Are you looking for some new music that is unique and authentically indie? If so, you’ve come to the right place! This article will explore the rich and vibrant indie music scene and uncover some of the hidden gems to be found within it. Read on to find out what lesser-known musicians and bands are breaking ground in the indie music world.
1. Introduction to Indie Music Scene
Often times it seems like any and all indie music is overshadowed by pop and mainstream music. But the indie music scene is more than just an overlooked genre. It is an expansive wave of artists and musicians who are constantly refining their craft and producing unique sounds.
Here are some cherished gems of the indie music scene worth exploring:
- Lofi Hip-hop: Unique beats, calm melodies, and a sense of nostalgia – lofi hip-hop strikes a balance between structured tunes and abstract soundscapes.
- Surf Rock: A lively and upbeat version of rock resting on bluesy riffs and melodies, this style is all about a certain kind of groove.
- Jazz fusion: Jazz fusion is a mix of traditional, classical jazz and a variety of other genres. For true music fans, this is an unmissable sound.
- Folk Pop: This feel-good fusion of pop and folk music is sure to put a smile on your face. It takes familiar tunes and puts a new spin on them.
This is just the start, with many more undiscovered gems present in the indie music scene. Make sure to take some time to explore them for yourself!
2. Understanding the Evolution of Indie Music
The indie music scene has been ever-changing since its mainstream emergence in the early 1980s. While traditionally associated with independent record labels, it has evolved into a musical genre unlike any other - a hybrid of punk, folk, rock, electronic music, and more – thanks to the influence of the internet and digital streaming platforms. But what is the history and major influences behind the evolution of the genre? Let’s explore the recesses of this undiscovered treasure and uncover some gems.
- 1980s to 2000s: The Emergence of Indie Music
- Early ‘80s: The term Indie rock is coined, majorly associated with ska, punk, and post-punk
- Mid ‘80s: A broader sound emerges which is adopted with a do-it-yourself attitude
- Late ‘90s: It becomes a catch-all label for underground music
- Influences on the Evolution:
- The DIY mentality has played a major part in evolving the genre worldwide by allowing it to be made accessible easily through the internet.
- The multi-genre nature of the record labels also has provided indie music with the freedom to develop and adapt to various sounds and influences
- Present Day: Indie Music Fused With Mainstream Music
- It has become a widely accepted genre in recent years, integrated with popular music and involving more experimentation
- The strong network of festivals, dedicated radio stations, and other outlets for the genre has given indie music a stronger presence
Overall, the indie music scene offers a unique story of evolution, one that continues to develop and grow with the contributions of modern-day artists. The music’s growing acceptance serves as a testament to its legacy, and its place in the conversation of music today.
3. The Benefits of Exploring Indie Music
1. Discover New Sounds
Exploring indie music creates a world of new opportunities for truly discovering the unknown. You can experience everything that the mainstream music industry doesn’t offer, from obscure sounds such as trip-hop and electro-blues to more recognizable genres like folk and darkwave. Indie music offers the chance to dig down into hidden depths of the music world and uncover undiscovered gems.
2. Enjoy Exclusivity and Authenticity
Other benefits of delving into the realm of indie music is gaining access to songs made by musical artists that most people have never heard. With indie artists gaining more exposure and airtime, they are becoming a large part of the industry, so this is a great way to find exclusive music that has a unique sound and authentic style.
3. Widen Your Musical Palette
Exploring the indie music scene could also easily help you broaden your musical palette due to the vast amount of musical styles available. From classic rock to psychedelic electronic, each genre has sub genres that can lead you down a path of exquisite discovery.
4. Support Talented Up & Coming Musicians
Furthermore, by supporting indie music, you will encourage and support the efforts of up & coming musicians who are not yet well known. You can help promote their songs and by giving them the attention they deserve, you can make a real difference in their lives.
5. Open Yourself to New Experiences
The thriving indie music scene also offers listeners the opportunity to open themselves to new sounds and experiences. Immersing yourself in the indie music culture will and show you what else is out there and guide you through it.
4. Discovering New and Hidden Artists
Many music connoisseurs are of the opinion that the best and most memorable songs come from lesser-known artists who are still building their careers. That is why those looking for a unique sound should consider exploring the hidden gems of the indie music scene. Here are four ways to find such unheard-of musicians.
- Explore Local Radio Stations: Local radio stations are great spots to find new, undiscovered music since they usually air music from local and lesser-known musicians. Dig around on your local radio station websites and see what sparks your interest.
- Follow Music Blogs: Virtually every genre of music has blogs that feature fresh, original music from unknown artists. They also provide links to the artists’ websites. Follow a couple of blogs and you will get updates when new content is posted.
- Attend Live Music Events: The bands and soloists playing on stage at your local pub or other live music events are very likely to be regional or local artists. Make an effort to attend these shows and you may discover a hidden gem.
- Network on Social Media: Follow other musical minds on social media and you may get exposure to hidden gems. See what they’re talking about, listen to the music they recommend, and spread the word.
Once you begin exploring the indie music scene, you are likely to find powerful tunes you would have otherwise overlooked. Listen carefully. You never know what you may discover.
5. Uncovering the Genres of Indie Music
The indie music scene is an incredibly diverse and ever-changing landscape of cutting-edge music. Whether you’re a fan of rock, pop-punk, soul, or anything in between, there’s something out there for everyone. Here are five genres of indie music that you may not have heard of, but are definitely worth exploring.
- Dream Pop: Dream Pop is a calming, ethereal genre incorporating lo-fi percussion, jangly guitars, and calming synth sounds. Its often characterized by heavy reverb, hazy guitar tones, and hazy, psychedelic textures.
- Folktronica: Folktronica is a combination of folk, electronic, and experimental music. It incorporates traditional instruments such as acoustic guitar, fiddle, banjo, and mandolin with ambient soundscapes and electronic beats.
- Garage Punk: Garage Punk is a fuzzy, fast-paced blend of punk rock and garage rock. It’s characterized by crunchy guitar riffs, pounding drums, and lots of attitude.
- Noise Pop: Noise Pop is a combination of noisy guitars, chaotic drums, and experimental song structures. It combines the energy of punk with the sonic experimentation of noise rock.
- Shoegaze: Shoegaze is a genre of dreamy, ethereal music defined by its heavy use of reverb and delay. It blends wall-of-sound guitars, airy vocals, and washy soundscapes to create a captivating musical experience.
If you’re looking for something a little different from the mainstream, these five genres of indie music are great places to start. They all have their own unique sound and personalities, so you’re sure to find something that speaks to you!
6. Advantages of Supporting Indie Music
As the world of music continues to evolve and expand, more and more new and unique sounds can be found waiting to be discovered. One of the best places to look for undiscovered gems is in the indie music scene. Supporting indie music has several advantages that are worth exploring.
- Discover New Artists: Supporting indie music allows fans to discover undiscovered talent and fresh new sounds and ideas.
- Inspiring Sounds: Newer music today often feels formulaic, but the indie scene shines bright with its unconventional and inspiring sounds.
- Support Local Musicians: Indie music typically comes from your local area, so you can support artists that you might actually come across in your town.
- Refreshing Experience: If you love music, support indie music to refresh your experience and focus on more unique and experimental artists.
It could surprise you just how much great music you can find by exploring the indie music scene. If you are not sure where to start, you can check out local music venues, try searching online, or seek out mixtapes and DJ sets.
7. Engaging with Sub-communities of Indie Music Scene
Indie music scene is so much more than most of us imagine. While the most popular bands often get the spotlight, there are many others out there that remain unheard of and undiscovered. Exploring sub-communities of the indie music scene can be an adventurous and thrilling journey for any music fan. As you venture off into finding your new favorite sound, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Attend smaller music festivals.
These events are a great way to discover a great new sound, from the local acts to international underground bands. - Do your research.
It pays to check out fan forums, artist reviews, and new releases. This can help you find new bands and artists to listen to. - Explore physical spaces.
Places like record stores, local markets, and even small music cafes can be great resources for learning about new music.
There is no doubt that the indie music scene is incredibly vibrant and diverse. Sub-communities often have their own unique takes on traditional genres and even brand new sounds. By taking the time to explore these uncharted waters, you may just find your next favorite song.
8. Suggested Listening for Independence Music Lovers
Katie Tell – Every Day is My Birthday
From Katie Tell’s jangling and infectious 2019 album, this light-hearted and bubbly celebration of self-love is an appropriate anthem for music lovers declaring their independence. Complete with a freewheeling electronic synth line that pulses through the mix, this track is an energizing pick-me-up.
Voyager – Crowned Machines
A standout from the lasting influence of post-rock on the indie music scene, this powerful and heavy piece mixes guitars, pianos, and drums in a crescendo of sound that builds with every emotion. Perfect for listeners looking for a good cinematic backdrop to their meditation.
Nina Nesbitt – Dynamite
This recently released single from multi-instrumentalist and singer-songwriter Nina Nesbitt is an upbeat and breezy ode to freedom. With a buoyant chorus and upbeat tempo, this track is perfect for moments of joy and revelry.
Here Not There - The Things I Carry
The lyrical prowess of Here Not There’s 2019 debut EP can’t be understated. On this moving and emotive track, lead singer Kayley Williams crafts an emotional outpouring of yearning and wanting that’s a perfect soundtrack for anyone finding strength in their own independence.
Tycho – Easy
From Tycho’s ambient and atmospheric electronic stylings, this dreamy and spaced-out track is a great go-to for escape and reflection. A masterclass of synths and beats, this track is perfect for taking a momentary step out of reality.
Conclusion – Embracing Indie Music
As we see from the journey through indie music, embracing this genre can be a wonderful experience. In a bustling sea of identical-sounding mainstream music, indie music offers something unique and insightful. This is why it is so important to explore the genre as much as possible.
It’s time to give indie music an honest try. One of the best ways to do this is to make use of all the resources out there. From subscription streaming services that promote indie music, to blogs and websites that showcase unheard-of artists, there is no shortage of ways to help find the perfect piece of indie music.
Here are some tips for discovering new indie music:
- Make use of streaming services, such as Spotify, that actively promote indie music.
- Listen to indie radio shows on Internet radio stations and podcasts.
- Peruse social media sites like SoundCloud and Bandcamp.
- Subscribe to indie-centric blogs and websites.
- Explore indie music festivals and venues.
Indie music is an incredible world waiting to be explored. Whether you are looking for a new favorite artist, a sound that resonates with you, or just a fun way to discover music, embracing indie is an exciting journey that may surprise you.
If you seek new music and a myriad of genres, delving into the indie music scene is the way to go. With its multitude of hidden gems, getting lost in the depths of the underground indie scene is what will keep you wanting more. So do your research, listen to artists big and small, and explore the ever-evolving indie music scene. You will be rewarded for it.
Also read: Jazz Music Appreciation: A Showcase of History & Sound