This edition of LITM Pop Picks brings to you indie-pop, stunning synthpop, distinct alt rock, and more. The list features artists dummy co., The Pennydrops, BAIBA and more.
dummy co. - MAX OUT
Bringing to you a sound you would not have engaged with before, ‘MAX OUT’ by dummy co. in collaboration with Kool Karlo will have you under its grip. The instrumentation is really interesting, as it balances itself between a distinct synthpop and punk sound, bringing to you very contrasting vibes gelled together – the rugged grit of punk and the groove of synthpop. The song has a very futuristic tone to it, with its glitchy sounds and also a certain daredevil tone to it. Lyrically the song approaches reality through tones of sarcasm and sincerity, as it delves into ideas of catharsis through messy manners.
The Pennydrops - Boundary
Carrying in it the melodies of a very distinct alternative rock sound, ‘Boundary’ by The Pennydrops will have you coming back to it numerous times post the first listen. The instrumentation will remind you of the sound that The Smashing Pumpkins employ in their music – a rock sound balancing itself between softness and vigour filled expression. The dual vocals in the song is a beautiful choice for it gives the song dimensions, allowing the listener to engage with the track in a more intimate manner. Dreamy and wistful, this song finds its roots in earlier music but ends up creating something truly original, something that will stand the test of time.
BAIBA - Loser
Employing a very late 2010s pop sound, ‘Loser’ by BAIBA carries the tunes and colours of the summer but holds in it tones of sharp honesty that stays relevant throughout the seasons. The instrumentation leans on synthpop heavily but also has light, airy electric guitars that contribute to the emotional quotient of the track, percussion that give the song its direction and rhythm. BAIBA’s vocals hold an unabashed sense of honesty, that sees things for what they are and is not afraid of confrontation. Groovy and emotional at the same time, this song can be heard in the clubs and can be heard in a lonely evening at home.
ATF - Your Touch
Blending retro synths with a modern fast paced, energetic pop sound, ‘Your Touch’ by ATF will have your senses drowning with intoxication. The instrumentation has a unique blend of vibes, leaning towards both a certain level of darkness and brightness – it lies between dark clouds and euphoric sunbursts. The layering of synths and the tones they employ land the song within an atmosphere that is riddled with desire and yearning. The vocals perfectly mirror the rush that the instrumentation embodies within its layers. Give this song a listen, and before you know it you will be hitting the rewind button.
PRAYZVIBES - High Week
Starting off with a bright, sunshine-y piano progression, ‘High Week’ by PRAYZVIBES finds itself in a sweet spot as it lies between the indie-pop genre and the indie-folk genre. The instrumentation has been delicately and carefully built, with guitars, pianos, bass, light drum patterns coming together to form an intricate yet beautifully simple sound that will immediately have your heart smiling and feeling light. The vocals also carry the light that the instruments in the track carry, and they make you sway your head from side to side and imagine yourself cycling through a beautiful countryside place, with joy in your heart and on your face.
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