NYS Music 2024

Tag: Indie-pop

  • Olivia Reid Releases Heartwarming New Single “Love Don’t Leave”

    Indie-pop artist Olivia Reid has announced the release of her latest heartwarming single “Love Don’t Leave.”

    Based in NYC, Olivia Reid’s unique production style blends indie acoustics with exploratory pop soundscapes, creating a distinctive sonic space to express her most inward emotions. Reid’s artistic style fuses the expressive sounds of artists like Bon Iver, Norah Jones, Sylvan Esso, and Florence + The Machine, with the intensely emotional experiences she channels.

    “Love Don’t Leave” is a song about the little elements of connection that feel so simple, yet make love feel deep and pure. That purity and depth of connection is the very thing that makes the hard times in life sting less. The track begins with an otherworldly soothing aura that entices and pacifies the listener in the best ways possible.

    The track combines Olivia’s signature indie-pop sound whilst also implementing notes of folk and even country. The track is upbeat, yet lowkey. Its full of life and vibrancy yet is suited to soothe and relax the audience. The theme here is love and Olivia Reid does a beautiful job at conveying the message that love is simple but extraordinary and deep. The dynamic nature of the track truly speaks to the impressive songwriting abilities of the artist.

    “Love Don’t Leave” is the first song off of her forthcoming EP and is born out of Reid’s centering experiences in Poland’s countryside. She describes the track as a love letter to love, which is the perfect explanation of the song’s overall feel. The EP, titled soft songs for the soul, is to be released in the coming months and will be available on all streaming services.

    For more information on Olivia Reid and to hear her latest single “Love Don’t Leave,” visit her website by clicking here.

  • Foster The People Announce ‘Paradise State of Mind Tour’ with Stop at Brooklyn Paramount in February

    Famed indie-pop group Foster The People have announced their anticipated Paradise State of Mind Tour which sees a single stop at Brooklyn Paramount on February 24, 2025.

    The upcoming North American headline tour is set to hit 23 cities in all, including a stop in Brooklyn, NY at the Brooklyn Paramount on February 24, 2025. The tour begins October 11 in Austin, Texas, and finishes on March 6, 2025 in Dallas, Texas. Foster The People will host special guest Good Neighbours for the entirety of the tour. The eagerly awaited tour celebrates the recent arrival of Foster The People’s acclaimed new album, Paradise State of Mind. The album is highlighted by such acclaimed tracks as “Chasing Low Vibrations,” “Take Me Back” and the cosmically catchy first single, “Lost In Space.”

    The band continues to celebrate Paradise State of Mind with a top-billed appearance at Austin, TX’s Austin City Limits Music Festival, both last weekend Friday, October 4th and on Friday, October 11. Foster The People first marked the album’s arrival this summer with an intimate pair of sold-out live dates at New York City’s Bowery Ballroom and Los Angeles, CA’s The Roxy Theatre as well as an electrifying performance of “Lost In Space” on NBC’s The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon.

