By Maggie Schneider
For me, a new season brings new music. Just as the color of the leaves change in autumn, I believe that great new music comes out matching the moods and feelings of what each day has to offer. I love discovering new artists and bands year-round, and, with the help of my friends, I’ve created a list of five awesome artists/bands to jam to while sipping your pumpkin spice lattes.
The Night Game
If you’re looking for an ’80s-inspired indie-pop project, then you will love The Night Game. The group is fronted by Martin Johnson, who was also the front man of pop/punk group, Boys Like Girls. Their debut full-length album is the perfect way to transition into fall because it’s dynamic, emotional and really relatable. The album explores darker themes and reminisces on past relationships while remaining catchy and commercial.
For fans of: The 1975, The Police, The Band CAMINO
Standout tracks: “The Outfield” and “Coffee and Cigarettes”
With Confidence
With Confidence is one of my favorite pop/punk bands right now. The group is originally from Australia, and has released their second album on Hopeless Records. “Love and Loathing” is a fun and lively rock record that is the perfect addition to your party playlist! Their optimistic, yet mature songwriting will have you smiling through autumn and even into winter.
For fans ff: All Time Low, 5 Seconds of Summer, Plain White T’s
Standout tracks: “Sing to Me” and “Paquerette (Without Me)”
The Wrecks
The Wrecks know how to write catchy indie-rock tunes. Their “Panic Vertigo EP” has gained a lot of traction since its’ release in Feb., and the band has done so much since then — including performing at the 2018 Lollapalooza Festival in Chicago. Their music has a confident, bad-boy attitude that stays fresh every time you listen.
For fans of: SWMRS, The All-American Rejects, We the Kings
Standout tracks: “James Dean” and “Figure This Out”
The Aces
The Aces is an all-girl indie pop band — what more could you want? The group uses their platform for good, spreading themes of positivity and feminism through their music. They’re all about girls sticking together through love, heartbreak and many other things we all face in life. Expect a lot of catchy hooks, sassy lyrics and confident vocals.
For fans of: Hayley Kiyoko, COIN, The Bangles
Standout tracks: “Last One” and “Bad Love”
Computer Games
I think that it’s safe to say that you know who Darren Criss is. The award-winning actor has starred on Broadway and in many television shows like “Glee,” and most recently, “American Crime Story: The Assassination of Gianni Versace.” What you may not know is that he’s released original music as a singer/songwriter! His “Homework EP” is a culmination of acoustic guitar-driven songs that tell really beautiful stories. Criss also includes his folky rendition of “I Dreamed a Dream” from “Les Miserables,” which is outstanding. The whole EP is mellow and has a lot of heart. Since March 2017, Criss created the indie band Computer Games with his brother Chuck.
For fans of: Ingrid Michaelson, Sara Bareilles, Jason Mraz
Standout Tracks: “Lost Boys Life” and “Every Single Night”
