Advertisements

14 Indie Country Music Tracks Recommended

by Barbara
Sturgill Simpson

Indie country is a subgenre that has gained significant traction in the past two decades. Unlike mainstream country, which tends to focus on commercial appeal, indie country artists are often more focused on authenticity, storytelling, and pushing the boundaries of traditional sounds. These artists often experiment with different arrangements and lyrics, exploring deeper, more personal themes. What makes indie country particularly compelling is its willingness to evolve, taking influences from a wide array of genres while maintaining the core values of country music: honesty, emotion, and an appreciation for the simple beauty of life.

In this article, we’ll look at 14 tracks from some of the best indie country artists. Each song captures the essence of what makes indie country so distinct: emotive lyrics, unique instrumentation, and the ability to convey complex emotions in a way that feels both intimate and expansive. Whether it’s the melancholic crooning of artists like Courtney Marie Andrews or the upbeat, rock-infused sound of Sturgill Simpson, indie country’s diversity is on full display here.

Advertisements

14 Indie Country Music Tracks Recommended

1. Sturgill Simpson – “Turtles All the Way Down”

Sturgill Simpson’s “Turtles All the Way Down” from his 2014 album Metamodern Sounds in Country Music is a perfect example of indie country’s ability to blend traditional sounds with modern, often experimental influences. The track features a mix of country, rock, and psychedelic elements, with Simpson’s soulful vocals at the forefront. The song’s lyrics explore themes of spirituality, existentialism, and self-discovery, making it a thought-provoking track that challenges conventional ideas about country music. The track’s distinctive blend of guitar riffs and psychedelic undertones has made it a standout in Simpson’s catalog, appealing to both country purists and fans of experimental sounds.

Advertisements

2. Courtney Marie Andrews – “Kindness of Strangers”

Courtney Marie Andrews’ “Kindness of Strangers,” from her 2018 album May Your Kindness Remain, is a poignant exploration of loss, vulnerability, and finding comfort in others. Andrews’ voice is raw and soulful, with a tone that conveys both heartache and hope. The song’s arrangement, featuring gentle acoustic guitar and a subtle rhythm section, allows the lyrics to take center stage. The track’s simplicity is what makes it so powerful, with Andrews’ evocative storytelling shining through in every verse. “Kindness of Strangers” stands out as one of the most emotive songs in modern indie country, capturing a sense of both personal grief and universal empathy.

Advertisements

3. Tyler Childers – “Feathered Indians”

Tyler Childers’ “Feathered Indians,” from his 2017 album Purgatory, is an energetic, foot-stomping track that combines elements of traditional bluegrass, country, and folk with Childers’ own unique voice. The song tells a story of love, youthful rebellion, and adventure, set against the backdrop of the American South. Childers’ raspy, gravelly voice gives the track a raw, authentic feel, while his clever lyrics paint vivid pictures of life in the Appalachian region. “Feathered Indians” has become one of Childers’ signature songs, showcasing his ability to fuse old-country sounds with modern sensibilities.

4. Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit – “If We Were Vampires”

Jason Isbell’s “If We Were Vampires,” from the album The Nashville Sound (2017), is a beautifully melancholic track about love, mortality, and the fleeting nature of life. Isbell’s poignant lyrics explore how the knowledge of death makes love all the more precious and urgent. The instrumentation, featuring a tender acoustic guitar and a subtle, but powerful, string section, creates a melancholic atmosphere that perfectly complements the song’s themes. “If We Were Vampires” is a perfect example of indie country’s ability to address profound, existential questions through intimate storytelling.

5. Margo Price – “Hurtin’ (On the Bottle)”

Margo Price’s “Hurtin’ (On the Bottle),” from her 2016 album Midwest Farmer’s Daughter, is a classic honky-tonk anthem with a modern twist. Price’s powerful vocals capture the pain and regret of a woman drowning her sorrows in alcohol, reflecting themes of loss, longing, and self-destruction. The track’s instrumentation, driven by a classic country rhythm section and twangy guitars, evokes the sounds of vintage country music, while Price’s raw, emotional delivery brings a contemporary edge to the song. “Hurtin’ (On the Bottle)” is a standout in Price’s career and showcases her ability to craft songs that are both timeless and uniquely her own.

6. The Oh Hellos – “The Lament of the Cherokee”

The Oh Hellos’ “The Lament of the Cherokee” from their 2015 album Dear Wormwood is a unique blend of indie folk and country, with a focus on intricate storytelling. The song tells the story of a Cherokee man reflecting on the pain of his people’s history and the effects of colonization. The Oh Hellos use a mixture of folk, country, and Americana elements to create a layered, evocative sound. The track’s poetic lyrics and lush harmonies make it stand out in the indie country landscape, offering a thought-provoking take on history through the lens of modern country.

7. Orville Peck – “Dead of Night”

Orville Peck’s “Dead of Night” from his album Pony (2019) is a haunting, atmospheric track that blends traditional country with elements of goth and Americana. Peck’s deep, reverb-laden voice immediately draws the listener in, creating a sense of mystery and intrigue. The song’s lyrics explore themes of love, loss, and longing, all set against the backdrop of a dark, almost cinematic soundscape. “Dead of Night” perfectly captures the eerie, otherworldly feeling that defines much of Peck’s music, making it one of the standout tracks in the indie country scene.

