Angie Martoccio, Jon Dolan, and Simon Vozick-Levinson join the host to discuss the best indie-rock albums of 2023, highlighting breakthrough acts, sonic experimentation, and unique sounds. They touch on anticipated upcoming releases, a Bob Marley biopic, and a collaboration for financial empowerment. The hosts also delve into the unconventional success of Water From Your Eyes and the intimate, experimental vs classic indie rock albums. They explore an artist's previous work, influences, and upcoming album, and discover the unique sound of Pope Song, an England-based band.
Indie rock in 2023 showcased a diverse range of sounds, drawing from different eras and subgenres to create unique music.
The evolution of indie rock is reflected in the changing dynamics of the music industry, with artists embracing new sounds and influences while pushing boundaries.
Deep dives
An Exciting Year for Indie Rock
The podcast episode discusses indie rock in 2023, highlighting it as a strong year for the genre. The host is joined by staff members from Rolling Stone to discuss their favorite albums and the overall state of indie rock. They mention the success of Boy Genius and Blanchell, two indie rock releases that stood out to them. They also discuss the breakout success of Mitzki and the unique sound of Water From Your Eyes. The episode highlights other notable indie rock albums, including ones by Joanna Sternberg, Wilco, and Partner. They explore various subgenres within indie rock and emphasize the diversity of sound within the genre.
Diverse Sounds and Influences in Indie Rock
The podcast episode delves into the variety of sounds and influences present in indie rock in 2023. They discuss how artists in the genre are drawing from different eras and subgenres to create unique music. They mention bands like Bar Italia, Ian Sweet, and Tracy Denham who experiment with different styles and incorporate elements of post-punk, droniness, and synth-pop. The hosts highlight the evolution of indie rock and how it continues to push boundaries while maintaining a sense of nostalgia. They also touch on the influence of Coldplay and the resurgence of 90s-inspired indie rock sounds.
Standout Albums and Artists
The podcast episode features discussions about standout albums and artists in the indie rock scene in 2023. They praise artists like Annie Blackman, Katie Von Schleicher, and Bullies for their unique approaches to songwriting and sound. The hosts mention specific songs and lyrics that stood out to them, highlighting the introspective and personal nature of the music. They also commend artists like US Girls and Tracy Denham for incorporating social commentary into their songs. The episode recognizes the talent and potential of emerging artists in indie rock, predicting they will have a significant impact in the future.
The Changing Landscape of Indie Rock
The podcast episode explores the changing landscape of indie rock and how artists are embracing new sounds and influences. They discuss how musicians are moving away from traditional indie rock tropes and incorporating elements of country, folk, and pop into their music. The hosts note the resurgence of guitar-driven indie rock and the importance of experimentation within the genre. They highlight how artists like Julian Medford of Ian Sweet and Tracy Denham are unapologetically embracing pop influences. The episode also discusses how the success and evolution of indie rock is reflected in the changing dynamics of the music industry.
In the first of our series on the best music you may have missed in 2023, we take a look at the year's indie-rock albums, from Blondshell to Wednesday to Ian Sweet, with Angie Martoccio, Jon Dolan, and Simon Vozick-Levinson joining host Brian Hiatt