Complied by Nathan Miller – The music industry is worlds away from where it was before the digital era. 20 years ago, the notion of kickstarting a music career with limited resources and no record label wouldn’t have been practical for most, but nowadays it’s common practice. More and more artists are being self-sufficient or signing to small indie labels rather than the majors (Sony, Warner and Universal), with the rise of the internet and digital platforms such as iTunes, YouTube, Spotify and TikTok now making this a more feasible option, and some of the best music out there today comes from these artists. In this recurring column, we’ll be uncovering and highlighting 10 hidden gems to listen to from talented independent musicians.
jaqueline – “Come to Regret”
jaqueline turns the emotional highs and lows of complicated young love into a punchy alternative pop-rock anthem with her new single, “Come to Regret.” Built around driving guitars and candid, angst-filled songwriting, the track delves into the frustration of being drawn to someone who keeps slipping away, while wrestling with the question of how long to keep holding on. There is a mix of vulnerability and defiance at play, as jaqueline captures the tension between wanting things to work out and recognising when it’s time to put yourself first. Written and co-produced by the 16-year-old artist, the release brings a rockier edge to her growing catalogue.
Alexander Laing – “Oceans”
Alexander Laing’s latest release, “Oceans”, showcases the young composer and pianist’s gift for creating music that paints a picture without words. At just 16, Laing has developed a distinctive modern classical sound, and this new piece is a beautiful example. Taken from his debut album, The Delta Wave, the composition pairs delicate piano passages with increasingly rich, expressive arrangements, gradually building towards a stirring finale. Produced by Morgan Nicholls, “Oceans” is accompanied by an atmospheric video directed by Adrian Tanner, with sweeping coastal visuals that capture the spirit of the music.
Akaba – Wither Without
On Wither Without, Swedish trio Akaba turn the slow collapse of a relationship into an absorbing blend of indie pop and electronic experimentation. Their second album finds the Stockholm-based band broadening their sound, weaving shimmering synths, programmed beats and atmospheric guitars around Åsa Carild’s expressive vocals. Across nine tracks, shifting moods and carefully layered production give the record a sense of movement, moving from moments of tenderness to more unsettled, emotionally charged territory. Rather than simply dwelling on heartbreak, the album explores the confusion, frustration and eventual clarity that can come with losing someone. Focus track “Go North” captures this turning point, while the record as a whole finds a thoughtful balance between emotional uncertainty and the freedom of starting over.
Noé Socha – View from Inside
On View from Inside, New York-based guitarist and harmonica player Noé Socha takes an adventurous approach to 14 tracks that move between blues, jazz, folk and Americana. Blending original material with his own interpretations of familiar favourites, he brings a fresh perspective to songs such as Henry Mancini’s “Moon River”, The Beatles’ “Blackbird”, Chick Corea’s “Spain” and John Mayer’s “Gravity”. There’s plenty of variety throughout, with touches of bossa nova and Celtic music adding to the album’s character. Recorded live without overdubs over two days at The Loft NYC, View from Inside captures Socha’s natural musicality, spontaneity and distinctive approach to both guitar and harmonica.
Lee Wright And The Wrong’uns – “Feather Boa Thrower”
Lee Wright And The Wrong’uns make their first impression with “Feather Boa Thrower”, a catchy, swaggering debut single that mixes indie-rock energy with a healthy dose of glam-rock attitude. Driven by a deliciously prominent bassline, punchy drums and infectious melodies, the track pairs its upbeat sound with a playful tale inspired by an encounter during a night out in Hull. Frontman Lee Wright turns the chance meeting into an imaginative piece of storytelling, packed with colourful details, quirky observations and sharp lyrical touches. With nods to the likes of The Last Shadow Puppets and Arctic Monkeys, “Feather Boa Thrower” strikes a balance between retro cool and contemporary indie, offering a lively introduction to the band’s sound.
Slay Raché – Slay
There is plenty to get into on Slay, the 22-track debut album from independent pop and R&B artist Slay Raché. Moving between sleek pop, smooth R&B, jazz-inspired touches and infectious dancefloor production, the record captures her playful, confident and more vulnerable sides without settling into one particular sound. From bold, high-energy cuts like “Flow” and “You Make Me Wanna Dance” to the more reflective “Coldest Place on Earth” and “Smoke Signals”, there is a real sense of range throughout. More than just an introduction, Slay feels like an artist defining herself on her own terms, bringing together themes of ambition, heartbreak, self-worth and reinvention in a release that puts her personality and vocal versatility front and centre.
Clarity Liao – Dear…
Clarity Liao turns the feelings we often struggle to put into words into something beautifully listenable on her debut EP, Dear…, which features the stunning “Oh My Darling”. Across seven tracks, she explores the messy side of love, from secret crushes and jealousy to heartbreak, loneliness and the difficult process of moving on. Blending indie pop, R&B, bedroom pop and touches of doo-wop, the EP moves effortlessly between catchy, upbeat moments and more stripped-back, reflective sounds. Each song offers a glimpse into a different emotional chapter, whether it’s the frustration of unrequited feelings, the ache of watching someone choose another person or the quiet relief of finally letting go. Written entirely by Clarity, Dear… is an honest, heartfelt introduction to her artistry, capturing the things left unsaid and turning them into songs worth sharing.
Charlotte Han – The Diary of a Twenty-Something
Charlotte Han makes her debut with The Diary of a Twenty-Something, an 11-track album exploring the complexities of love, heartbreak, self-discovery and personal growth. Blending contemporary singer-songwriter pop with an anthemic sensibility, Han draws on the emotional honesty of artists such as Taylor Swift, Gracie Abrams and Noah Kahan while establishing a distinct identity through her candid lyricism and considered arrangements. Rooted in the messy realities of growing up, The Diary of a Twenty-Something captures the idealism, uncertainty and humour that define early adulthood. Across the record, Han moves between vulnerable reflections on relationships and more playful, energetic moments, balancing emotional depth with an accessible pop sensibility. Her background as a classically trained violinist and recording engineer informs the album’s melodic detail and production, bringing an additional level of craftsmanship to her songwriting.
Stephen Kohler – “Lifeguard”
Chicago-area singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Stephen Kohler returns with “Lifeguard”, an energetic and intricately arranged new single that showcases his instinct for timeless pop-rock songwriting. Combining driving guitars, infectious grooves, anthemic choruses and commanding vocals, the track offers an exciting preview of his forthcoming third studio album, further developing the distinctive sound he has established across more than three decades of musical experience. A dynamic and spirited release, “Lifeguard” captures the breadth of Kohler’s musical personality, moving effortlessly between moments of high-energy rock intensity and more intimate melodic passages. The result is a confident, characterful offering that feels rooted in classic songwriting traditions while retaining a personality entirely its own.
Beranger – “Signal”
Berlin-based band Beranger continue to carve out a distinctive space within contemporary rock with “Signal”, a dynamic new single that brings together classical piano, alt-rock, indie rock and pop-punk intensity. Combining thunderous piano riffs, powerful drums and dramatic vocal arrangements, the track captures the band’s genre-fluid approach while reinforcing their reputation for creating music built as much for the stage as it is for streaming. With Beranger (vocals, piano), Carolina “Winna” (bass), Markus (drums) and Andreas (guitar), Beranger’s sound sits somewhere between piano-driven rock, high-energy pop and heavier alternative influences. Their musical world evokes the ambition of Muse and Coldplay alongside the intensity of Linkin Park and modern Panic! At The Disco, but the band’s unconventional use of piano and constantly shifting arrangements gives their work an identity of its own.
