_{By Mike Romero}

With so much music in the Provo music scene, it’s easy to get sucked in and start listening to music in a bubble. It’s always great to see what awaits you in the broader world of sonic textures and to find new recommendations that can inspire you to make music differently than you did before.

Here are five songs from indie artists across the country. Hopefully something here can help spark some new inspiration for you.

Jeán et Joie – “Glory Be”

This song is nothing short of a masterpiece. The songwriting is breathtaking, with lyrics that resonate deeply and a melody that lingers long after the last note. The composition feels timeless, evoking the same chills as iconic pieces like Leonard Cohen’s “Hallelujah.” It’s a rare gem that showcases the power of storytelling and melody in music, proving that a beautifully written song can stand on its own as a work of art.

The lead vocals are phenomenal, carrying the song with emotion and strength. It’s clear that exceptional talent and thought went into crafting this piece. With its haunting beauty and unforgettable composition, this song has the potential to become a classic. It’s an inspiring work of art that deserves recognition and celebration, and I’m excited to share it with others.

Tonight’s Sunshine – “W.Y.R.”

This track is a wild ride of textures, shifting effortlessly between contrasting moods and keeping listeners on their toes. The opening breezy, bonfire beach guitar immediately sets a laid-back vibe, only to be shattered—in the best way possible—by an epic “Hey” and a heavier, more intense intro. The dynamic shifts feel less like whiplash and more like a thrilling roller coaster, making it impossible to look away. From start to finish, the song commands attention with its bold transitions and high energy.

The lead vocals are a standout feature, evoking strong Gwen Stefani vibes—full of charisma, edge, and undeniable talent. The singer’s delivery adds personality and punch to an already well-crafted song. The combination of vibrant instrumentation and stellar vocals makes this track not only captivating but also incredibly cool. It’s a song worth celebrating.

zorin morris – “the one that I Love”

This track feels like a nostalgic journey, blending textures that could easily score the perfect love song in a ’90s sitcom. At the same time, the vocals channel the brooding charm of Joy Division or Echo & the Bunnymen, creating a unique and intriguing contrast. The result is a song that masterfully bridges two eras of nostalgia, pairing them in a way that feels fresh and effective.

The harmonies and vocal doubles in the chorus elevate the emotion even further, dialing up the sentiment and leaving a lasting impression. It’s a thoughtful and well-executed piece that strikes the perfect balance between retro inspiration and contemporary appeal

Icarus Phoenix and Teleprom– “Painting”

This song is nothing short of heart-wrenching. It takes the folk/pop genre and elevates it far beyond its usual boundaries. It transcends the “cute internet genre” label and becomes something epic, emotional, and profoundly moving. The track has a haunting, pastoral quality—like an A24 film translated into sound. The deliberate pacing, with space left between each lyrical line, allows the listener to fully absorb and reflect on every statement, making each one hit with incredible weight.

The lyrics are masterfully crafted, each line feeling like a carefully aimed gut punch. The overall effect is stunningly melancholic, reminiscent of the first time hearing Death Cab for Cutie’s “What Sarah Said.” It’s a rare kind of song that leaves you feeling deeply moved and introspective long after it ends. Truly, an exceptional piece of work

Michael Monroe Goodman – “You Got to Honky Tonk”

As soon as I heard this song, I was taken back to George Strait-era country music. Goodman’s vocals are outstanding and make this song the masterpiece that it is. While the country genre has modernized and has become more mainstream, this song took me back to a simpler time.

I first heard this song as an acoustic track and immediately needed to hear the full arrangement and it did not disappoint. But Goodman’s vocal prowess is able to make an acoustic track just as engaging. Click here if you want to know what I’m talking about.