By Sammy Collier
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.
Thief Motif – “Speed Trap”
Thief Motif said this to describe themself: “If Paramore ate Japanese Breakfast while listening to Yeasayer and dancing on a Grizzly Bear, you’d get Thief Motif.” And I have to say, I think they are 100% correct. This track has a fresh and dynamic sound that stands out from the crowd. The polyrhythms running throughout the song add complexity and depth, keeping the listener engaged from start to finish. The guitar tones, reminiscent of late-era Paramore, bring a polished and vibrant texture to the arrangement.
One of the standout moments is the halftime shift in the chorus, which adds variety and keeps the groove feeling fresh and exciting. The harmonies are perfectly executed, enhancing the clean lead vocal without overpowering it. Thoughtfully written and skillfully performed, this song showcases a compelling mix of artistry and innovation.
Playboy Fresh – “Dear M&R”
It’s rare to hear an established artist in the rap game open up about fatherhood with such raw honesty and vulnerability. This track is a powerful tribute to the complexities of being a dad, resonating deeply with anyone who’s experienced the highs and challenges of parenthood. While many songs about fatherhood lean into soft, sentimental expressions of love, this one stands apart by capturing the grit and strength that comes with the instinct to protect, while still holding compassion at its core.
What makes this song truly special is its unflinching examination of imperfection. It acknowledges the struggles and flaws of fatherhood while celebrating the relentless effort to do right by your kids. It’s a heartfelt, gritty, and deeply relatable piece that hits home on multiple levels.
November Kennedy – “OLOSHO”
This track is a standout addition to the ever-growing world of Afrobeats, showcasing exactly why the genre is captivating audiences globally. The production is top-tier, with melodies and harmonies that are both infectiously catchy and soothingly groovy. The tasteful application and expert management of auto-tune further elevate the song, giving it a polished yet natural feel.
At the heart of it all is a phenomenal vocal performance that carries the track with charisma and skill. It’s a seamless blend of artistry and technical precision that makes this song a joy to listen to. A great example of what makes Afrobeats so irresistible.
Wade Aylett Band– “Stone by Stone”
This track delivers on all fronts, offering a powerful and satisfying listening experience. It’s a heartwarming song about the sacrfices our parents and grandparents have made to give us the life that we have now. The rhythm and acoustic guitars are rich and full, laying down a strong foundation that drives the song forward. The lead guitar adds a gritty edge, injecting raw energy and character into the mix.
On top of that, the vocal performance is consistently strong, adding emotion and intensity that ties everything together. It’s a well-rounded, expertly crafted piece that showcases both technical skill and artistic passion.
The Singer and the Songwriter – “You Take Such Good Care of Me”
This song is simple but so good. The vocals are top notch and the guitar work is excellent. The track brings a feeling of gratitude for the special people in our lives that show us unconditional love through their service.
The song is great, and the video that goes along with it is simply beautiful. It is well shot and gives you a glimpse of the friendship that exists between the two members of this folk duo. This might be our shortest review here, but some things are better experienced for oneself. Phenomenal work.