    FOSTER THE PEOPLE PARADISE STATE OF MIND TOUR 2024/2025

    WITH SPECIAL GUEST GOOD NEIGHBOURS

    JANUARY 2025

    25 – Seattle, WA – The Paramount Theatre

    27 – Vancouver, BC – Queen Elizabeth Theatre

    28 – Portland, OR – Crystal Ballroom

    31 – Oakland, CA – Fox Theater ^

    FEBRUARY 2025

    3 – Santa Ana, CA – The Observatory

    4 – Phoenix, AZ – The Van Buren

    6 – Los Angeles, CA – Hollywood Palladium

    8  – Las Vegas, NV – Fontainebleau Las Vegas

    11 – Salt Lake City, UT – The Union Event Center

    12 – Denver, CO – The Fillmore Denver

    14 – Minneapolis, MN – The Fillmore Minneapolis presented by Affinity Plus

    15 – Chicago, IL – The Salt Shed

    17 – Detroit, MI – The Fillmore Detroit

    18 – Toronto, ON – HISTORY

    19 – Montreal, QC – MTELUS

    21 – Philadelphia, PA – The Fillmore Philadelphia

    22 – Boston, MA – Citizens House of Blues Boston

    24 – Brooklyn, NY – Brooklyn Paramount

    27 – Raleigh, NC – The Ritz

    28 – Atlanta, GA – Tabernacle

    MARCH 2025

    3 – New Orleans, LA – The Fillmore New Orleans

    5 – Houston, TX – House of Blues

    6 – Dallas, TX – House of Blues

    * Festival Appearance

    ^ Non-Live Nation Date

    “I think the trickiest part about this record was trying to be authentic about what had been going on with me, without writing something super dark and without glossing over it, either. Because, to me, it was really important that hope remain at the core of this whole thing. People need hope. I need hope. And when I think about what hope is – it’s having the courage to walk towards something that you think can be better, while fully acknowledging the darkness and reality around you. That was the goal, walking into this album, which was actually really tricky – to make something that rang true to what was on my mind, but that had this much groove and that would be fun to dance to. You know, to me, they’re like Trojan Horses, the message is hiding in the melody.”

    Mark Foster

    For more information on Foster The People’s upcoming Paradise State of Mind Tour, and to purchase tickets, click here.

  • Wasia Project Brings Classical Indie Jazz to NYC

    The Artist

    Hailing from the UK, Wasia Project has quickly become one of the most exciting indie bands on the rise. The sibling duo Olivia Hardy and William Gao (along with drummer Luca Wade and bassist Tom Pacitti), fuse together jazz, classical, and indie pop, creating a sound that is as soothing as it is emotionally charged. With heartfelt lyrics and lush arrangements, the band has won over a dedicated fanbase both in the UK and overseas.

      The Show

      On Monday, Sept 30, night one in NYC of the “Isotope Tour” kicked off— and it did not disappoint. The show began with an atmospheric interlude, “Isotope,” which set the mood for an introspective and emotional night. Wasia Project then launched into “My Lover Is Sleeping”, immediately captivating the crowd with Olivia’s dreamy, tender vocals. The audience was buzzing, absorbing every word, as the band poured their hearts out on stage.

      A key standout moment was “Petals on the Moon,” which had the entire venue jamming to William’s piano solo. The duo’s chemistry on stage is undeniable, and their shared musical bond radiated through every track, but especially on “Burning Eyes Are Calling” and “How Can I Pretend,” where Olivia’s emotive voice soared over William’s intricate piano melodies.

      “U R So Pretty” was an emotional high point in the set, with its delicate lyrics and vulnerability. The song had the crowd cheering, resonating deeply with everyone in the room. The night’s energy took a shift with “My Vine” and “Cover,” with Olivia’s vocals floating effortlessly over lush instrumentals.

      The band’s raw emotion, combined with their experimental soundscapes, made for a captivating debut performance in New York City. If you missed them this time, be sure to catch Wasia Project soon —they’re just getting started, and their future looks incredibly bright.

      Setlist: Isotope (Interlude Intro), Is This What Love Is, My Lover Is Sleeping, U Deserve, Petals on the Moon, How can I pretend, Burning Eyes Are Calling, Takes Me Back Home, Remember When, U R So Pretty, My Vine, Cover, To Get Better, Somebody Come Through, Tell Me Lies

    • Wallows Bring “Model” to Philly

      Wallows, the Los Angeles-based indie rock trio, has been captivating audiences since their formation in 2017. Made of Braeden Lemasters, Dylan Minnette, and Cole Preston, Wallows boasts a signature blend of nostalgic 90s alt-rock and modern indie-pop. Over time, they’ve consistently delivered infectious hits that have earned them both critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase.

      Their live performances are where Wallows truly shine. Known for their electric energy and dynamic stage presence, each member of the band brings something unique to the table. Their individual contributions combine to create a show that is both sonically and visually captivating. Their shows are more than just concerts—they are experiences that leave fans with lasting memories.

      The Show

      Wallows’ show at The Mann in Philadelphia was spectacular, showcasing the band’s growth and their connection with their audience. They created memorable moments throughout the evening, making it a night that Philly fans won’t forget.

      As the show kicked off, Wallows took to the main stage with “Do Not Wait,” immediately drawing the crowd in. Braeden kept the crowd engaged throughout the night, seamlessly transitioning from talking about Philly’s national treasures to introducing “Quarterback” by joking, “If Benjamin Franklin was alive right now, I think he’d be into football. Speaking of football…” Cole then took over on vocals, and the crowd was loving every minute.

