Skip to content
  • Instagram
  • Facebook
  • Twitter
  • TikTok
  • YouTube
RockCharts News

RockCharts News

RockCharts.News

  • Home
  • Login
  • Music Services
    • Playlists
    • Our Services
    • Make Money
    • Publish An Article
  • Music News Network
    • Indie Music News Portals
    • FREE Guide: Get On News!
    • FREE Guide: Be Interviewed!
    • PopHits.Co Indie Music Charts
  • About Us
    • Contact Us
    • Social Project
    • Casting Network
Watch Online
  • Home
  • Music
  • Summer Music Selection: Crushingly Intelligent Indie Soft Rock Bands
  • Artist
  • Featured
  • Music
  • Shout-Out!

Summer Music Selection: Crushingly Intelligent Indie Soft Rock Bands

Will Lisil 15 August 2022

Are indie rock, indie pop, and indie folk music for you? How about some down-tempo, mid-tempo and slow ballads?

Yeah, that’s what I thought. What about intelligent lyrics, especially abstract lyrics? This is for people who want to dream-pop a bit after a tough day at work.

Oh yeah, baby! I’ve got just the thing introverts are looking for in their music: warm synth tones with achingly beautiful and ethereal vocals.

Most people who like music usually agree on a lot of categories and genres. However, it’s highly unlikely that everyone will be able to come to an agreement when it comes to the genre of indie soft-rock.

Enjoying this article? Get more like it.

Get our latest articles delivered to your inbox.

This is because the genre is quite obscure and a little bit vague. But, what can’t be denied are the soothing sounds that this music once played on a loop is capable of providing comfort and relief from stress, pressure and other worries.

Joshua Ketchmark releasing Blood

That being said, there are ten good examples of independent bands who have made a good soft-rock effort in their albums and singles.

You can listen to our full playlist which contains the artists’ music, and know more about their work by scrolling down the page.


1) SILENT D – Needin’ Reason

I’m a huge fan of the 90’s rock, alt-rock and pop alternative music, so when I found out about this artist called Silent D, I was so excited to listen to their new single “Needin’ Reason”.

Their single is a blend of pop rock and rhythm and blues with male vocals that makes me want to dance every time I hear it! Their sound is very similar to artists like Hozier and Bon Iver, but they have their own unique styles as well.

If you’re a fan of 90’s rock and alt-pop alternative music then you should definitely check out Silent D and follow the artist on Spotify!


2) THE MARS MCCLANES – Day Is Done

If you’re a fan of alt-rock, pop, and indie music, you may want to check out THE MARS MCCLANES.

The Portland-based band recently released their new single “Day Is Done,” which is a melodic pop rock anthem that’ll lift your spirits and give you the warm fuzzies.

It’s got elements of soft rock and indie rock, with male vocals that are easy on the ears. If you like bands like Coldplay, Foster The People, and The 1975—we are sure you will love it.

If you’re just looking for something to listen to while sitting on the beach with friends—this is also the song for you! You can stream it on Spotify now. Check it out and follow the band.


3) MADAM WHO? – Reclaim Your Power

If you’re looking for an album to give you 80’s vibes, look no further than “Reclaim Your Power” by “MADAM WHO?“. This is the kind of album that will make you want to get up and dance. The songs are catchy and fast-paced, with fun lyrics that are perfect for singing along.

Whether it’s a song about enjoying life or one about taking back control of your life, this album has something for everyone. The singer-songwriter behind MADAM WHO?, based in US, Pittsville, has been making music for some years, but this album is something different.

They have a knack for creating catchy rock pop songs with female vocals that sound like an anthem for anyone who’s ever felt like she was missing something in her life—and then found it again. It’s emotional, it’s about feelings.

So whether you’re into classic rock or power pop or even some good old-fashioned 80s vibes—check out Reclaim Your Power by MADAM WHO? and follow the band on Spotify.


4) NATIONAL SERVICE – Milktooth

I can’t get over how good this track is. The band is called NATIONAL SERVICE and their single is called Milktooth.

The artists are based in the United Kingdom, London and they have a really unique sound that I’ve never heard before. It’s definitely worth checking out!

I love the way they combine sounds in this song: it’s very alternative rock but also has some new wave elements to it, which makes it sound like a soundtrack for a movie about your life.

The lyrics are super catchy, too; they’re kind of anthemic, so you’ll find yourself singing along as soon as you hear them.

This is an excellent song for when you’re driving around town or hanging out with friends—it’ll pump you up for anything! If you like indie rock music with male vocals and new wave style, then check out National Service on Spotify today and follow the band!


