Are you in the mood for some new indie Americana music? There’s a lot of it out there, especially if you like listening to modern folk singers.
If you’re an Americana and alt-folk music fan, you’re in luck this month. We’ve assembled a playlist of some of our favourite new releases from independent artists.
We’ve got songs that are perfect for those late nights when you need something to help you unwind after a long day; songs that will help you get through those callous times; and songs that are just fun to listen to when you want something light-hearted. All of these artists are doing amazing things with their music—and we hope you’ll take the time to check them out!
This playlist is a great way to discover new music and explore the rich history of these genres. We hope you enjoy it!
You can listen to our full playlist which contains the artists’ music, and know more about their work by scrolling down the page.
1) IMLAZARUS – Same Old Song
IMLAZARUS are an indie folk band from Minneapolis, Minnesota. This is their latest single, all about the power pop sound. They’ve got a really unique sound that’s hard to pin down and I think it’s because there are so many different elements going on at once.
There’s some alt-folk mixed in with some classic rock sounds and then there’s this really sweet, easy-going soft rock vibe that just makes everything sound great.
It is a tongue-in-cheek ragtime commentary on the importance of musicians at weddings, and how they are often overlooked. A song people know and love can never go wrong if it is the same old song they have been listening to. “Now play it again, I was in the bathroom!”
I definitely recommend checking out IMLAZARUS if you’re looking for something new to listen to! Follow them on Spotify, and visit their website!
2) NATALIE JEAN – I Can’t
Natalie Jean is a singer-songwriter from Kensington, USA. Her single “I Can’t” is an acoustic country pop song with a rock edge.
This is Natalie’s Americana/Country song that she wrote about the loss of her piano player. He passed away unexpectedly last year. She had known him for a long time and he was a close friend to her. This song is about not being able to let him go and allowing herself to grieve.
A track with this level of clarity and crispness is not overproduced or polished to the point where it becomes dull. Having instrumental breakdowns to break up the song at the appropriate time adds a great deal of variety to the songs without feeling forced or extraneous.
It’s got a lot of power—the vocals are strong and clear, and the instrumentals are well-balanced between all instruments. The track also has a great tempo that keeps things moving along nicely throughout the whole song.
If you’re interested in checking out more of ‘s music, visit their website or follow them on Spotify. I’ve included links so that you can get started right away!
3) THE MARSH FAMILY – My Storybook
The Marsh Family is an independent band from Faversham, England. Their single My Storybook is a perfect example of acoustic folk POP with a super catchy melody that will get stuck in your head for days.
In ‘My Storybook’, companionship, shared memories, and the simple things that keep us grounded are celebrated. The Marsh Family’s rich vocal range and harmonies are backed by summery ukulele, acoustic guitars and a toe-tapping chorus to mark a golden wedding anniversary in 2022.
Suitable for anyone reflecting on big life moments and changes, as well as those who shared their journey with them along the way. With their unique mix of humour, heart, and hope, the Marsh Family brought a breath of fresh air to lockdowns.
With their versatile, earthy, and independent sound ranging from folk to funk, this relatable family of six from Kent in the UK has garnered global attention.
If you’re looking for some new music to listen to this summer (or any time!), check out The Marsh Family’s website or follow them on Spotify.
4) SAID SARA – Same
Said Sara (aka David Benson) a San Francisco singer-songwriter-multi-instrumentalist who is slowly but surely making a name for himself.
Said Sara is David Benson’s alt-folk acoustic project that is a true extension of his musical and psychological essence as a singer-songwriter. The music of this artist is both all-encompassing and personal at the same time. He grew up listening to the singer-songwriters of the ’70s: Stevens, Croce, Taylor, and Buckingham, and was influenced by them as a child.
His music is very relaxing, however, it also has some gothic elements to it (darker themes). It is perfect for anyone who wants to listen to something that will make them feel good while they work or relax at home.
I recommend listening to SAID SARA if you like acoustic music with a modern twist on classic sounds. You can check out his website, and also follow him on Spotify!
5) CRAIG GOULD – Out Of The Woods
Craig Gould is a singer-songwriter from Burton on Trent, United Kingdom. His latest single, “Out Of The Woods,” is a catchy acoustic-based song that will have you singing along in no time.
Bloggers and critics who have reviewed Gould’s work around the world have drawn comparisons between Gould’s unique artistic talent and the songwriting royalty of Fleetwood Mac, Cat Stevens, John Lennon, and Bob Dylan.
He has performed at some of the most prestigious venues in the UK (Birmingham Symphony Hall, Islington Academy, Liverpool Cavern Club) over the years.