      The Mann, with its expansive and almost boat-like feel (as noted by Cole), provided the perfect backdrop for Wallows’ dynamic setlist. From fan favorites like “Scrawny” and “These Days” to deeper cuts like “Drunk on Halloween,” the band delivered a performance that had the audience singing along and dancing throughout the night. One of the standout moments of the night was when Dylan made his way through the crowd during “She’s an Actress,” holding hands with fans and bringing an extra layer of intimacy to the show.

      The guys surprised the crowd on the B-Stage by performing “Ground,” a song they hadn’t played on the Model Tour until now. They followed this with a haunting rendition of “Drunk on Halloween,” which further cemented the band’s ability to captivate their audience with both their sound and their presence.

      As the band transitioned back to the main stage, they brought the night to a close with a powerful sequence of songs, including “Worlds Apart,” during which Braeden made his way back through the crowd, and the crowd-favorite “Are You Bored Yet?” The energy in the venue was palpable, with fans singing every word and savoring every moment.

      Looking Forward

      If you missed Wallows on this tour , don’t worry—you can catch them when they’re in New York. Their live shows are an unforgettable experience, and this band is only getting better with time. Catch them live, and be prepared for a night full of incredible music, memorable interactions, and an atmosphere that will stay with you long after the last note has been played.

      Setlist:

      Main Stage
      Do Not Wait, Your Apartment, [Anytime, Always], Scrawny, Don’t You Think It’s Strange, Quarterback, Bad Dream, These Days, You (Show Me Where My Days Went), At the End of the Day, Just Like a Movie, A Warning, Uncomfortable, She’s an Actress

      B Stage
      Pictures of Girls, Ground (Tour debut), Drunk on Halloween
      Main Stage
      Worlds Apart, Pleaser, Calling After Me, Remember When, I Don’t Want to Talk, Are You Bored Yet?

      Article photos by Emma Wannie, Gallery photos by Chloe Dugord

    • Ellie Announces EP Release at Rockwood Music Hall

      New York City-based trans pop artist Ellie will release her upcoming EP, Forbidden Fruit, on June 14. She will release her newest single, “Not Like Other Girls,” on Tuesday, June 11.

      Along with the release of her EP, Ellie will be hosting a free release show at Rockwood Music Hall, located in the Bowery neighborhood of Manhattan. The show will take place on Thursday, June 13, at 9 pm.

      ellie forbidden fruit

      As a trans woman, Ellie uses “Not Like Other Girls” as a response to the nationwide increase of transphobic rhetoric. The idea of her being “not like other girls” plays a cheeky spin on the popular phrase used to tear women down.

      In the song, Ellie jokes, “I’m not like other girls, I’m worse.” With the chorus, she manages to send a sarcastic message to everyone with strict and bigoted expectations of women and trans people.

      So many people (the majority of which are cis) have LOTS to say about trans people.
      So, why not talk back for once?

      Ellie

      The tense themes that are in “Not Like Other Girls” extend throughout the EP. The single discusses the expectations of what women should be, which are oftentimes exclusionary of transgender women.

      One of the most eye-opening lyrics is actually one of Ellie’s favorites: “Make all your friends turn to envious wrecks as they question the dogmas they bark.” The line implies that by defying society’s expectations, people will begin to wonder why they exist in the first place. Questioning society is exactly the point.

      With the help of fast-paced, energetic pop-rock, Ellie’s single and EP send a relatable, funny message anyone could enjoy. The heavy rock music behind Ellie’s vocals emphasizes the intensity and frustration of the song’s message.

      Join Ellie on June 13 at Rockwood Music Hall in Bowery, Manhattan, for a free release party! The venue is located right off the F train stop on 2 Av.

      Ellie’s Forbidden Fruit will be available on all streaming platforms starting June 14th. For the full EP, fans can visit here.

    • In Focus: Ricky Montgomery’s Return to NYC

      Ricky Montgomery‘s electrifying performance at Terminal 5 in Manhattan on February 24th was a testament to his magnetic stage presence and undeniable talent. Returning to New York after his stint accompanying Cavetown on the “Bittersweet Daze” Tour, Ricky shared intimate moments with his adoring fans, weaving together a setlist of old favorites and new tracks from his latest album, Rick.

