by Sophie Ommen
Indie music has taken over the music world with its ever-expanding sub genres such as indie folk, indie rock, indie pop, the whole nine yards! Though, what is it that makes indie music considered indie, and how do we classify this broad sound?
For starters, indie is short for independent, meaning that it doesn’t fall into the categories of the other music genres like pop, rock, country, etc. Its independent nature leads to a very broad genre that can sound like a lot of different genres combined. For example, The Paper Kites and Watchouse, two of my favorite bands, are great examples of indie folk music. This type of sub-genre uses instruments like the banjo, guitar, or other stringed instruments that resemble a lightness and a folky nature. This genre reminds me of campfire songs, hanging with friends, or simply finding inspiration in life.
Contrary to this sound, though, is indie pop. This sub-genre represents a more upbeat sound with high volumes of bass and even some electric guitar! Some of my favorite indie pop artists are Clario, Lorde, and Dayglow, and this sub-genre makes me feel happy and optimistic. While it brings in aspects of the pop world and has that contagious flair to it, it’s still under the genre of indie for me because it’s more relaxed and eclectic.
For indie rock, I always think of The Strokes as my top example. They have such groovy and sometimes ominous chords, which I think is so fun, especially mixed with the drum progression and electric guitar feel. I think my favorite thing about indie music is how experimental it is. It lets down the limitations that are a part of the musical genre and allows space for one’s own interpretation. It gives the artist the ability to mess around and see what they can come up with, even if it sounds completely abnormal.
Speaking of all things indie, WONC has a new show, She Spins Indie, created for those who love indie music! Catch Olivia Rosenberg and me every Wednesday evenings from 6-8. We discuss indie music, the broadness of the genre, and what our go-to indie bands are. You won’t want to miss this fun, relaxed, and indie-filled night! Tune in, expand your genres, or listen to some of your long-time favorites. You won’t regret it!
