On Repeat is a monthly roundup of My Music Mixtape’s favourite tracks featured on our ‘Radio Friendly Indie Rock and Alt Pop‘ Spotify playlist.
November’s roundup features a diverse range of musical styles and influences by exceptional genre-blending artists, including Diana Omar, Electric Rime, fxrrvst, Deer Park Avenue, The Avelons, Laura Musgrave, Emily Gilbart, King In Yellow, Grace Angelique, Catlea and The Mercadonnas. Continue reading below to learn more about the talented artists who landed on this month’s edition of On Repeat.
sore throat – Diana Omar
Diana Omar is an emerging force in the indie music scene, blending her distinctive sound with raw emotion and powerful lyrics. Known for her captivating vocals and the signature 90s guitar riff that defines her indie pop hits like “matching your energy”, Diana is now ready to make waves with her new rock track.
Excerpt from Diana Omar press material for “sore throat”
Singer-songwriter Diana Omar delivers yet another standout track with “sore throat,” blending her signature pop rock and alt pop vibe with a grittier rock edge. It offers a similar blend of styles that had us raving about her summer single, “matching your energy”, but on this new release Omar takes a bold dive into raw alt-rock territory by introducing a darker, edgier tone. The song is inspired by her real-life bout with pharyngitis—an illness that, for a singer, feels almost existential. It results in an added layer of intensity, both lyrically and instrumentally. Lines including, “Now I’m losing my voice and I don’t have a choice” and “I’m choking on clean air” reveal the vulnerability and frustration of her experience, all while maintaining her characteristically catchy, emotive vocal style. The track’s modern electronic layers, coupled with a 90s alt-rock-inspired instrumental, showcase her ability to innovate and push genre boundaries. As Omar’s catalogue grows, it’s clear that her artistic momentum shows no signs of slowing. With “sore throat,” she transforms a personal struggle into an anthem that carries wide appeal—proving her voice is actually stronger than ever. My Music Mixtape
Everything We Knew (Official Video) – Electric Rime
“Everything comes to an end, and life becomes much more complicated as you grow up. But those precious moments of youth that you shared with your friends will stay with you forever. I think both the song and the video capture that feeling.” – Alina Fedorova, lead singer
Excerpt from Electric Rime press material for “Everything We Knew”
Electric Rime returns with another heart-stirring release, “Everything We Knew,” an indie rock anthem that is as powerful as it is poignant. Known for their signature blend of melodic soundscapes and raw emotional weight, the Ukraine-based four-piece first caught our attention with “Tales,” a song that unflinchingly captures the devastation inflicted on innocent lives in their home country. From there, “Lit Up” gave us a taste of Electric Rime’s talent for creating memorable, bittersweet melodies that linger. With “Everything We Knew,” they delve deeper into themes of inevitable change, loss, and the nostalgic ache for a simpler past. Musically, this track remains consistent with the band’s established style, characterized by shimmering guitars, a rumbling bass line, and a soaring chorus that digs right into the heart. The bass line is an absolute highlight, anchoring not only the music that sits above it but also the emotions that are stirred while watching the video. The music video brilliantly captures the carefree days of youth, filled with sunlit memories of teens hanging out, playing and performing music, enjoying ice cream, and living for the moment—a past that now seems sadly distant. It is self-reflective and autobiographical, but also universal in appeal, speaking to anyone who has lived through life’s abrupt, irreversible changes. Electric Rime’s music doesn’t just tell their story; it tells Ukraine’s story, reminding us that despite all the uncertainty—now heightened by the recent US election—they continue to create music that unquestionably moves and inspires. My Music Mixtape
Constable Hotel – fxrrvst
Constable Hotel from front to back, though small, has everything you can ask for. From songs that comfort you like a hug on a rainy day, to tunes that make you want to dust off your old skateboard and ride off in a Walmart parking lot, Constable Hotel is a must listen for 2024.