      As the crowd erupted in anticipation, Ricky took the stage with a burst of energy, kicking off the night with his signature anthem “Line Without a Hook.” The surprise appearance of mxmtoon for the alternate version of the song elevated the performance to new heights, with both artists radiating infectious energy as they interacted with fans at the barricade.

      Throughout the evening, Ricky’s charm and wit shone through, as he shared anecdotes about his time living in New York and reminisced about his early days as a musician. Songs like “Last Night” and “Ethan’s Song” took on new meaning as Ricky poured his heart out on stage, drawing fans closer with each heartfelt lyric.

      The atmosphere crackled with excitement during the debut of “Unknown Phantom,” with Ricky playfully urging the crowd to “go crazy” at the behest of his label. Moments of pure euphoria ensued as fans echoed Ricky’s every word, shouting declarations of love and support into the air.

      During the encore, Ricky’s energy remained undiminished as he returned to the stage with opener Noah Floersch for a rousing rendition of “This December,” igniting the crowd with an electrifying finale. From the soul-stirring melodies of “My Heart Is Buried in Venice” to the anthemic chorus of “Don’t Say That,” Ricky Montgomery’s performance was a masterclass in emotion and authenticity, leaving an indelible impression on all who were lucky enough to witness it.

      Setlist: Line Without a Hook (featuring mxmtoon), In Your Pocket, Cabo, One Way Mirror, Talk to You, Black Fins, I Don’t Love You Anymore, Type A, Last Night, Truth or Dare, Unknown Phantom (Unreleased), Snow, Ethan’s Song, My Heart Is Buried in Venice (Acoustic), Boy Toy, It’s Ok to Cry, Don’t Say That, Out Like a Light

      Encore: Sometimes I Need to Be Alone, This December, Mr Loverman

    • Gramercy Arms Announce Latest Power Pop Single, “After the After Party”

      NYC-based Indie-pop group Gramercy Arms has announced the release of their latest single, “After the After Party.” The track is also the opening tune on their upcoming album, The Making Of the Making Of.

      The “revolving” collective is masterminded by Dave Derby and producer, Ray Ketchem. The latest single is a yearnful power-pop work of art about regret and missed opportunities. The latest Gramercy Arms track was produced, recorded and mixed by Ray Ketchem at Magic Door Recording in Montclair, NJ. This record was mastered with help from award-winning engineer Greg Calbi.

      Gramercy Arms has an interesting ability of making a sad song feel happy, and vice versa. “After the After Party” does exactly that. The tune has upbeat, poppy guitar and vocals, but with a note of melancholy. The indie and alternative guitar tones allow for a glimpse of nostalgic regret to sneak in. Those same guitar tones allow for a summery reminiscence within a soup of blueness.

      Stay updated on Gramercy Arms and their upcoming album, The Making Of the Making Of. For more information on the band’s single, and other projects, click here.

    • “Feels Nice” – Crystal Caverns’ Latest Single Bursts on the Scene

      On December 22, Indie-Pop duo Crystal Caverns, hailing from Rockaway Beach, Queens released their single titled, “Feels Nice.”

      crystal caverns

      With clear vocal influence from artists like Björk, and a melodic-angsty sound similar to Juice Wrld, this single showcases the vibe Crystal Caverns is curating. Driving basslines, cinematic keys, and ethereal vocals round out their sound. From the slow, melodic build up in the beginning, to the transition into vocal harmony, this track keeps you engaged. With whimsical synth, a punchy 80s percussion, and a plethora of intricate sounds, the instrumentation couples well with the melodic vocals.

      Originating from Rockaway Beach, Queens, Jae t’Aime and Jason Alex Grey make up the two minds of the duo. With Jae on lead vocals, keys, and programming, Jason on vocals, bass, and guitars, the duo covers plenty of ground and sound of the sonic landscape. The duo has also announced they will be playing two shows in NYC in January.

      Upcoming Crystal Caverns Shows:

      1/24/24 @ Mercury Lounge – 8PM

      Listen to Crystal Caverns’ new single, “Feel’s Nice”below.

      https://soundcloud.com/crystalcavernsmusic/feels-nice