Ashlee Kothenbeutel
If you like The Weeknd’s “Starboy,” then try Neon Indian’s “Annie.”
Similarities
Dark, electronic, and moody tone
Themes of alienation, filled with emotion, and include immensely memorable and danceable instrumentation.
What’s notable?
This first single from Neon Indian’s excellent 2015 album “Vega Intl. Night School” manages to sound futuristic while being outwardly nostalgic. The song tells the story of a man searching for a girl who has gone missing.
If you like The Chainsmokers’ “Closer,” then try Sylvan Esso’s “Coffee.”
Similarities
Optimistic and romantic lyricism
Electronic instrumentation
What’s notable?
“Coffee” was released as the first single off of Esso’s 2014 self-titled debut album. “Coffee’s” minimalism contrasts with “Closer,” but is much more memorable as a result of its unique nature. Esso’s luscious vocals mixed with gorgeous synthesizers guarantee it to be stuck in your head after listening.
If you like Twenty One Pilots’ “Heathens,” then try Spoon’s “Inside Out.”
Similarities
Alt-rock and electronic instrumentation
memorable drum beats and expert use of synthesizers
What’s notable?
“Inside Out” was released as the second single from Spoon’s album “They Want My Soul.” The lead singer of Spoon, Britt Daniels, delivers a stellar and incredibly passionate vocal performance that drives the track. “Inside Out” is the much more exciting and complex counterpart to “Heathens” that must be heard as it has more attitude and is much more memorable.
If you like D.R.A.M.’s “Broccoli,” then try Anderson .Paak’s “Come Down.”
Similarities
Off-kilter instrumentation
Quirky lyrics
What’s notable?
This single from his 2016 album, “Malibu,” seamlessly blends funk and rap into an extremely catchy song. .Paak’s gravelly, yet smooth voice along with the choral feature in the refrain gets heads bobbing and feet tapping instantly. .Paak’s bravado and attitude surpasses that of D.R.A.M.’s, but both songs masterfully generate good vibes and positivity that are much needed within modern society.
If you like Justin Timerlake’s “Can’t Stop the Feeling,” then try Glass Animals’ “Youth.”
Similarities
Optimistic tone
High pitched vocals
Fun and interesting electronics
What’s the song about?
“Youth” by Glass Animals was released as the second single from the band’s 2016 album “How to be a Human Being.” The song utilizes electronics blended with higher-pitched vocals to create a soaring and densely layered track. “Youth” is exciting, unpredictable, and memorable as it evokes waves of happiness and emotion similar to those of “Can’t Stop the Feeling.”
If you like Rae Sremmurd’s “Black Beatles,” then try KAYTRANADA’s “Glowed Up.”
Similarities
Catchy hook
Up-beat instrumental
Smooth vocals
What’s the song about?
KAYTRANADA’s song “Glowed Up” featuring Anderson .Paak contains an infectious hook and experimental instrumentation that make it a more memorable counterpart to “Black Beatles.” “Glowed Up” was featured on KAYTRANADA’s 2016 debut “99.9%.” The track’s strength comes from the smooth vocals, pounding bass, and interesting production along with the extended jazz-influenced outro.