Excerpt from fxrrvst press material for Constable Hotel
Toronto-based indie rock duo fxrrvst has outdone themselves with Constable Hotel, a four-track EP that radiates their signature feel-good vibes and sing-along quality, all while showcasing impressive musical growth and thematic depth. We have featured fxrrvst several times, and with each release our admiration for their artistry and ability to craft songs with universal appeal grows incrementally. The EP begins with “Lavender”, a fast-paced indie pop gem that demands a musical double take, boasting an infectious guitar riff and upbeat energy. It’s impossible to ignore—and fittingly, it’s the track that first introduced us to fxrrvst. “CBAYAOM” delivers more catchy foot-tapping indie pop hooks across an energetic instrumental. It carries a friendly vibe and sense of adventure, fitting for a coming-of-age song. We previously called the song “the perfect song for summer” – and we stand by this statement. “Hate Has No Home Here” acts as a poignant call for unity, capturing the mood of a generation amid a polarized environment. It features an irresistible chorus and an impassioned vocal line that delivers a message of hope. Rounding out the EP is their latest single, “Nightmare Dreaming”, a hauntingly powerful track that feels like a journey through raw emotions and suspense. It also marks a first for Holly and Matt, as it was fully written and produced by the duo. The song blends piano, acoustic guitar, and arpeggiated riffs in a way that builds organically, creating a tension that is reinforced by the anxiety and struggle captured by Holly’s powerful lyrics: “I’m stuck in my head, I lay in this bed wondering can I get out of it, can I get out of it alive”. You know something is coming, and when it does, it gives you shivers. The song unfolds into a climactic release that is nothing short of moving, rounding out the EP on an impactful note. Constable Hotel is, hands-down, one of our favorite releases of 2024 – an absolute must-listen for any music fan. My Music Mixtape
Crucible – Deer Park Avenue
“Crucible is about being refined like gold in the fire…The whole album for us is a journey, and it tells a story of waking up from your life on the sidelines, wanting change, and going through the fire to let go of the past, becoming the person you’re meant to be.”
Excerpt from Deer Park Avenue press material for Crucible
Deer Park Avenue’s sophomore album, Crucible, is a thrilling showcase of everything we love about indie rock—and so much more. This sister duo has delivered a record that breaks free of genre confines, blending elements of grunge, synth-pop, and even jazz into a cohesive and electrifying journey. From start to finish, Crucible brims with energy, emotional depth, and expertly crafted dynamics, proving that the band has mastered the art of keeping listeners hooked.
The opening track, “Cave”, sets the tone with a slow-burning build that erupts into gritty guitars, explosive drums, and Sarah Snyder’s dynamic vocals—fragile one moment, powerful the next. The title track, “Crucible”, which we have previously featured, takes that energy and amplifies it, offering a euphoric and goosebump-inducing climax that is without question a highlight of the record. The song’s thematic depth—navigating change and transformation—carries universal appeal and mirrors the eclectic, shape shifting nature of their sound.
“Shut Me Out” channels punk rock intensity, driven by its infectious vocal hook in the chorus, while “Strut” drives the album’s momentum forward with its exceptional drum work. The duo’s pop rock sensibilities shine on “Queen of Disaster” and “Outta Here”, both featuring an array of shimmering and crunchy guitar tones, tight vocal harmonies, and sing-along choruses.
On “Dance”, Deer Park Avenue layers fuzzy guitars reminiscent of Siamese Dream-era Smashing Pumpkins with textured background vocals, while “Moon River” and “Moon River Flow” take an atmospheric turn, blending orchestral elements and vocal harmonies into cinematic beauty that pays tribute to the Audrey Hepburn classic. “Pink Champagne” continues this ethereal vibe, building tension before exploding into a powerful climax that will certainly move listeners.
Lastly, “Prom Night” and “Voices” offer contrasting tones—one a pop-punk anthem, the other a jazzy, soulful closer with a groovy bass line that borders on R&B. It’s a perfect ending to an outstanding album that defies expectations. After making waves at SXSW and earning extensive radio play over the past year, Deer Park Avenue showcases their remarkable versatility and emotional depth on Crucible, blending stadium-worthy, adrenaline-fuelled rock anthems with intimate, nuanced soundscapes—a clear sign of their promising ascent in the music industry. My Music Mixtape
The Gallows – The Avelons
Rapidly establishing themselves in the emerging indie scene, The Avelons have electrified audiences with sold-out shows, edgy indie rock singles, and lyrics steeped in nostalgia for pints, wild nights, and euphoria…With jangly guitar riffs, passionate vocals, and anthemic, harmonised choruses, they continue to captivate as they delve deeper into their dynamic, angry-indie sound.
