I've been finding so much fantastic new music lately within my favorite genre, and I'm stressed because I don't have the time to give it all a fair listen. Browsing Spotify is one of my favorite hobbies. I've uncovered some new gems recently (and revisited some old ones), and I felt would just be cruel not to share. If you're in need of some hip jams to carry you through your mid-semester slump, look no further. And please forget that I just said "hip jams."
Here's some lesser-known indie-pop artists I think you need to complete your playlist this spring.
Day Wave
Dreamy vocals and steady '80s-inspired cues are distinguishing factors of this one-man band. Jackson Philips' SoCal roots come through in his relaxing, yet upbeat tracks, and while his lyrics are often melancholic and perhaps seem stuck in a preteen emo phase, his melodies are sure to have you humming along by your second listen. If artists like Real Estate tickle your fancy, I bet this guy will make it onto your summer playlist as well. Check him out at one of his SXSW sets before he makes it big.
Favorite tracks: "Gone," "Drag," "Deadbeat Girl"
CRUISR
If you're a fan of poppy hits from bands like The 1975, Philly-based CRUISR just might be your new obsession. Hefty bass lines, funky vibes and uplifting choruses are evident in each undeniably catchy song (I've had "Go For It" on repeat for, like, a week). Perfect for strolling to class on sunny days or cheering you up on gloomy days, CRUISR is bound to become your new go-to band for feel-good anthems.
Favorite tracks: "Go For It," "Wild Babe," "Throw Shade"
Avid Dancer
Another solo act you should get to know is Jacob Summers, better known as Avid Dancer. Summers' debut release "1st Bath" is an easy listen for those who like laid-back and psychedelic-influenced tunes à la BØRNS or Tame Impala. His album basically screams spring break road trip music. Plus, he apparently used to be a U.S. Marine, so I've got mad respect for the dude.
Favorite Tracks: "I Want To See You Dance," "All The Other Girls," "I Told You So"
St. Lucia
OK, I know St. Lucia isn't much of a secret anymore, but his new album "Matter" is so groovy I couldn't leave him out. Also, apparently it's a lot cooler for solo artists to go by a band-style name, because this masterpiece is technically only one guy, too. But I digress. Behold Jean-Philip Grobler, the South African expert of peppy, retro-inspired pop for the modern age. But he's also not afraid to get a little weird sometimes. There's almost no way you won't be shimmying and smiling once you give him a listen. You might also suddenly picture yourself in a John Hughes movie...but that's probably just me.
Favorite Tracks: "Dancing On Glass," "Physical," "Do You Remember" (and I'm still obsessed with 2013's "Elevate")
Hippo Campus
Hippo Campus is a young quartet from Minnesota who have perfected the art of indie-pop. Last fall, they released their second EP, "South," and they've been keeping themselves busy since. They've appeared at multiple festivals and opened for bands like WALK THE MOON and Modest Mouse on tour. They clearly have no intention of stopping soon. With their impressive combo of heavy drums and happy guitar riffs, they've quickly become one of my favorite bands. This is one act you'll want to get familiar with before they hit the mainstream. Plus, they're not hard to look at, either.
Favorite tracks: "Close to Gold," "Dollar Bills," "Violet"
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If you're interested in listening to any of these guys or curious what else I'm jamming to this season, check out my "spring" Spotify playlist !
