In the modern music scene, with millions of songs constantly at your fingertips, why does it still feel impossible to find something new and exciting? If your Spotify playlist needs an update, these next 10 hidden gems will keep you in the know.

10. DREAMERS

Coming in at #10, with alternative music that feels like a hazy daydream, is the DREAMERS. This band is known for its unique way of blending alt-rock with psychedelic undertones, giving each song an energy that feels otherworldly in its own way. Their lyrics capture a sense of escapism that really makes you lose yourself in the rhythm. No matter what kind of mood you’re in, you’ll always find the DREAMERS to deliver.

Must-Listens:

-Someway, Somehow (2019)

-Dizzy (2019)

-Misfits T-Shirt (2022)

9. Royal Blood

Royal Blood is an absolute essential band to listen to for any major fan of the hard rock genre. Their own spin on the genre’s defining characteristics, which have been seen as rigid rules since its rise to popularity in the mid-1960s, makes their choice of a bass guitar for regular riffs, rather than an electric guitar, even stranger. At first, the very notion of swapping these two instruments seems absurd, but if you give it a chance, you’ll find the distinctly powerful sound of the bass is addictive.

Must-Listens:

-Trouble’s Coming (2021)

-Mad Visions (2021)

-Typhoons (2021)

8. Red Leather

While you might not have heard his music, his original outfit makes him instantly recognizable with his large red hat adorned with crimson tassels and, of course, his signature red leather jacket, from which he takes his name. But Red Leather is more than just a striking image, he’s a singer with a voice that is undeniably captivating, carrying a gruff intensity and calming smoothness. His music is raw, gritty, and rebellious, with an ample amount of theatrical flair to each track. Whether you prefer haunting melodies or brooding verses, each of his performances demands your attention. 

Must-Listens:

-SINS (2023)

-THE ONLY TIME IT RAINS IN HOLLYWOOD (2023)

-DEATHWISH (2023)

7. Saint Motel

With their music often being confused with theatrical tracks for their grandiose performances and mesmerizing rhythms, Saint Motel’s songs are often described as feeling straight out of a movie. They have an unmatched ability to create captivating riffs, all being clearly recognizable due to their eccentric style, while still being distinctly different from one another. If you like music that won’t get out of your head, then be sure to give their music a listen, and don’t blame me when you find yourself humming and tapping along within days.

Must-Listens:

-A Good Song Never Dies (2021)

-Snake Charmer (2021)

-Van Horn (2021)

6. Roe Kapara

It’s hard not to like a song that understands your struggles, but a lot of the points ultimately feel undermined when they come from millionaire singers writing songs in their third mansion about how tough their life is. Hearing a down-to-earth artist who feels like he truly understands the struggle of the average person is a shockingly rare thing in the current musical scene, and the reason why Roe Kapara is such a welcome addition to this list. His songs discuss fears of war breaking out, the unhealthy ways we cope with stress, and so many other pressing issues that feel more important with each passing day. It’s easy to get caught up in the news, but next time you’re feeling overwhelmed, just throw on one of Roe’s songs and you’ll feel seen.

Must-Listens:

-Everyone’s Dying (2023)

-The Dead Come Talking (2024)

-Hate Myself (2024)

5. Tom Cardy

Ever since Bo Burnham has gone silent, the musical comedy scene has been noticeably vacant, but in the last few years one man has begun to make a name for himself by filling that void. Not only are all of his songs catchy, each track will have you laughing out loud with his absurdist humor and witty lyrics. If you ever find yourself looking for something funny to brighten your day, Tom Cardy never fails to deliver a good laugh.

Must-Listens:

-Red Flags (2022)

-Perception Check (2023)

-Mixed Messages (2021)

4. Gogol Bordello

What does it take to pioneer an entirely new genre? Ask the Eastern-European singer Gogol Bordello, who founded his own original genre: “Gypsy Punk.” His music was so vastly different from most other artists that an entirely new category had to be made for it. He combines punk sounds with an almost polka-esque vibe, using a violin and an accordion in combination with more traditional instruments, all while maintaining punk’s rebellious lyricism. If that isn’t original enough, try the combination of up to 5 languages in some of his songs, with the majority of his music in English, with small refrains in Ukrainian, Russian, Romani, and even Spanish. Now is the perfect time to dive into his music, especially with the recent release of Creature Commandos by James Gunn, featuring five of the songs from Gogol Bordello’s discography. He is a golden opportunity for anyone wishing to experiment with exotic music.

Must-Listens:

-Wonderlust King (2007)

-American Wedding (2007)

-Supertheory of Supereverything (2007)

3. I Don’t Know How But They Found Me

iDKHOW (short for I Don’t Know How But They Found Me) is a band that exists in its own bizarre limbo between past and present. Their music seamlessly replicates the nostalgic synth-driven sounds of the ‘80s New Wave movement while also utilizing modern production techniques, creating music that sounds both familiar and refreshingly original. This is especially appreciated in an age where many argue that music all sounds the same. With a playful yet simultaneously dark and sophisticated aesthetic, iDKHOW offers more than just music, incorporating their own cryptic story details throughout their songs for fans to piece together. iDKHOW always ensures that their next performance is going to be unforgettable, thanks in no small part to their charismatic star, Dallon Weekes, who never fails to make each show a spectacle.

Must-Listens:

-Choke (2018)

-Nobody Likes The Opening Band (2017)

-MAD IQs (2020)

2. Rare Americans

While some artists weave small self-contained stories into their songs, the Rare Americans elevate musical storytelling to a whole new level. Each of their songs is treated like its own mini-movie, not just through their vivid lyricism, but also through their animated music videos that bring these tales to life. Through their signature characters, the Rare Americans tackle heavy societal issues like addiction and corporate greed, while also exploring more grounded themes like love and pain. With the socially conscious genre growing by the day, it’s hard to stand out, but the amount of care and love that’s put into each song is unquestionable and truly lets them rise above the rest. Once you start listening, you can’t help but be drawn into the deep, interconnected world they have carefully crafted.

Must-Listens:

-Brittle Bones Nicky (2021)

-Baggage (2022)

-Hullabaloo (2021)

1. The Wrecks

The decision wasn’t easy, but at the top sits The Wrecks, who have more than earned their spot at #1 on this list. Their songs cover such a wide range of music that it’s impossible not to like them, having songs in the rock, pop, and even lo-fi genres, with even more in their respective subcategories. Every song is an absolute emotional gut punch, hitting you exactly where they intended. From upbeat jams and clever lyrics to somber masterpieces with lines that’ll leave you with an existential crisis, The Wrecks have a song for every mood. Throughout their years of musical work, they’ve always found a way of relating to the listener with every song, and rightfully earned them a cult following. Whether you’re eating an entire tub of ice cream after a bad break-up or just going through your day-to-day I can guarantee you’ll find a song by The Wrecks that’ll hit you in the feels.

Must-Listens:

-Favorite Liar (2016)

-I Didn’t Use To (2025)

-Where Are You Now? (2022)

In a world where millions of songs are always a click away, it’s easy to feel like nothing stands out anymore, but that’s just plain wrong. There’s still so much magic to be found. Music is one of the most powerful ways of expressing oneself, not only for the artist, but also for the listener. Life can be overwhelming at times and music provides a positive outlet for your emotions. Music is an avenue to tell beautiful stories that have never been told, leave you a sobbing mess on the couch, and speak out against injustice. No matter who you are, where you’re from, or what you’re going through, there’s something on this list to make your day a little brighter.