Excerpt from The Avelons press material for The Gallows
The Avelons are back with their knockout debut EP, The Gallows, which dives into themes of anxiety, excitement, and vengeance, wrapped in a seamless blend of 90s-inspired Britpop and modern indie rock. We were first introduced to the UK-based four-piece on their single “Since Monday”, an infectious rock and roll rollercoaster that left us eagerly awaiting their next release. The Gallows certainly lives up to the anticipation with its soaring choruses, top-tier guitar work, and a dynamic energy that refuses to let up. The opening track, “The Prequel”, sets the stage with a gritty, sprawling soundscape brought to life by impeccable production. An arpeggiated guitar riff and propulsive drum work drive the chorus forward, creating an irresistible sound that demands repeat listens. The tension-filled climax, punctuated by a hypnotic drum pattern, stands out as a highlight of the whole EP with its magnetic groove. Next comes “Blondie”, a barnburner that was previously released as a single and acts as the centrepiece of the EP. Jack Oldham’s commanding vocals soar over a slightly distorted, pulsing bass line and steady drums, leading into an instrumental build that explodes into a relentless instrumental attack. A banger of a song, it’s made to be cranked loud and begs to be heard live. Closing with the six-minute epic “The Gallows”, the band leans into their cinematic ambitions. Jangly guitars and atmospheric synths evoke nostalgia before evolving into a dynamic, distortion-heavy Britpop jam. Oldham’s vocal delivery here is raw and unrestrained, providing the perfect finish to this brilliant release. With The Gallows, The Avelons take their anthemic choruses and self-described “angry-indie” sound to thrilling new heights, delivering a high-energy debut EP that is impossible to resist. My Music Mixtape
Play Again – Laura Musgrave
“‘It’s about starting to find your strength again after feeling like your world has stopped,’ Musgrave says. ‘It’s that turning point when you realize your fight is coming back. You’re determined to face whatever challenges life has in store, even if you’re still figuring out how to pick yourself back up. It’s having that trust in yourself that you’ll find a way to work it out.’”
Excerpt from Laura Musgrave press material for Play Again
Laura Musgrave’s “Play Again” hooked us right from the start with its catchy, feel-good pop-rock vibe that’s both uplifting and empowering. Built on an upbeat and energetic foundation, the song seamlessly balances melody and grit. The UK-based singer-songwriter’s powerful yet inviting vocal delivery blends with angst-driven, distorted guitar tones, making for a dynamic soundscape that pulses with determination and optimism. The song’s theme—finding strength to rebuild and face life’s challenges—shines through, with lyrics like “I’m going to pick up the pieces and play again” and “winning has nothing to do with luck” reinforcing the idea that resilience is earned, not simply given. Its radio-friendly nature and universal message make “Play Again” instantly relatable. It’s clear that Musgrave has a knack for crafting catchy hooks—in fact, she’s earned airplay all around the world, from BBC Radio in the UK to stations in the US and Australia. This track solidifies her as a rising force in pop rock, a natural talent with an ability to write songs with a broad appeal. Bottom line is “Play Again” is not just a song—it’s a vibrant anthem for anyone ready to reclaim their strength and step forward with confidence. My Music Mixtape
Pulling Teeth – Emily Gilbart
Written as a sort of confrontation with her own mind, the song provided ‘an experience of catharsis and much-needed levity in a difficult time’. She hopes the song will offer the same to listeners going through similar challenges.