5) PATRICK AMES – Harmonium

Patrick Ames‘ latest album, Harmonium, is a throwback to the folk-rock sound of the 70s and 80s. This is great news if you’re into acoustic folk rock with soft rock vibes and singer-songwriter sensibilities.

There are some really beautiful guitar parts that will take you back to when you first heard Fleetwood Mac or Bruce Springsteen—but it’s also got plenty of newer elements as well.

The artist is based in Napa Valley, California, so it makes sense that there are some hints of Americana in his music. If you like rootsy music with a little bit of an edge, then this is definitely an album for you!

If any of this sounds like something you’d be interested in, check out Patrick Ames’ Spotify and follow the artist.


6) SLIME LUSH – Custom Slaughter

Indie soft rock band Slime Lush has just released their new album, Custom Slaughter.

The album is a mix of alternative rock and pop, with a hint of emo rock and garage rock. The songs on this album will make you want to sit in the dark with a bunch of candles, listen to the music and cry your little heart out. But it’s so good that you will repeat it!

The band is based in Boswell, Pennsylvania and they have been making music for some years, so it’s the result of good experience and diverse influences.

If you like garage rock and emotive music, I highly recommend checking out their music and following them on Spotify!


7) WAYNE MERDINGER – Troubadour

If you’re looking for a piece of new soft rock music to chill out with, try WAYNE MERDINGER. His album, Troubadour, is filled with songs that combine folk rock, classic rock and singer-songwriter sound to create a beautifully unique music style.

It’s very nostalgic, at times, it feels like you’re listening to a classic acoustic rock song from the 70s or 80s—but then suddenly there’s a guitar riff that gives you pause because it sounds so fresh and new.

Merdinger is from the US, Scottsdale, and it definitely shows in his music too—his style is eclectic and inspiringly unique!

If you want more info about Wayne Merdinger check out his portfolio and follow the artist on Spotify!


8) CANDY RIOT – Only You

CANDY RIOT is an indie soft rock band based in Austin, TX. Their single “Only You” is a synth-driven masterpiece that will have you dancing and singing along from the first note.

It’s got some 80’s vibes, some synth-pop influences, and even a little bit of dance music thrown in for good measure. There is some magic in the lyrics too and the mix of everything gets really interesting.

This is a perfect song for anyone who loves to sing along to their favourite songs on the radio or playlists at home. It’s also perfect for anyone who loves 80’s music or synth-based bands like Chvrches.

If you love listening to new music and want some new tracks in your life, check out CANDY RIOT on Spotify and follow the band!


9) LATO – Machine Head Warning

Machine Head Warning is a single from Italian indie rock band LATO, released as part of their latest album ALT ROCK. The track is a perfect example of the band’s signature sound: an upbeat, catchy song with a smooth synth backing.

The vocals are sexy and are backed up by an instrumental track that includes elements like heavy drums and some guitar riffs, but also pop rock elements like synthesizers.

Machine Head Warning is a good introduction to this band’s music if you’re not familiar with them yet; it’s easy to listen to and fun without being too “out there.”

It will definitely get stuck in your head after one listen. Check it out, watch their music video and follow the band on Spotify!


10) JOSHUA KETCHMARK – Blood

Every once in a while, you hear a song that stops you in your tracks. It’s an immediate connection, and it’s like the artist is singing right to you. The artist is JOSHUA KETCHMARK, based out of Nashville, Tennessee, and they’re making music that makes you want to listen on repeat.

Their latest album BLOOD is a beautifully crafted collection of songs that are reminiscent of classic Americana sounds with a modern twist—think soft rock with hints of blues style thrown into the mix. We just loved it!

The album is full of anthemic tracks that will get stuck in your head for days (in a good way), but it also has some quieter moments where Joshua’s vocals really shine through. Check out this band’s new album today and follow them on Spotify!


Tony Iommi seated at a long oak table with his black SG guitar in a wood-panelled hall
Article Artists Featured Music News Rock

Tony Iommi’s From the Dark Ends a 21-Year Solo Silence

Will Lisil
30 July 2026
Tony Iommi has not put his own name on the front of an album since 2005. On 29 July he…

Read More..