8. Kacey Musgraves – “Space Cowboy”

Kacey Musgraves’ “Space Cowboy,” from her 2018 album Golden Hour, blends indie country with a touch of pop and synth elements. The track’s melancholic lyrics reflect the end of a relationship and the sense of freedom that comes with letting go. Musgraves’ smooth, airy vocals are complemented by dreamy instrumentation, creating a feeling of emotional distance. “Space Cowboy” is a departure from traditional country sounds, with its subtle, spacey production offering a more introspective and modern approach to the genre. It’s a beautiful example of how indie country can embrace pop influences without losing its country roots.

9. John Moreland – “Love Is Not An Answer”

John Moreland’s “Love Is Not An Answer” from his album Big Bad Luv (2017) is a stark, introspective track about heartache and the complex nature of love. Moreland’s weathered voice, combined with the minimalistic instrumentation, creates a hauntingly intimate atmosphere. The lyrics dive deep into the struggles of navigating love and emotional pain, expressing a sense of resignation and vulnerability. The track’s simplicity, with its focus on Moreland’s voice and a gentle guitar arrangement, allows the emotional weight of the song to resonate deeply with listeners. “Love Is Not An Answer” is an emotionally raw exploration of the limits and complexities of love.

10. Sturgill Simpson – “All Around You”

Sturgill Simpson’s “All Around You” from his album A Sailor’s Guide to Earth (2016) is a beautiful, melancholic track that combines classic country instrumentation with modern production techniques. The song, which blends elements of soul, country, and rock, features poignant lyrics about personal growth and finding peace in the face of life’s challenges. Simpson’s soulful voice and the track’s rich, layered instrumentation create a deeply moving listening experience. “All Around You” stands as a reminder of the beauty of life’s fleeting moments and the importance of personal connection, making it a standout in Simpson’s discography.

11. The Civil Wars – “Barton Hollow”

“The Civil Wars” (Joy Williams and John Paul White) captured the hearts of country fans with their haunting track “Barton Hollow” from their 2011 album of the same name. The song’s moody atmosphere is defined by haunting harmonies and acoustic instrumentation, offering a haunting narrative about a troubled relationship. The Civil Wars’ minimalist approach to production, with sparse arrangements and emotional vocal performances, makes this track one of the most impactful in the indie country genre. “Barton Hollow” captures the sense of mystery and emotional tension that runs throughout much of their work, making it an unforgettable indie country anthem.

12. Gillian Welch – “Look at Miss Ohio”

Gillian Welch’s “Look at Miss Ohio,” from her 2003 album Soul Journey, is a reflective track that examines the pressures of small-town life and the yearning for something more. With its sparse instrumentation and melancholic vibe, the song showcases Welch’s ability to evoke complex emotions through simple melodies. The lyrics reflect themes of dissatisfaction, nostalgia, and the desire for freedom, which resonate deeply with anyone feeling trapped by circumstance. “Look at Miss Ohio” stands out as an example of how indie country can combine elements of folk, bluegrass, and Americana to create something deeply introspective and compelling.

13. Colter Wall – “Sleeping on the Blacktop”

Colter Wall’s “Sleeping on the Blacktop,” from his 2017 album Colter Wall, is a haunting track that blends traditional country with a modern sensibility. Wall’s deep, gravelly voice gives the song a sense of raw authenticity, while the sparse, minimalist instrumentation highlights the song’s dark, introspective lyrics. “Sleeping on the Blacktop” tells the story of a restless, nomadic figure who is constantly searching for something, whether it be purpose or escape. Wall’s ability to craft evocative imagery through his lyrics and his deep, resonant voice makes this track an essential part of the modern indie country canon.

14. Sarah Shook & The Disarmers – “New Ways to Fail”

Sarah Shook & The Disarmers’ “New Ways to Fail,” from their 2018 album Years, is a raw and gritty track about the destructive nature of personal shortcomings. With a blend of punk, honky-tonk, and indie influences, the song captures the feeling of frustration and self-doubt. Shook’s raspy vocals perfectly convey the angst and turmoil that underpins the song, while the instrumentation, driven by twangy guitars and a driving rhythm section, adds a sense of urgency to the track. “New Ways to Fail” is a perfect example of how indie country can merge punk energy with traditional country storytelling.

See Also: Top 25 Best Old Country Music Songs of All Time: Revealed

Conclusion

Indie country music continues to evolve, pushing the boundaries of traditional country while staying rooted in the genre’s core principles of storytelling and emotional depth. The artists featured in this article represent the diversity and innovation found within the genre, each contributing a unique sound and perspective. From the experimental, genre-blending work of Sturgill Simpson to the raw, introspective lyrics of Courtney Marie Andrews, indie country remains one of the most exciting and dynamic subgenres of modern music. Whether you are drawn to its melancholic themes, raw honesty, or experimental instrumentation, indie country has something to offer every listener.

Related Topics

The 30 Greatest Classic Country Music Songs

Why Did Beyoncé Go Country Music?

Easton Corbin’s 7 Catchy Country Hits Revealed

related articles

Dive into the enchanting world of music at OurMusicWorld.com, your ultimate destination for discovering new and diverse sounds. From emerging artists to timeless classics, embark on a musical journey that transcends genres and captivates your senses.

Copyright © 2023 ourmusicworld.com