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.
This month’s roundup features a diverse range of musical styles and influences by exceptional genre-blending artists, including Catlea, Kelsey Montanez, Little Wasters, and Cameron Ferguson. Continue reading below to learn more about the talented artists who landed on the March edition of On Repeat.
Why Them? – Catlea
‘Why Them?’ deftly explores conflicting relationship dynamics when no one, including Catlea, is mature enough to know what they want. Driving beats, infectious hooks, and sensual vocals propel listeners on a roller coaster of passion as Catlea fervently questions the wisdom of giving attention and affection to someone else when you desperately need to find yourself first.
Excerpt from Catlea press material for “Why Them?”
Singer-songwriter Catlea has delivered once again with her new single “Why Them?”, further cementing her status as one of the most intriguing artists in the indie scene. Having graced this site multiple times, including for her recent EP Bones, it’s clear that Catlea’s ability to blend musical influences into a sound that resists easy categorization is one of her greatest strengths. “Why Them?” takes this to a new level, delivering a track with a raw, gritty edge that feels like a slight departure from her previous work, which leans towards an electronic-influenced style. With distorted guitar tones setting a powerful backdrop, the track falls squarely within the alternative space, but with Catlea’s signature genre-blending flair. Her sultry, compelling vocals are the standout highlight, effortlessly carrying the weight of the song’s darker, edgier theme of resilience and defiance. The infectious vocal hook in the chorus makes it impossible to not get swept up in its dynamic energy, while the production elevates the mood with haunting synth panning that feels like a call out to her electronic roots. It sounds like a cross between the edgy style of Billie Eilish with the pop sensibility of Taylor Swift and a dose of 90s-inspired alt rock embedded in the sound. As the fifth release from her new album, Language Barriers, “Why Them?” showcases Catlea’s continuing desire to push musical boundaries with an eclectic sound that turns heads and perks ears. My Music Mixtape
Everly – Kelsey Montanez
“Tell me, are we in a dream?” Kelsey Montanez asks in ‘Everly’, a track that feels like floating through time—both nostalgic and futuristic—while marking her most dance-forward release yet. With lush slide guitars and a classic disco groove, ‘Everly’ unfolds like a silver-screen Western love story set beneath a shimmering disco ball.
Excerpt from Kelsey Montanez press material for “Everly”
Kelsey Montanez’s latest single, “Everly”, is nothing short of a sonic revelation. The Chicago-based singer-songwriter has delivered a track that effortlessly blends gritty alt rock influences with a fresh, feel-good dance groove. While the single nods to the electrifying energy of her previous release, “Kick The Habit”, which we featured on this site, “Everly” surprises with a dreamy, shimmering verse that is soon swept away by a toe-tapping rhythm and a dose of classic disco in what can only be described as a banger of a chorus. Montanez’s genre shapeshifting versatility is on full display, moving from the ethereal to the infectious, effortlessly weaving together elements of rock, disco, and yes even a touch of country, thanks to a prominent slide guitar. The result? A track that feels both nostalgic and thoroughly modern. Her vocal performance is captivating, delivering a weightless falsetto that carries the song with a commanding presence. The height of the track introduces several distorted guitar parts, injecting a high dose of edge and energy that offers a lingering musical fix. With every new release, Montanez continues to prove her ability to weave fun and poignancy into one seamless listening experience. “Everly” marks the ninth release from her upcoming debut album, and with each one, anticipation grows stronger—she’s undoubtedly on to something special. My Music Mixtape
Heat – Little Wasters
It’s time for the real Wastelife to stand up, and guess what, don’t be afraid there are real guitars. Buckle up and enjoy the ride, and book early! Wasters attempt to blend drums & wires with dance grooves and the odd sample. Their influences include Townsend and Weller, and songsmiths such as Shelley and John O’Neil, an Undertone.
Excerpt from Little Wasters Spotify profile for “Wastelife”
Little Wasters have outdone themselves with “Heat,” the electrifying single from their new album Wastelife. After being introduced to the UK-based indie rock band through the infectious “I Want You (For Someone),” which we said “grabs you by the collar from the first listen”, we knew we were dealing with a band that could turn heads. The same can be said of “Heat”, which takes that energy to exhilarating new heights. A menacing, gritty guitar riff takes center stage, accompanied by a steady bass and drum pulse that perfectly complements the track’s PSA-style spoken word verses. As the song builds, it leads into a chorus that demands you sing along with its irresistible hook–“This heat drives me crazy”—and you absolutely will. Rich background vocals create a depth that pulls you further into its hypnotic rhythm. The subtle synth work and layered textural elements, especially during the bridge, elevates the track’s listening experience. It’s a song that doesn’t just rock; it transports. While it’s a banger all on its own, there’s added importance in making it the opening track on the new album – a smart and deliberate decision that certainly sets the tone for what’s to come. It’s clear Little Wasters are gearing up to dominate. With airplay on Amazing Radio, Radio 6 Music, and BBC Introducing already under their belt, this band is truly poised to hit even greater heights with this excellent new release. My Music Mixtape
Roses – Cameron Ferguson
2024 was a breakthrough year for Cameron and the band. After entering a fan based competition to perform at Belladrum, one of Scotland’s most renowned festivals, they secured the most public votes out of the 5 shortlisted Scottish artists. This win earned them a spot on the main stage, sharing the bill with acts like Sophie Ellis-Bextor, James Arthur, and Ocean Colour Scene.
Excerpt from Cameron Ferguson press material for “Roses”
Scottish singer-songwriter Cameron Ferguson is turning heads with his latest single, “Roses”, a masterclass in balancing fragility with raw, unrelenting energy. From the opening moments, the track pulls you into a world of atmospheric soundscapes, where dreamy synth layers and introspective verses set the stage for something bigger. “Roses” then erupts into an anthemic, full-throttle chorus that delivers a rush of shoegaze-influenced guitars, an undeniable hook, and soaring harmonies that linger long after the song’s final note. What makes “Roses” stand out is its paradoxical beauty. Like the flower itself, it’s delicate yet sharp, weaving lush dream-pop textures with a darker edge, all while remaining irresistibly accessible. The interplay of male and female vocals is particularly mesmerizing, sending shivers as they capture both the song’s tenderness and its underlying resilience, further highlighting the beautifully contrasting nature of a rose. Just when you think you’ve grasped its essence, the bridge unfolds—cathartic and climactic, it’s an emotional rollercoaster that seals the deal. With high-caliber production reinforcing Ferguson’s signature wall of sound, “Roses” is nothing short of immersive. Having already captured the attention of industry giants like A&R Factory and securing a spot on the main stage at Belladrum, Fergusson is on an upward trajectory–and the explosive quality of “Roses” will only continue to accelerate his meteoric rise. My Music Mixtape
All quotes and images provided in artist press material
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