11 Indie Songs Similar to Radiohead
If you’re drawn to Radiohead’s atmosphere, emotion, and experimentation, this collection is for you. We’ve dug through our previous submissions to find the tracks that echo different corners of the Radiohead universe. Whether you prefer haunting minimalism or textured sonic landscapes, we have you covered.
MVSO – “Hold Clear”
Brooklyn-based duo MVSO kick the list off with the emotive and ethereal ballad “Hold Clear.” From the introspective vocal delivery to the haunting electric guitar riffs, the track is a compelling listen that follows in the folk and alt-rock footsteps of Radiohead.
Vilde – “Barren Still”
Vilde, from Melbourne, Australia, gives strong Radiohead vibes with “Barren Still.” Lush synth layers sprawl over frosty, brisk electronic percussion while fluid electric guitar lines foster a vivid, airy atmosphere. Every sound is perfectly shaped, geometric, and deeply immersive.
Photo by Laurine Jousserand
“Pilgrimage” by Montreal psych rockers Elephant Stone gives off strong hints of Radiohead’s “Airbag.” From the cadence of the drums to the warm, variable pulse of the bass and the warbling electric guitar, this one is truly satisfying.
Photo by Sara Laufer
From Brooklyn, New York, JLJR fearlessly drags pop through what feels like an anxious urban environment while creating beautiful, kaleidoscopic indie rock/folk compositions. The EP, The Rest of Your Life, is a sonic journey where many of the songs carry the same tense, restless energy as Radiohead’s post-OK Computer material. We recommend checking out “Thumbtack.”
Keyside – “Turn Back The Time”
Liverpool band Keyside’s “Turn Back The Time” is built around ethereal lead guitar drenched in reverb. The contemplative, wistful atmosphere and melody are, in some ways, reminiscent of Radiohead’s “No Surprises.” The track is epic, spacious, and filled with poignant lyrics.
From Montreal, Canada, Al Nicol conjures heavy Thom Yorke vibes as he portrays the pitfalls of fame on “Hollywood.” It is a perfect blend of folk and rock, gently dipping its toes into both genres. Once you hear Nicol’s vocal delivery, the tune quickly turns toward the qualities that originally made so many people fall in love with Radiohead. If you like this, Al Nicol’s EP Been A Long Year, Vol. 1 is definitely worth checking out.
With “Nod and Applause,” JJ Byars has created a tune that will pique the interest of Radiohead fans. There are strong comparisons to In Rainbows throughout this stunning track. Using a wide range of instruments, it covers a great deal of ground in a short amount of time. Every twist and turn feels sublime.
Photo by Lucy Spartalis
Aaron Thomas – “Mouth of the City”
The haunting indie rock track “Mouth of the City” by Adelaide-based singer-songwriter Aaron Thomas has many Radiohead moments. From the lingering vocals to the weaving, shimmering electric guitar work, the song stands out for its almost spiritual atmosphere crossed with undercurrents of anxiety.
Carey Clayton – “Concentric Circles”
Los Angeles-based Carey Clayton’s compelling experimental alternative rock track “Concentric Circles” is a sonic tapestry that ebbs and flows vividly. Opening with guitar, the track quickly layers sounds in kaleidoscopic fashion. If you have a penchant for innovative and melodically adventurous tracks, this one is for you.
Photo by Anca Tintea
Basciville – “Nothing Surprises (Me Anymore)”
Irish brothers Cillian and Lorcan Byrne, aka Basciville, bridge the gap between grit and grace with the soulful alt-rock track “Nothing Surprises (Me Anymore).” In the latter stages, the track’s cool ‘90s-tinged restraint begins to thaw. The steady shuffle gives way to a swelling tide of Radiohead-like instrumentation that fades into quiet reflection.
Pine Barons – “ELECTRIC FINGERTIPS”
Hailing from the USA, Pine Barons take us on a colourful sonic journey filled with weaving electronic layers on “ELECTRIC FINGERTIPS.” Sonic textures constantly shift and evolve as they build a chilled, immersive atmosphere. The vocal feels effortless and at home on the song. It is expressive, gentle, and rich in tone as it breezily reaches falsetto.
Radiohead’s influence stretches far beyond alt-rock traditionalism. These artists tap into different pieces of that world, whether through anxious electronics, expansive guitar work, or emotionally restless songwriting. If you’ve spent years chasing the feeling Radiohead gave you the first time around, there’s a good chance at least one of these tracks will stay in rotation.
And, of course, here’s the playlist: