Ten Indie Albums for Your Summer Playlists
I love discovering new indie bands, whether from a song on my Spotify Discover mix or a promotional reel on Instagram. I love the creativity, spunk, and drive of the indie scene–there’s something in it for everyone. Summertime is perfect for kicking back in the sun with a vibey playlist, so here are some album recommendations from smaller artists to add to your listening this season.
everyone, outside- Cassia
Cassia is a band from the UK describing themselves as “tropical vibes but not tropical guys.” They recently released their third full-length album everyone, outside, which features several upbeat songs with laid-back vocals and hopeful lyrics. Their songs feel very singable, which I think makes them perfect for summer.
Favorite track: “friends”
2. i get nervous sometimes- Coastal Club
Coastal Club brings “wavy rock n roll from Cincinnati, Ohio.” This album feels like pure summer delight, with energetic, anthemic choruses perfect for singing in the car with the windows down.
Favorite track: “honey”
3. Chewing Cotton Wool- The Japanese House
For a slow drive shortly after sunset, The Japanese House is perfect. Amber Bain’s vocals blend richly into indie-electronic soundscapes, matched with reflective lyrics for perfectly melancholic melodies and those slower moments of summer.
Favorite track: “Something Has to Change”
4. Siesta del Sol- Motel Radio
This album has a great chill indie rock sound, with surf and twangy influences, perfect for a lazy beach day.
Favorite track: “Fly Solo”
5. Summer Break Mixtape- No Vacation
This three-song collection boasts incredible musicianship, with nostalgic beachy guitar solos, perfectly matched vocals, and lyrics tinged with teenage angst.
Favorite track: “Dream Girl”
6. Phoneboy- Phoneboy
The first album from this band features a vintage indie pop rock sound, a good mix of upbeat and more laid-back songs, all of which remind me of a fun coming-of-age movie. Their new album Heartbreak Designer showcases their new female vocalist, Jordan, on several songs.
Favorite track: “Roses”
7. Fruitless- Rainbow City Park
Rainbow City Park is a small alternative rock band from Northern California. I love the light but strong vocals of their lead singer, supported by steady basslines and guitar riffs.
Favorite track: “Chalk”
8. Under the Light- San Cisco
This is the latest album from this Australian indie pop outfit and an ideal one for summer. I like the alternating mix of female and male-led vocals, as well as their poppy synth.
Favorite track: “Honeycomb”
9. Crying, Laughing, Waving, Smiling- Slaughter Beach, Dog
Slaughter Beach, Dog is led by Jake Ewald, formerly of the band Modern Baseball. This album offers an acoustic and folk sound that’s a relaxing change of pace from the aforementioned pop and rock albums. I think this one is perfect for seaside or lakeside listening sessions.
Favorite track: “Summer Windows”
10. After Fillmore County- Vansire
If your summer involves a road trip, especially through the seemingly never-ending fields and flatland of the Midwest, you need to add Vansire to your playlist. This album bittersweetly captures a feeling of youth and its inevitable end, making it a great listen as summer turns to fall and you reflect on all the memories you made.
Favorite track: “The Latter Teens”
If you’re anything like me, certain songs attach themselves in your mind to certain experiences and feelings. Songs I loved years ago always come back to me when their season rolls around again. Check out these albums and add your favorites to your summer playlist!