Jeune Immersion Bastion Still Sounds Like Two Songs Playing at Once

Jeune Immersion Bastion Still Sounds Like Two Songs Playing at Once

Hobo Sermons Low Holds Its Shape Three Years After the Single Landed

Hobo Sermons Low Holds Its Shape Three Years After the Single Landed

Sinner's Song Took Gus Zimbalist Five Years and Roughly 150 Layers

Sinner’s Song Took Gus Zimbalist Five Years and Roughly 150 Layers

Business as Usual by D.G. Adams Still Burns a Year After Release

Business as Usual by D.G. Adams Still Burns a Year After Release

Nothing2u by Euan Blackman Blends Alt Rock Pop and Alt-Folk

Nothing2u by Euan Blackman Blends Alt Rock Pop and Alt-Folk

A Hymn for the Unburied Is Wildcard Campfire's Debut Heavy Metal Anthem

A Hymn for the Unburied Is Wildcard Campfire’s Debut Heavy Metal Anthem

Slipknot in 2026: A New Album, a Knotfest Roadshow and a 2008 Vault Opens

Slipknot in 2026: A New Album, a Knotfest Roadshow and a 2008 Vault Opens

Adam Nelson Turns 8-Bit Nostalgia Into Metal on the Metal Mario EP

Adam Nelson Turns 8-Bit Nostalgia Into Metal on the Metal Mario EP

Iron Maiden Live in 2026: Run For Your Lives and 50 Years of the Beast

Iron Maiden Live in 2026: Run For Your Lives and 50 Years of the Beast

Liat Dagan Channels Catharsis Through Gothic Folk Rock on "Pale"

Liat Dagan Channels Catharsis Through Gothic Folk Rock on “Pale”

AVTAPNS Sin Palabras Leans Into Black Metal Darkness

AVTAPNS Sin Palabras Leans Into Black Metal Darkness

ENAVE Skeletons Still Resonates Across Dark Wave and Alt Rock

ENAVE Skeletons Still Resonates Across Dark Wave and Alt Rock

Karl McHugh Gold Brings Donegal Folk-Rock to a Guitar-Driven Single

Karl McHugh Gold Brings Donegal Folk-Rock to a Guitar-Driven Single

Backup Fuse Hard Rock and Latin Fire on Corazon

Backup Fuse Hard Rock and Latin Fire on Corazon

'Even in the Dark' Marks Deaf Locust's Return on the Kakorrhaphiophobia EP

‘Even in the Dark’ Marks Deaf Locust’s Return on the Kakorrhaphiophobia EP

Broken Spaceship Fuse Post-Punk and Poetic Hip-Hop on "A Part with Some Significance"

Broken Spaceship Fuse Post-Punk and Poetic Hip-Hop on “A Part with Some Significance”

About Author

Will Lisil

Director & Digital Creator at MW3.biz Ltd, United Kingdom.

See author's posts

Stay in the loop

Get our latest articles delivered to your inbox.

Tony Iommi seated at a long oak table with his black SG guitar in a wood-panelled hall
Article Artists Featured Music News Rock

Tony Iommi’s From the Dark Ends a 21-Year Solo Silence

Will Lisil
30 July 2026
Tony Iommi has not put his own name on the front of an album since 2005. On 29 July he…

Read More..

Jeune Immersion Bastion Still Sounds Like Two Songs Playing at Once
Article Featured Independent Music New Release News Rock Shout-Out!

Jeune Immersion Bastion Still Sounds Like Two Songs Playing at Once

Will Lisil
28 July 2026
A Lubbock Alt Rock Band and A Metalcore Crew Sharing One Track Most collaborations split the difference. immersion feat bastion…

Read More..

Hobo Sermons Low Holds Its Shape Three Years After the Single Landed

Hobo Sermons Low Holds Its Shape Three Years After the Single Landed

Sinner's Song Took Gus Zimbalist Five Years and Roughly 150 Layers

Sinner’s Song Took Gus Zimbalist Five Years and Roughly 150 Layers

Business as Usual by D.G. Adams Still Burns a Year After Release

Business as Usual by D.G. Adams Still Burns a Year After Release

Nothing2u by Euan Blackman Blends Alt Rock Pop and Alt-Folk

Nothing2u by Euan Blackman Blends Alt Rock Pop and Alt-Folk

A Hymn for the Unburied Is Wildcard Campfire's Debut Heavy Metal Anthem

A Hymn for the Unburied Is Wildcard Campfire’s Debut Heavy Metal Anthem

Slipknot in 2026: A New Album, a Knotfest Roadshow and a 2008 Vault Opens

Slipknot in 2026: A New Album, a Knotfest Roadshow and a 2008 Vault Opens

Adam Nelson Turns 8-Bit Nostalgia Into Metal on the Metal Mario EP

Adam Nelson Turns 8-Bit Nostalgia Into Metal on the Metal Mario EP

Iron Maiden Live in 2026: Run For Your Lives and 50 Years of the Beast

Iron Maiden Live in 2026: Run For Your Lives and 50 Years of the Beast

Liat Dagan Channels Catharsis Through Gothic Folk Rock on "Pale"

Liat Dagan Channels Catharsis Through Gothic Folk Rock on “Pale”

