It seems like every week there is a new album from a top artist hitting the charts. Meanwhile, there are thousands of indie or smaller-name artists that create stunning tracks. If you’re looking to expand your music palette, this list is for you.
Taylor Swift’s “Fate of Ophelia”
In all honesty, this track from Swift’s latest album is difficult to correlate to other songs. It’s the perfect introduction to the album with the suspense-building start, soft kick drums and mysterious pop energy — but there are a couple of songs that fit the bill.
“The Alibi” by Dylan
This song is emotional yet upbeat with a relatable narrative. It is similar to “Fate of Ophelia” with its wistful storytelling and cinematic production. While it leans more alt-pop, “The Alibi” matches Swift’s sweeping drama with airy synth and crescendo before the chorus.
“Blood Orange Wine” by Stela Cole
Cole follows a slow start that leads to pop heaven. While the tone is more grim, it shares Swift’s vocal layering and vintage shimmer. The lyricism plays with metaphor and color imagery comparable with Swift’s visual symbolism.
Sabrina Carpenter’s “House Tour”
After hearing “House Tour” once, it is likely to stay stuck in your head for at least a week. Its ‘80s synth and over-the-top production is sparkling and fun, and there are a few other songs with a retro yet contemporary quality.
“Girls Just Wanna Be Famous” by Meg Smith
This song embraces a neon sign energy, reminiscent of Cyndi Lauper’s “Girls Just Want to Have Fun.” While the lyrics are mostly lighthearted, Smith touches on downsides to dreaming of fame.
“Dirty Shirley” by Mikayla Geier
This song is fast-paced and addictive, built around flashy piano chords and a pulsing backbeat. The fizzy vocals and layering echoes Carpenter’s playful confidence, topped off with flirty lyrics and pop theatrics.
“Shapeshifting on a Saturday Night” by Avery Cochrane
The synth-pop beat is dancefloor ready. Although the lyrics are far from optimistic, there is an uplifting feel in the midst of the chaos.
Sombr’s “12 to 12”
Sombr has rapidly risen to the spotlight, amassing over 65 million monthly listeners on Spotify. His hit album “I Barely Know Her” is most known for songs like “Undressed” and “Back to Friends,” but “12 to 12” is a growing fan favorite.
“Dead in the Disco” by Arthur Hill
What makes “12 to 12” unique is how it delves into a disco-esque sound. “Dead in the Disco” best matches this vibe, and Hill succeeds in the retro feel with a clapping beat and percussive piano.
“Ricochet” by Aidan Bissett
Not only does the sound align, but the tone of the lyrics matches, underlined by Bissett’s near-desperate vocals. This song has a lighter feel but mimics the emotional urgency and bittersweet energy.
“Cherry Thrill” by Movements
This single might qualify as a hear me out, but there is something about this track that always reminds me of “12 to 12.” Both songs create a late-night intensity and rhythmic tension, bonding over the risk of romance.
“Dive Bar Named Nirvana” by Dogpark
This track felt most fitting for “12 to 12,” but there were moments that aligned with “House Tour” in its playful lyrical imagery and smooth synth layering. However, the moodier male vocals and disco-pop undertones are closer to Sombr’s sound.
For those looking to listen to these tracks, check out this Spotify playlist.