzin’ out on campus while I’m walking to class, just know I’m listening to this song. Honestly, this is the epitome of a dope tune.
12. “Lucy” by Still Woozy ft. ODIE
I just started listening to Still Woozy and lets just say I’m hooked. “Lucy” is an amazing song with a great beat and makes you feel super cool for some reason, or at least in my case.
13. “Goodie Bag” by Still Woozy
“Goodie Bag” was created for the indie kids, man. The beat, the lyrics and especially the music video shows the best of indie. 11/10 stars – you need to listen.
14. “Speaking Terms” by Snail Mail
Snail Mail’s song is definitely one of the sadder songs on this playlist. It isn’t as upbeat as the rest, but it’s so beautifully made. Lindsey Jordan’s voice is so pure and angelic that it just makes you float.
15. “Mind Mischief” by Tame Impala
Tame Impala brings in the psychedelic fun to the playlist! I had to add at least one song by them ‘cause I can’t have the love of my life, Kevin Parker, be mad at me (I love you babe!)
16. “Dope on a Rope” by The Growlers
This song is such a bop and I can just picture a spy movie so easily for some reason; I don’t know why that is. Listen to this and think about that. Let me know what you think.
17. “Humongous” by Declan McKenna
For a true book ending, I’ll finish with yet another Declan McKenna song. Yes, yes, I know – you’re welcome. I hope you enjoy his majestic voice as much I obviously do!
Hopefully you love these songs as much as I do, collegiettes! For easy listening, check out my Best Fall Indie Playlist!