Excerpt from Emily Gilbart press material for Play Again
Emily Gilbart’s “Pulling Teeth” grabs you from the first chord with its punchy pop-rock energy, and refuses to let go. The song’s distorted guitar tones fuse with Gilbart’s soothing vocal delivery to create an intriguing tension between light and dark. The Ontario-based singer-songwriter brings a folk sensibility, blending it with a 90s alt rock-inspired instrumental that anchors the song in both nostalgia and new energy. The chorus is an absolute earworm, driven by a vocal hook that will have you hitting repeat. A subtle synth layer runs under the core instrumental, enriching the song’s sonic depth. While the music radiates an upbeat vibe, “Pulling Teeth” dives into much heavier themes. It captures the inner turmoil of living with mental illness—Gilbart channels her own struggles with anxiety, crafting an anthem of emotional resilience. Lines like “You’re the voice in my head when I’m trying to sleep” hit hard, instantly relatable for anyone who has faced similar challenges. The song is not only raw in feeling, but it is also visually raw with the images she conjures in her lyrics: “Nerves are feeling raw and exposed, just a ticking time bomb made of flesh and bone.” It certainly cuts to the core, offering listeners moments of reflection. Following her 2024 singles “Soap” and “Annabelle,” Gilbart is fast emerging as a compelling new voice in indie, and “Pulling Teeth” sets the stage for a promising year ahead. My Music Mixtape
Dark passengers – King In Yellow
With a shared goal to continually push their boundaries and create music that resonates deeply with their souls, King In Yellow is on a relentless journey of self-discovery and artistic evolution. Their music serves as a testament to their unwavering dedication to the craft and their desire to inspire others with their innovative soundscapes.
Excerpt from King In Yellow press material for Dark passengers
King In Yellow delves into rich, atmospheric textures, blending shoegaze with the raw intensity of 80s new wave on their epic new EP, Dark passengers. We were first introduced to the Kington, New York-based indie rock band on “Modern Dance”, a song we love thanks to the melodic, washed-out guitar tones that are full of warmth and texture. The new EP retains this signature style, but with a musical maturity that showcases the four-piece blending genres and delivering a variety of moods and emotions. The opening track, “Lucid Dreams”, immediately captivates with lush shoegaze guitar layers combined with gritty melodic elements and a hook crafted around one of the EP’s best guitar riffs. Each note seems to pay homage to the genre’s roots in horror and new wave, while Kyle McDonough’s voice — reminiscent of Morrissey but with an alluring originality — lifts this song to haunting heights. The title track, “Dark Passengers”, addresses themes of depression and grief through an energetic tempo and a flange-driven guitar that keeps listeners entranced. The drum beat pulses, especially during the chorus, adding an irresistible groove that balances the song’s dark undercurrent. On “Hand In Fan”, the band leans fully into their dark wave side, creating a soundscape that feels both raw and polished, the perfect contrast to the frenetic guitar and emphatic bass line that gives it edge. Finally, “Desire Path” features a tone-heavy soundscape full of intensity, anchored by a groove-infused bass line. This closer encapsulates the EP’s essence: a tight, layered production with live-recorded spontaneity, calling back to Gish-era Smashing Pumpkins and The Smiths, while maintaining a distinct sonic identity. Dark passengers is immersive and impeccably executed, proof that King In Yellow’s sound is made to linger. My Music Mixtape
Out Of This World – Grace Angelique
Grace Angelique is an American/British singer-songwriter blending indie pop charm with rock and roll grit. Since relocating to the UK in 2016, Grace has infused her sound with the vibrant energy of Orla Gartland, Arctic Monkeys, Wet Leg, and the American rock edge of The Strokes.
