synth

PVRIS flow in spite of the challenges of life with "My Way"—listen

PVRIS are showcasing their growth on their latest track, “My Way,” via Warner Records/Reprise Records. The synth-driven song begins with the question “Do you want me to do that?” before immediately diving into an energetic beat. Lynn Gunn’s layered vocals create a gritty and unique sound, while the chorus is instantly recognizable as something a […]

Lucy Dacus knows compassion is the best way to acknowledge the past

Every morning, Lucy Dacus refrains from speaking for as long as she possibly can. It’s a routine that can keep her silent until noon most days, but she always strives for at least one hour. This practice isn’t all that surprising for someone who writes such evocative and perceptive songs, but it’s one that kept […]

Tatiana Hazel is tired of being herself in new DIY video—watch

Chicago-native Tatiana Hazel has delivered her first new solo track and official video of 2021. “Tired Of Being Myself” follows the release of her 2020 EP, DUALITY, which centered around Hazel’s resistance to being boxed into one category or label. Now the Latinx artist’s latest single highlights her DIY personality as well as her high-fashion […]

Nova Twins drop first remix with FEVER 333's sinister take on "Undertaker"

It’s been just over a year since Nova Twins dropped their debut full-length, Who Are The Girls?, and hit us full blast with their eclectic and empowering brand of thrashy punk rock. Now, in the first-ever official remix to grace their discography, “Undertaker” has been tackled by none other than alternative powerhouse FEVER 333. Spearheaded by vocalist […]

Skullcrusher channels Radiohead, My Bloody Valentine and more in new EP

When asked if she’d ever expected for her 2020 debut under Skullcrusher to receive such immediate and widespread critical acclaim, singer-songwriter Helen Ballentine at first answers with a simple “No.” “It’s quite overwhelming,” she goes on to explain. “I didn’t have that smooth transition of playing a few shows and maybe getting one blog write-up. […]

10 artists who started in one genre and then completely dominated another

All hail the genre-benders! Seriously, it’s one thing to be successful in a single genre, but to change things up and continue to excel? That’s the mark of a legend. Admittedly, most artists go through some form of sonic progression over the course of their careers. But how many can you name that distinctly embody […]

10 modern alternative artists who are channeling the sound of the ’80s

The ’80s feel like a lifetime away, and for many in the scene, they actually are (yikes). The good news is the decade has left a longstanding musical legacy. The incorporation of 1980s sound elements into modern music is hardly new, but its frequency seems to be rising. It seems impossible to turn on the […]

10 acoustic songs from heavy artists to bring it down a notch

If Fearless Records’ Punk Goes Acoustic series is indicative of anything, it’s that alternative artists can’t resist the opportunity to pick up an acoustic guitar. While a number of our favorites have opted for the occasional soft track, none are more jarring than those by heavy artists. As it turns out, the intricate melodies of […]

10 alternative artists who embraced electronica for a whole new sound

The incorporation of electronic sounds into alternative music is hardly a new phenomenon. In the mid-2000s, bands such as Cobra Starship and 3OH!3 made names for themselves in the scene with their synth-heavy infusions. And while the resulting “neon” era seemed to be short-lived, these artists were largely ahead of their time. With the mainstream […]

QUIZ: Can you tell which hometown these pop-punk artists are singing about?

Hometown pride runs deep, especially when it comes to pop punk. Whether our favorite artists sing with fond remembrance or a deep-rooted desire to get the hell out, it’s clear that their origins have shaped them pretty profoundly. While it’s easy to assume that every outfit have roots in Chicago, Los Angeles or New York […]

QUIZ: Can you match these neon-pop lyrics to the bands who sang them?

It’s impossible to picture the 2000s alternative music scene without the added flair of neon pop punk. Between its bright fashion, catchy lyrics and synth-ridden melodies, the era is the one that stands out most from the decade. Even 10 years out from the neon heyday, we’re still struggling to get a number of songs […]

Cherry Pools robbed in Los Angeles—here’s how you can help

Toronto indie-pop trio Cherry Pools were robbed last week in Los Angeles. Though their trailer was in a secure lot, the robber entered through the side of the vehicle. Read more: 14 teeny tiny tattoos to show off your love for music According to their statement posted on social media, they received a call that […]