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.
July’s roundup features a diverse range of musical styles and influences by exceptional genre-blending artists, including MatAre, Gin Wife, Wotts, Josh Orange, and The Kellows. Continue reading below to learn more about the talented artists who landed on this month’s edition of On Repeat.
I Could Kill You But I Love You – MatAre
“‘I Could Kill You But I Love You’ delves into a narrative that juxtaposes feelings of hatred and love. With its passive-aggressive yet upbeat nature, the song conceals deeper emotions beneath its catchy melody.”
Excerpt from MatAre press material for “I Could Kill You But I Love You”
Atlanta-based indie artist MatAre delivers yet another gem with his latest single, “I Could Kill You But I Love You.” Marking a clear departure from the dark, brooding tones of his previous track “That’s What People Do”, which we featured in the last edition of On Repeat, this new release taps into a brighter, quick-paced sound that continues to carry MatAre’s signature characteristics.
Built on a shimmering guitar arpeggio and upbeat, dance rock instrumentation, “I Could Kill You But I Love You” pulls listeners in with its energetic groove and layered textures. MatAre, the moniker for Matthew Rousseau, leans into a more playful, infectious tone here, even repeating the phrase “let’s dance”—a subtle but clear nod to David Bowie that also doubles as a call to action that draws in listeners. It’s a fun, high-tempo track, but the title and underlying message cut against the grain of its upbeat sound, hinting at a deeper emotional tension between love and hate while demonstrating Rousseau’s multi-dimensional approach to songwriting. The result is a genre-defying sound that blends the new wave identity of The Cure with the atmospheric post-punk revival of Interpol, as well as a hint of shoegaze throughout the track.
Once again, production is top-notch, with Gabe Wolf (Kurt Vile) returning to handle mixing and mastering, bringing MatAre’s multi-layered soundscape to life. “I Could Kill You But I Love You” is a compelling contrast to its predecessor and a smart move ahead of the upcoming album, Extinction Burst, showcasing MatAre’s wide emotional spectrum and sonic palette. Coming in at roughly 2.5 minutes, the song is a fun thrill ride that will beg you to hit repeat—a quick hit of feel-good music fit for summer but with a deeper message that lingers. My Music Mixtape
Pro Golfers – Gin Wife
“The recording process was a comedic experience, with Gin Wife and Parker Forbes immersing themselves in a hot summer day’s session filled with laughter, chain-smoking, and an impressive number of pickle-backs and beer. Despite battling allergy attacks from the surrounding grass and pollen, the duo managed to capture the essence of the song, creating a raw and authentic sound.”
Excerpt from Gin Wife press material for “Pro Golfers”
Nashville-based singer-songwriter Gin Wife returns with “Pro Golfers,” an undeniably infectious indie pop gem that trades the darker alt-rock grit of her previous single “Caveat”, which we featured in our last edition, for something sunnier, snarkier, and totally irresistible. Anchored by a fuzzy bass line that’s equal parts playful and propulsive, the track builds a breezy soundscape of clean and shimmering tones, lush harmonies, and sharp guitar parts that take turns punching through the stereo field with precision and flair.
Her signature crooner-style vocals—vintage and nostalgic in spirit, contemporary and fresh in delivery—cut through the mix with charismatic ease, elevating the track’s playful sarcasm. With the tongue-in-cheek refrain “what I wouldn’t give to hear a man yell four,” Gin Wife crafts a love song to pro golfers she openly finds “incredibly unappealing,” inspired by a reluctant trip to the driving range with her stepdad. The result is a witty, weirdly heartfelt track that radiates charm and confidence, carrying a sound reminiscent of The Strokes and even Phoenix.
Written around a “goofy” bass riff to conquer writer’s block, the song bounces with the same chaotic joy as the summer recording session that birthed it, complete with laughter, chain smoking and beer. This in a nutshell is exactly what this song sounds like: a whole lot of fun. Energetic, infectious, and full of indie swagger, “Pro Golfers” shows Gin Wife’s sonic versatility and captivating vocal delivery. At this point, crafting clever, catchy tracks is simply par for the course. My Music Mixtape
i’ll see you when the game resets – Wotts
“With the release of FLANK!, Wotts have delivered listeners their most personal project to date. The way Wotts sees it, the EP doesn’t just offer a collection of songs, it offers an invitation to sit with what hurts and hope. As Ricky puts it, ‘What we really want people to get from the EP is that it’s ok to feel lost, and it’s also ok to believe something good is still out there’”
Excerpt from Wotts press material for “i’ll see you when the game resets”
Ottawa indie pop duo Wotts continue their impressive run with “i’ll see you when the game resets”, the final single from their new EP FLANK!. The track marks a slight departure from the duo’s shimmering indie pop palette, trading warm synths and piano-driven melodies for something grittier and more textured. There’s a strong 90s alt-rock influence here, reminiscent of Adore-era Smashing Pumpkins, complete with electronic flourishes layered over lo-fi guitar and raw instrumentation that once again showcases their willingness to bend and blend genre conventions.
