Chill alternative indie music can help you focus and become more productive, while at the same time helping you relax or unwind. It’s a perfect combination!
Nation of Language are an exemplary alternative indie band that effortlessly mix chill and energy in their sound, recalling the new-wave/synth pop scene from the 1980s.
1. “Electric Love” by Helado Negro
Helado Negro is a masterful sound explorer who seamlessly fuses folk, experimental-electronic sounds, Latin music, and Spanish lyrics in our Take Away Show. His musical talents also extend to live performances with The Tinsel Mammals performing live across the nation interpreting Helado’s music through dance choreography.
Helado reminds us to look within for light and hope when life can feel overwhelming, through his latest album This Is How You Smile. With its soothing ambient sounds that transport listeners to a place of peace and serenity, his new record provides a welcome respite from daily stressors.
Roberto Carlos Lange has been making music under various aliases for over a decade, debuting Helado Negro with Awe Owe on Asthmatic Kitty Records in 2009. Additionally, his releases can be found under ROM, Epstein and Savath + Savalas; Helado Negro stands as his most collaborative project to date, collaborating with Prefuse 73’s Guillermo Scott Herren as well as Matt Crum of Feathers and Bear in Heaven for this album release.
Helado Negro’s musical themes have evolved with him over time. His 2016 release Private Energy draws heavily on Latin soul and dub from the 1970s; its emphasis is affirmation of Latinx identity and community. Songs like “Young Latin and Proud” and “It’s My Brown Skin” explore this perception that brown skin may provide as both protection from spiritual light and an indicator of identity.
Alternative indie music is an eclectic genre that draws upon elements from rock, pop and electronica to produce its distinctive sound. Though less mainstream than other styles, alternative indie is still an excellent way to explore something with more unconventional and experimental sounds – be it relaxing or inspiring; our selection of the best chill alternative indie music offers something for all!
2. “Tongue Tied” by Grouplove
Grouplove was one of the most beloved festival acts during the first decade of this century. From Glee to their infectiously playful concerts, Grouplove had an engaged following of both Millennials and Zoomers that made every show an instant party. Their debut LP Never Trust a Happy Song displayed their eclectic and enjoyable style, featuring snarling guitars combining with glitchy beats while Hannah Hooper and Christian Zucconi provided melodic bliss alongside their harmony vocals.
“Tongue Tied” is an anthem for strong relationships that extend past physical goodbyes in life. The narrator begs not to be taken away suddenly or waved off; instead they plead that their loved one stay near. The chorus’ repeated plea “Take me to your best friend’s house” further reinforces this concept of safe havens where both parties remain together.
Indie rock is a diverse musical genre that blends different styles into one. This subgenre has been around for decades and continues to thrive even as other musical forms change and shift. While “indie” was originally used to refer to anything outside mainstream music, the term has evolved over time into meaning independent bands or artists without contracts with big record labels – some indie bands may become mainstream hitmakers while many remain independent and explore music independently – making this an excellent option for music fans looking for fresh sounds to discover!
3. “Lovefool” by Phoenix
Phoenix are an outstanding example of the indie rock genre. Their music embodies both chill and emo styles, telling a compelling narrative through each track they produce – no wonder their songs have become such popular hits with listeners! If you enjoy listening to emotive music, be sure to check them out – especially Phoenix!
In the 90s, “indie” was often used as a synonym for albums that didn’t adhere to mainstream formulas and retain an underground sound despite being released through major labels. Since then, indie has evolved into more of an independent artist label, known for its eclectic sounds and off-kilter melodies such as Arcade Fire, Modest Mouse and Vampire Weekend to name just three of its biggest bands.
Phoenix released their debut release over two decades ago, boasting meticulous production and candy-sweet hooks designed for festival stages as well as intimate cocktail bars. Even after becoming huge, headlining Coachella and lending “1901” to Cadillac commercials – they never lost that quirky charm.
Given their six albums and nearly 30 years together, one might wonder whether French quartet Alpha Zulu could continue to bring out its trademark sound with such gusto and consistency. Yet on Alpha Zulu, their iconic synthesizers and buoyant chords sound just as vibrant and lively as ever.
Phoenix recorded most of their album at the Musee des Arts Decoratifs wing of the Louvre where Phoenix found the atmosphere to be both invigorating and inspirational. One song which captured this energy is “Winter Solstice”, featuring four-on-the-floor kick drum and neon synths as Thomas Mars sings of how hard it can be to connect with others in this age of technological excess.
This song serves as an anthem for anyone feeling stuck and wanting to move forward, making a powerful message resonate across a range of listeners ages and genres. Additionally, its catchy melody and catchy chorus will ensure its popularity among any audience member.
4. “1901” by Phoenix
“1901”, from French indie rock band Phoenix, is an engaging alternative indie song with a memorable chorus that transcends genre boundaries. Additionally, an underpinning bassline adds some depth and texture. Released in February 2009 and peaking at number 73 on Canada’s Alternative Songs chart (and number 84 on US’s). English singer Birdy covered this tune, as well as featuring it on UK comedy series Friday Night Dinner.
Indie music is an artistic, diverse form of expression that breaks free of conventional genres. It blends elements of rock, pop, electronica and jazz into its unique sound – often associated with rebellion against mainstream musical trends – while emphasizing individuality over conformity. Indie rock bands such as Arcade Fire, Modest Mouse and Vampire Weekend fall within this subset; typically with unique sounds that are difficult to categorize.
Other popular indie rock bands include The Decemberists, Fleet Foxes and Paramore. Of these groups, many indie music fans particularly admire The Decemberists due to their critically acclaimed albums and strong vocals and lyrics; it is also great for fans who prefer emo rock bands because of strong vocals and lyrics. Fleet Foxes, an American folk rock group from Portland Oregon with their debut album receiving critical acclaim was another stand-out indie rock group to check out as it became an unexpectedly huge hit across America!