AVTAPNS Sin Palabras Leans Into Black Metal Darkness

AVTAPNS Sin Palabras Leans Into Black Metal Darkness

ENAVE Skeletons Still Resonates Across Dark Wave and Alt Rock

ENAVE Skeletons Still Resonates Across Dark Wave and Alt Rock

Karl McHugh Gold Brings Donegal Folk-Rock to a Guitar-Driven Single

Karl McHugh Gold Brings Donegal Folk-Rock to a Guitar-Driven Single

Load More
Tags: alternative artists alternative music best indie albums of 2022 Independent Artists indie albums indie alternative indie music indie musicians indie rock indie rock music indie soft-rock indie soft-rock music indie soft-rock music to update your playlist indie songs Music music reviews mw3.biz new release playlist PopHits.co pophits.news soft-rock songs of the week topmusic.news

Post navigation

Previous Fresh Music: Check Out 10 Indie Rock Benders To Wake Up Your Ears
Next Rock Selection: Indie Rock Bands That Got Us Through The Summer

Related Stories

Tony Iommi’s From the Dark Ends a 21-Year Solo Silence Tony Iommi seated at a long oak table with his black SG guitar in a wood-panelled hall
  • Article

Tony Iommi’s From the Dark Ends a 21-Year Solo Silence

30 July 2026
Jeune Immersion Bastion Still Sounds Like Two Songs Playing at Once Jeune Immersion Bastion Still Sounds Like Two Songs Playing at Once
  • Article

Jeune Immersion Bastion Still Sounds Like Two Songs Playing at Once

28 July 2026
Hobo Sermons Low Holds Its Shape Three Years After the Single Landed Hobo Sermons Low Holds Its Shape Three Years After the Single Landed
  • Article

Hobo Sermons Low Holds Its Shape Three Years After the Single Landed

28 July 2026



About Us

RockCharts.News

We mainly focus on Rock music, independent artist industry, showbiz and events. Powered by PopHits.Co Music Charts & Distribution Platform

FREE ACCOUNT

PopHits.Co sends your songs to over 150 music stores, including all main social networks as TikTok, Instagram and Facebook

Get Started

Recent Posts

  • Tony Iommi’s From the Dark Ends a 21-Year Solo Silence
  • Jeune Immersion Bastion Still Sounds Like Two Songs Playing at Once
  • Hobo Sermons Low Holds Its Shape Three Years After the Single Landed
  • Sinner’s Song Took Gus Zimbalist Five Years and Roughly 150 Layers
  • Business as Usual by D.G. Adams Still Burns a Year After Release
  • Nothing2u by Euan Blackman Blends Alt Rock Pop and Alt-Folk
  • A Hymn for the Unburied Is Wildcard Campfire’s Debut Heavy Metal Anthem
  • Slipknot in 2026: A New Album, a Knotfest Roadshow and a 2008 Vault Opens
  • Adam Nelson Turns 8-Bit Nostalgia Into Metal on the Metal Mario EP
  • Iron Maiden Live in 2026: Run For Your Lives and 50 Years of the Beast

Powered By

PopHits.Co Independent Music Charts & Distribution

Music Distribution for Music Labels & Independent Artists - Pophits.Co sends your songs to all music stores and social networks, and automatically distribute them to new stores when available.

  • Home
  • Login
  • Music Services
  • Music News Network
  • About Us
  • Instagram
  • Facebook
  • Twitter
  • TikTok
  • YouTube
Copyright © All rights reserved. | DarkNews by AF themes.
RockCharts News
Manage Consent
To provide the best experiences, we use technologies like cookies to store and/or access device information. Consenting to these technologies will allow us to process data such as browsing behavior or unique IDs on this site. Not consenting or withdrawing consent, may adversely affect certain features and functions.
Functional Always active
The technical storage or access is strictly necessary for the legitimate purpose of enabling the use of a specific service explicitly requested by the subscriber or user, or for the sole purpose of carrying out the transmission of a communication over an electronic communications network.
Preferences
The technical storage or access is necessary for the legitimate purpose of storing preferences that are not requested by the subscriber or user.
Statistics
The technical storage or access that is used exclusively for statistical purposes. The technical storage or access that is used exclusively for anonymous statistical purposes. Without a subpoena, voluntary compliance on the part of your Internet Service Provider, or additional records from a third party, information stored or retrieved for this purpose alone cannot usually be used to identify you.
Marketing
The technical storage or access is required to create user profiles to send advertising, or to track the user on a website or across several websites for similar marketing purposes.
  • Manage options
  • Manage services
  • Manage {vendor_count} vendors
  • Read more about these purposes
View preferences
  • {title}
  • {title}
  • {title}