Essential 2010s independent music

The best Independent Music albums of the 2010s.

Where to start with 2010–2019 independent music — with a one-line read on why each one matters.

Top of the 2010s — independent music

Top picks from 2010–2019, ranked by where we would start.

Stardust

Lena Meyer-Landrut

Stardust

A shimmering blend of indie pop and electronic textures that captures the essence of youthful exuberance and introspection.

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Det kommer aldrig va över för mig

Håkan Hellström

Det kommer aldrig va över för mig

'Det kommer aldrig va över för mig' encapsulates Håkan's warmth and emotional depth, providing a cohesive listening experience. The album captures his ability to blend personal stories with universal feelings, ensuring first-time listeners get a full picture of his artistry.

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2 steg från Paradise

Håkan Hellström

2 steg från Paradise

A vibrant blend of folk-pop melodies and introspective lyrics creating a rich tapestry of human experience and emotion.

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Good News

Lena Meyer-Landrut

Good News

'Good News' captures the essence of Lena's artistry, featuring emotionally resonant songs that embody her unique style. This album serves as a cohesive introduction, allowing new listeners to grasp her melodic and lyrical strengths right away.

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But for All These Shrinking Hearts

Josh Pyke

But for All These Shrinking Hearts

A reflective blend of indie folk and pop, woven with heartfelt melodies and introspective lyrics that resonate deeply.

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The Beginning and the End of Everything

Josh Pyke

The Beginning and the End of Everything

An intimate blend of acoustic melodies and reflective lyrics creates a contemplative atmosphere throughout the album.

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Counterfeit Blues

Corb Lund

Counterfeit Blues

A rustic blend of storytelling and twang, where every note feels like an open road adventure through the Canadian landscape.

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Things That Can't Be Undone

Corb Lund

Things That Can't Be Undone

A blend of rootsy storytelling and sharp wit wrapped in vibrant country melodies and folk-infused instrumentation.

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Requiem & Gallipoli

Astrid Williamson

Requiem & Gallipoli

A haunting blend of classical and contemporary sounds, weaving intricate melodies with emotional depth and lyrical poignancy.

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Cub Sport

Cub Sport

Cub Sport

Joyful pop melodies intertwine with introspective lyrics, creating an uplifting yet contemplative atmosphere throughout the album.

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This Is Our Vice

Cub Sport

This Is Our Vice

Eclectic pop melodies intertwine with candid lyrics, creating an emotionally charged atmosphere that captures both euphoria and vulnerability.

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Mutabor

Alina Orlova

Mutabor

Ethereal melodies intertwine with haunting vocals, creating a dreamlike soundscape that transcends linguistic boundaries.

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EVERYONE AFRAID TO BE FORGOTTEN

Jonna Lee

EVERYONE AFRAID TO BE FORGOTTEN

A haunting blend of ethereal vocals and electronic soundscapes that explore themes of memory and identity.

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REMEMBER THE FUTURE

Jonna Lee

REMEMBER THE FUTURE

Ethereal synths and haunting vocals weave together a dreamlike exploration of identity and existence.

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Ashes

Kyla La Grange

Ashes

A haunting blend of ethereal melodies and introspective lyrics, merging indie pop with a touch of folk sensibility.

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Rod Boleche Hobe

Shayan Chowdhury Arnob

Rod Boleche Hobe

A fusion of folk and contemporary sounds, weaving introspective lyrics with melodic instrumentation that reflects the essence of Bengali culture.

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Adheko Ghume

Shayan Chowdhury Arnob

Adheko Ghume

A gentle blend of folk melodies and contemporary arrangements, creating a dreamlike atmosphere that invites introspection.

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Run Wolves Run

Sean Hayes

Run Wolves Run

An intimate blend of folk and soul, woven with heartfelt narratives and gentle melodies that invite reflection.

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The Way Sound Leaves a Room

Sarah Jaffe

The Way Sound Leaves a Room

Ethereal melodies entwine with introspective lyrics, creating a haunting atmosphere that echoes the complexities of human emotion.

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The Body Wins

Sarah Jaffe

The Body Wins

Intimate melodies intertwine with sharp, incisive lyrics, exploring emotional landscapes through a blend of folk and pop sensibilities.

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Cut Your Teeth

Kyla La Grange

Cut Your Teeth

Electro-pop melodies intertwine with introspective lyrics, creating a haunting yet uplifting sonic landscape.

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Out of Frequency

The Asteroids Galaxy Tour

Out of Frequency

A vibrant blend of pop and psychedelic sounds that swirl with playful energy and a hint of nostalgia.

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Walls

An Horse

Walls

Ethereal melodies intertwine with driving rhythms, creating an introspective soundscape that balances melancholy and resilience.

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Innocence

Pontiak

Innocence

A raw, expansive blend of psych-rock and atmospheric textures that invites introspection and exploration.

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