This edition of LITM Rock Picks brings you soothing, psychedelic indie rock, along with some early-2000s nostalgia from the artists David Howls, Defined By, Shannon Hudson, Alexander Nantschev, and Weekday Social.
1. David Howls – Hooked
David Howls’s latest track, ‘Hooked’, is a case of alt-rock soft-serve blended with visceral imagery, driven by an uplifting beat that evokes scenes of romance and carnage all at once. The lyrics blur the lines between love and addiction, with lines like “I’m like a drug to you” and “I’m hooked,” before listeners realize the narrator is actually bidding farewell to the relationship. This cleverly recontextualizes the initial impression of the upbeat mood. Musically, the arrangement layers loaded guitars atop passionate drumbeats and vocals, creating washes of overdrive to deliver a pent-up emotional kick. If you’re looking for edgy romance or fresh post-breakup rock, this is a great track to dive into.
2. Defined By – Monopoly
Defined By weaves poetry and hypnosis on their latest track, ‘Monopoly’. The indie rock number delivers both a soothing, raw front and a strong, punchy rhythm. It starts off with a pensive, arpeggiated guitar riff and melancholy, raspy vocals before plunging into grungy, rockier territory with the chorus, “It’s never enough for you.” The lead vocals bring the perfect texture and segue—gentle yet strong—as the instrumental backdrop builds into a rhythmic flow, balancing silky and crispy guitar textures in the mix. Overall, it feels like the ideal 2 AM track to get lost in and keep you company.
3. Shannon Hudson – Cross Stitch
‘Cross Stitch’ is one of those hidden gems that is quietly brilliant, low-key, and invigorating. Sitting somewhere in the Venn diagram of indie rock, alternative, and Americana, the track kicks off already locked-in with a frenetic guitar solo and Hudson’s energetic vocals. It’s upbeat with an unmissable, lively bassline—best experienced with a good pair of headphones. The rhythm shifts and warps, taking the instrumentation through distinct moods, while the lyrics cleverly use the imagery of cloth and clothing to tie into themes of connection and relationships. Definitely a track not to miss! Check it out here-
4. Alexander Nantschev – Little Ship (Half A Century)
If you’re looking for a song to accompany you while you’re stargazing or even wall-staring, ‘Little Ship’ is the one to put on. Sitting comfortably between soft rock and psychedelia, this one starts slow with a steady, bass-driven beat and quiet strings that accompany soft, far-away vocals that gently drift closer. The gentle arpeggiations and lilting harmonies create a floaty, cozy headspace, drawing the listener deeper into the song’s airspace before taking “off to infinity,” as the lyrics go. The track offers a fresh bright-and-dark sound mix, perfect for anyone looking to switch up their soundscape. Check it out here-
5. Weekday Social – So Close
This track carries the early 2000s feel of punchy rock anthems you’d play on repeat. It captures the spirit of an Avril Lavigne track paired with the modern edge of Fontaines D.C., blending nostalgic guitar overdrives with rustic vocals. The song opens with heavy, fast-paced guitar work as the beat shifts from peppy and energetic to easygoing and punchy. The instrumental riffs and core melody are infectiously catchy without feeling predictable. The lead singer’s delivery is spot-on, hitting that nostalgic sweet spot for a vibey track that's bound to become an earworm. Give it a listen here-
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