8 Songs That Sound Like Nothing Else Out There
Some artists know how to make something that sounds good, but others know how to really push the envelope. Make sure to keep an open mind, shake off the cobwebs of the traditional, and prepare yourself for the wondrous world of musical experimentation.
1. “Dreams Today” by Efterklang
When a band travels to an abandoned mining town in Norway to record an album, there’s destined to be some unique compositions that emerge as a result. Throughout Efterklang’s album “Piramida” you will hear everything from rotating fuel valves to reverberating gas tanks. It’s this song, inundated with gravel-laden footsteps, that steals the show.
2. “First Difference” by Syd Arthur
I can’t remember the last time I heard a combination of violins, fast paced drums, and crispy guitar riffs quite like this. The reason for that is because no one has done it as well as Syd Arthur. Get ready for some edgy lines and sweeping orchestral melodies brought to you by some ridiculously talented musicians.
3. “The Knower” by Youth Lagoon
It would seem that with every single album, Youth Lagoon gets just a little bit weirder. With his third record, Trevor Powers is working his way through the death of a close friend, which manifests itself in some incredibly unorthodox, and intense, works of art. Throughout “The Knower,” Powers builds layer after layer to form a dynamic ballad of loss and reconciliation.
4. “Oh God, Oh Dear” by CEO
This album is one of the most eccentric and creative collections of music in the indie scene today. If you can make it through the cacophonous breaks and lack of cohesion, there are some truly memorable moments to be had. Bear with the first minute, and then enjoy a cello-driven serenade intertwined with Ezra Koenig-like vocals.
5. “In Kind” by Braids
Getting back to the “intense” side of the proverbial train track, this is one of the crazier songs on the list. Canadian-born Braids takes you on a journey with extremely tight drumming, big sounds, and unique vocals. Many of the songs on this list are considerably outside of the mainstream, but “In Kind” is the most wholesome embodiment of this collection’s spirit.
6. “Giant Tortoise” by Pond
In a change of pace, Pond is a band that toes the line between psychedelic ambiance and hardcore rock n’ roll. Both genres are on full display here, so right when you’re getting comfortable with the Tame Impala-like vibe, they’re going to hit you with one of the catchiest, face-blasting White Stripes choruses you’ve ever experienced. Fasten your seat belt.
7. “Murakami” by Made in Heights
The words that come to mind when listening to this song are “Japan,” “Inception,” and “Derp.” That is all I will say. Hopefully, I’ve intrigued you enough to press that play button.
8. “The Waves” by Villagers
If you’ve made it this far, first give yourself a complimentary pat on the back because you deserve it. Second, this is absolutely my favorite song on this list. Beautiful lyrics paired with some truly strange sonic vibes make for one of Villagers’ best. Make sure you take a look at the acoustic video performance filmed along the river Seine in Paris when you get a chance.