Excerpt from Grace Angelique bio on Spotify
Singer-songwriter Grace Angelique takes us on a cosmic thrill ride with her latest release, “Out Of This World”, a rock anthem packed with gritty guitar riffs, a rumbling bass line, and an infectious chorus that begs you to sing along. We previously featured Angelique’s singles, “In Your Dreams” and “Bird of Prey”, both delivering a heavy dose of catchy pop-rock. “Out Of This World” dives more into full-on rock ‘n’ roll territory with a nod to her influences, including Arctic Monkeys and The Strokes. In fact, it was inspired by the Arctic Monkeys song “Arabella”, acting as a response to it. “Out Of This World” flips the script by channelling the sultry energy of “the galaxy’s edge”—a line from the Arctic Monkeys track—through the perspective of the character Arabella. With a driving beat and a bold guitar solo that Angelique wrote herself, a first for the UK-based artist, the song showcases her artistic growth and desire to experiment. The track’s spacey tones add a celestial touch, especially during the bridge, where electronic layers and sound effects amplify its cosmic vibe. Backing vocals echoing “I wanna be your girl” add a playful response, presumably by Arabella herself, amplifying the song’s charm. “Out Of This World” is clever, upbeat, and a whole lot of fun, and adds to Angelique’s growing catalogue of spirited and energetic music. My Music Mixtape
Bones – Catlea
Processing a breakup can be tiresome and heavy, but Catlea has made this an easier experience for listeners. Through Catlea’s transparent and authentic songwriting, “Bones” offers a sense of relatability amongst the prescribed loneliness – a shoulder to cry on. When delivered by Catlea’s honeyed vocals, “Bones” becomes both a beautiful confessional and a therapeutic release.
Excerpt from Catlea press material for Bones
Catlea’s new EP, Bones, delivers an irresistible mix of genres and styles, showcasing the Cincinnati-based artist’s incredible versatility and vocal prowess. The title track, “Bones,” is an undeniable standout, with steady pop-rock vibes laced with touches of R&B, soul, and yes, even disco. The infectious chorus and top-notch production elevate Catlea’s smooth-as-butter vocals, which effortlessly balance power with a sultry undertone. Lines like, “I didn’t get over you, just got over talking about it” reveal a tender vulnerability that fits perfectly with the song’s themes of heartbreak and resilience. It is fresh, modern, and polished, bringing new life to breakup anthems and hinting at her remarkable talent—she wrote the song in a single night. “Crumbling” is a high energy banger full of surprises that seamlessly merges rock, alt pop and EDM, while showcasing her knack for writing catchy pop hooks and keeping listeners on their toes. Next up is “Lying”, a riveting, attention grabbing pop track that first introduced us to Catlea, highlighting her gift for creating songs with broad, universal appeal. The EP closes with “Like Me,” which starts as a stripped-back showcase of Catlea’s angelic voice over gentle acoustic guitar and shimmering tones. It builds gradually with percussive elements and electric guitar until it unfolds into a full-on rocker, delivering a moving, climactic end to the EP. Altogether, Bones is a rich, genre-blending EP that solidifies Catlea as an artist with immense talent and appeal, intensifying our anticipation for her upcoming album, Language Barrier. My Music Mixtape
Animals – The Mercadonnas
“Animals” is an unapologetic rock anthem that takes aim at the hijacking of our attention spans by technology and social media. “We’ve had our concentration stolen, but worse, they made us do it to ourselves!” says frontman Jack O’Flaherty.
Excerpt from The Mercadonnas press material for “Animals”
Irish rock band The Mercadonnas deliver a pure shot of adrenaline with their latest release, “Animals”, a blistering track that merges full-throttle rock ‘n’ roll with pointed social commentary. Known for their post-punk energy, the band calls out society’s shrinking attention span in a world dominated by technology. Singer Jack O’Flaherty doesn’t hold back any punches, delivering an impassioned vocal line that is unapologetic and anthemic, driving home the message with intensity. The guitar work on “Animals” is equally impressive, reminiscent of Arctic Monkeys with its gritty, yet melodic sound, while the chorus hits hard with soaring energy. The bass line anchors the second verse with endless groove, adding a layer of depth that’s only amplified by the instrumental build leading into the final chorus. The release here is as satisfying as it gets, reigniting the intensity that kicks off the track. Guitarist Eoin Coogan says it’s “the song we love to play live the most,” and it’s easy to see why. With its fierce tempo and raw sound, “Animals” isn’t just great on stage—it’s the kind of song that sticks with you long after the last note. Building on the success of their debut, “Céad Míle Fáilte”, which earned national radio play, The Mercadonnas have raised the stakes with “Animals”, solidifying their status as a band on a quick ascent. My Music Mixtape
All quotes and images provided in artist press material
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