This year did quite a number on us. Whether it was your best year yet or one you wish you could forget, 2018 brought us plenty of musical gems. Check out these top indie picks that this year has ushered in:
“White Frost” – Tall Heights
I had the privilege of seeing Tall Heights live on their Pretty Colors for Your Actions Tour. Their live set was even better than the studio recording and they found a new fan in me. “White Frost” encompasses their sound and passions perfectly. Check them out if you’re looking for some chill jams from a hilarious group of dudes.
“Arizona” – Frances Cone
Another great band I happened upon, I met Frances Cone when she opened for Tall Heights. She’s got a killer range and the spunk to really make it in the industry. I hope to see her again someday when she’s headlining her own show.
“You Belong” – Fly By Midnight
I discovered Fly By Midnight when I interviewed them for Heart Eyes Magazine. Even though the interview was conducted through email, their personalities clearly came through their answers and it made me love their style and music even more. And the “You Belong” music video keeps you entertained the entire time with fun overlapping storylines and beautiful colors.
“Nicotine” – Laramie
This one’s a bop. I have a lot more to say about it, but you’d understand a little bit better if you check out my full review. Just know this song is incredible and you’ll have it on repeat.
“Sun Like Gold / Moon Like Silver” – David Lunsford
Like any good folk song, “Sun Like Gold / Moon Like Silver” is perfect for a summer road trip or those quiet reflective moments as you watch winter melt into spring. Make sure to add it to your nostalgic playlist as me move into 2019.
“Hot Heavy Summer” – Ben Howard, Sylvan Esso
This was the first song I reviewed with Two Story Melody. I remember the morning vividly. I sat at my kitchen table with a candle lit as the rain softly tapped on the glass of my sliding door. So excited to begin this journey of writing in an industry that I adore, the sound of “Hot Heavy Summer” matched my calm anticipation perfectly and I knew this was the beginning of something special.
“Feel The Waters” – Sarah Reeves
Although a member of the Contemporary Christian genre, Sarah Reeves fits perfectly in the indie scene. We’ve seen successful crossovers before — case in point: Lauren Daigle. With an airy, sultry sound similar to that of Ellie Goulding, I don’t think we’ve seen the last of Sarah Reeves.
“Party Song” – Oceanic
New to the indie scene, Oceanic finds their roots in Lynchburg, VA. But don’t cast them aside because they’re young college students. They were in the running for a GRAMMY nomination this year and their potential is only growing. I’m betting 2019 will be just the beginning for the boys of Oceanic.
“Poor Boy” – The Regrettes
A little more on the alt-pop/rock spectrum instead of indie, but I couldn’t leave this off the list. “Poor Boy” has such a fun beat, I can’t help bopping along. The Regrettes are definitely on my list of bands to see live.
“Simple Romance” – COIN
If you know me at all, you know I couldn’t leave COIN off my list. They hold a special place in my heart and I can’t wait to see them again.
Whether you’re new to the indie scene or a seasoned veteran, you can’t deny 2018 has given us plenty of gems. Add these to your playlist and 2019 will be off to a stellar start.