The verses open with an introspective tone, guided by airy, ethereal vocals that immediately pull you into the track’s nostalgic soundscape. The chorus contrasts that mood with a more energetic, elevated dynamic, brought to life through a memorable vocal line. The closing guitar solo acts as a cathartic release and is among many standout elements, tying the track together in a way that feels final but not heavy.
As the last single from FLANK!, the song closes the chapter on a project that explores “loss, memory, and emotional rebirth”—themes that are certainly present here, but never overwhelming. Instead, Wotts strike a delicate balance between melancholy and accessibility, while highlighting the tension between internal emotion and outward expression. “i’ll see you when the game resets” may be one of the duo’s most personal tracks to date, but it still carries the feel-good sensibility that first drew us in. It’s a fitting goodbye that doesn’t linger in sorrow, instead offering something thoughtful, immersive, and deeply human. Wotts have consistently shown they know their way around an infectious hook—but here, they show they also know when to let a certain feeling linger.
With FLANK! now fully unveiled—a brilliant collection we’ve followed from start to finish—Wotts close this chapter with quiet force and a clear sense of resolution. But in the final note of “i’ll see you when the game resets” lies the spark of something new. This may be the end of one story, but it’s also the opening scene of the next—and we’ll be listening closely as it unfolds. My Music Mixtape
Believers And Dreamers (What Have We Become) – Josh Orange
“Delving into societal issues, the song builds to an anthemic climax, reflecting the current state of the world and challenging listeners to confront the injustices around them…this track serves as an anthem for today, resonating with audiences who crave authenticity and meaningful music.”
Excerpt from Josh Orange press material for “Believers And Dreamers (What Have We Become)”
On “Believers & Dreamers (What Have We Become)”, Sydney-based singer-songwriter Josh Orange delivers a thoughtful, textured track that balances grit with melody. Drawing on the spirit of ’90s alt-rock, the song is anchored by a steady bass line, crunchy guitars, and a chorus that lingers long after the first listen thanks to Orange’s infectious vocal line. There’s an ease to the way Orange blends rock’s edgier roots with a more melodic, pop-influenced sensibility—one that’s likely to resonate across a wide audience.
What really sets the track apart is its sonic detail. The inclusion of a saxophone in the bridge brings to mind the heartland rock stylings of Bruce Springsteen and the emotional edge of Sam Fender. And the harp, played by Kaela Harp, adds an unexpected layer of warmth and depth that subtly enhances the track without pulling focus. It’s a testament to Orange’s genre-blending approach shaped by 20 years of experience in the industry. The result is a sound that nods to icons like Dire Straits, Bob Dylan, and Britpop heroes Stereophonics, while Tim Palmer’s mix—best known for his work on Pearl Jam’s Ten—adds a polished, contemporary edge that bridges past and present.
Thematically, the track delivers a powerful statement about the injustices in the world around us, offering a blend of introspective reflection and outward exploration. It asks urgent questions about who we are and where we’re headed, with Orange’s Australian and Irish roots supporting the song’s authentic storytelling. “Believers & Dreamers (What Have We Become)” is gritty, reflective and anthemic—and it serves as a bold call to action with its powerful message on society, while offering listeners an opportunity to believe and dream once again. My Music Mixtape
Do You Want Me to? – The Kellows
“‘We’re incredibly excited to share ‘Do You Want Me to’ with the world,’ says frontman Will Harris. ‘Playing SXSW London was an amazing experience, and we can’t wait to bring that energy back to Sheffield for Tramlines Fringe. It’s going to be a special night.’”
Excerpt from The Kellows press material for “Do You Want Me to?”
The members of UK-based The Kellows may only be 17, but their latest single “Do You Want Me to?” is a striking example of a young band with a clear sense of direction and an instinct for what makes a rock song hit. A fast-paced indie rock track with a punchy instrumental and a soaring chorus, it wastes no time getting started—kicking off with driving rhythm work and layered guitar parts that shape a wide and immersive soundscape.
The verses lean into tight drum and bass lines, keeping the energy high while allowing space for the guitars to cut in with gritty riffs and melodic flourishes. It’s a track that balances tension and release, building naturally toward a chorus that’s both catchy and impactful. The refrain—“Do you want me to?”—feels like a challenge and dare, delivered with just the right amount of edge. It’s backed by crunchy guitars and singalong background vocals that give the hook an anthemic quality without tipping into excess. A brief bridge slows things down momentarily, resetting the mood and allowing the final chorus to land with more weight. It’s a smart structural choice that shows the band’s grasp of dynamics and pacing.
With a sound rooted in alt-rock but shaped by a pop rock sensibility, “Do You Want Me to?” feels ready for wide appeal. It’s the kind of track you want blasting from the car stereo on a summer day—uplifting, energetic, and simply fun. Fresh off their SXSW London appearance, The Kellows are gaining momentum—and tracks like this are a clear sign of their potential. My Music Mixtape
All quotes and images provided in artist press material
My Music Mixtape 
Leave a comment