With the huge success of AIN’T NO PLACE TO HIDE and CAPTAIN OF THE SEAS (iTunes UK Country Chart #2), OUT OF THE WOODS, the next in a long line of releases, a remarkable folk tale of heartbreak and redemption that depicts both the turmoil that mental illness can cause.
As well as the joy and hope that can be found in the recovery process. There has never been a time when the ability of Gould to emotionally connect listeners to the song has been more relevant than it is today.
If you want to check out more from Craig Gould, visit his website or follow him on Spotify!
6) SAMANTHA GIBB – Sorry Not, Sorry
Samantha Gibb draws influence from country music, folk-pop, indie folk, and acoustic music. Her voice is always strong but never overbearing; instead, it adds just the right amount of emotion to the song.
A collection of Samantha’s previous releases from the year 2022 is included in Echoes: The Echo Sessions. It was her goal to give all of them a softer, acoustic/country feel. Songs on this EP address empowerment, courage, love, community, connection, and even the holidays!
The song ‘Sorry, not Sorry’ is featured on Samantha’s latest album, which is about growing up and moving on from experiences and people who might not have had a great influence on you.
It’s an upbeat acoustic track that mixes country and folk influences with pop vocals to create something completely unique. It’s perfect for those long drives along country roads with your friends or family over the holidays!
And if you’re still not convinced that Samantha Gibb is an artist worth checking out, then check out her website. You can also follow her on Spotify!
7) SHAYNE COOK – Miles Away
SHAYNE COOK has been making music for some time now. He’s a singer-songwriter based in Australia, where he creates melodies and lyrics that are easy to listen to, but hard to forget.
His latest single, Miles Away, is a perfect example of this. It’s an upbeat folk rock track with an acoustic guitar and male vocals. The song was written by Richard Grewar and Shayne Cook, and it’s one of the best pieces of music I’ve heard in a while!
This is the South African Top 3 iTunes hit that hit the iTunes UK Top 25 charts in 2023. From Nick Cave to Ainslie Wills, Bon Iver to City and Colour, and Thom York to Emma Louise, he draws inspiration from a wide range of artists
Shayne also has a website where you can find out more about him and his music. You can also follow him on Spotify!
8) AMPLIFY ME – Ginny Feat. Jenna Cogan
A bored wife and mother-to-be caught cheating, grieves the loss of her marriage, reflects on her past, and emerges embracing the unknown of living as a single and independent woman in Ginny, a dramatic tale by Dutch guitarist and songwriter Amplify Me and The Voice (USA) contestant Jenna Cogan.
With a steady beat, layers of guitar and keyboard, and intimate vocals, the guitar lines weave between steady beat, powerful and emotional guitar lines, for a sound that is both authentic and wholesome.
This song would be perfect for anyone who loves easy-listening music or classic rock singles because it has both elements combined into one single track.
If this kind of music appeals to you but you haven’t heard of Amplify Me, check them out on Spotify! And visit their YouTube also!
9) BRADLEY COPPER KETTLE & FRIENDS – Sleeve
Bradley Copper Kettle & Friends is an Americana, Country, Folk Rock band from Portsmouth, NH. They recently released their single “Sleeve”, which is a superb example of their unique sound.
the song ”Sleeve” is a relaxing, folk rock track that has a chill vibe that leaves a relatable message to the listener about going after your dreams and taking action and rolling up your sleeves to get there.
Their single “Sleeve” is a perfect example of how they manage to blend multiple genres into one. If you’re looking for something relaxing or soothing to listen to while you’re working or studying, this would be a great choice. It’s super catchy, but not distracting
It will keep your mind on task without being too boring. And if you’re feeling nostalgic for some good old-fashioned American culture, this is definitely the song for you!
This is just one example of Bradley Copper Kettle & Friends, be sure to check out their website or follow them on Spotify if you want to find more music from this amazing artist!
10) THE REVEAL – Shadows Dancin
The Reveal, a Nashville-based alt-folk band, has just released their new single “Shadows Dancin.” The song is a beautiful ode to the bluesy roots of Americana and folk rock.
It’s a classic sound with an edge—the kind of music that would fit perfectly in an indie film or on the soundtrack of your favourite HBO show.
In this song, The Reveal takes the folk instruments of mandolin, banjo, upright bass and fiddles commonly used in bluegrass music and crosses them with hip-hop drums, the 80s, and trap beats to create a modern Outlaw style that is inspired by bluegrass.
There is an EP accompanying the single “Shadows Dancin” in which the southern-street hybrid sound can be heard.
The Reveal is definitely worth checking out if you’re into acoustic tunes with an edge—you can listen to more of their music here on Spotify. And also visit their website!