Words: Phoebe Close

This is the first of what will hopefully be a recurring segment on TFGL, keeping you in the know of all the best new indie and alternative singles, EPs, and albums out in February. Make sure to let us know if you listen and love any of this new music! 

Mitski – Laurel Hell

This is the much awaited new album from Mitski, dropped at the beginning of February. It delivers exactly what Mitski fans were hoping for, including amazing but sad lyricism and interesting arrangements. This album in particular provides a throwback, including lots of 80s references. Highlights include the singles “The Only Heartbreaker” and “Working for the Knife” and album track gems like “Love Me More” and “That’s Our Lamp”. I think this is a great introduction album to Mitski if you weren’t a fan beforehand; get to know her ahead of her support slot for Harry on Love On Tour.

Arlo Parks – Softly

Arguably no one had a better 2021 than Arlo parks, with her debut album “Collapsed in Sunbeams” winning the Mercury Award for best album and her picking up best new artist at the Brit awards. “Softly” is Parks’ first release since her debut, and with a sunny sound and poetic lyrics, it does not disappoint.

Alt-J – The Dream

I feel like I have grown up with Alt-J with their classic tracks like “Breezeblocks” and “Left Hand Free” being some of the key songs of my childhood and school years. (Side note: the use of “Left Hand Free” in Avengers Civil War is one of the best uses of music in a movie). However, in past years Alt-J have been relatively quiet, and they have not released a new album since 2018. Their new album “The Dream” has widely been praised for its emotional and truthful lyrics. Highlight songs include “The Actor” and “Loosing My Mind”. 

Caroline Polachek – Billions

Caroline Polachek is another indie favourite and if your TikTok FYP is anything like mine, you will have heard her track “So hot you’re hurting my feelings”. Her new song “Billions” is a really interesting listen, focusing on exploring the use of different vocal effects. It is similar to her previous songs but also hints at something new, making me so excited for the next album which is hopefully coming this year. 

Big Thief – Dragon New Warm Mountain I Believe In You

Big Thief are some of the most prolific producers of music at the moment, having released not one but two albums in 2019 and also having solo projects on the side. Their new album is no exception with a 20 song track list. Many of these tracks were released over the last few months and I have loved each one. My current favourites are “Sparrow” and “Time escaping”. If you have not listened to Big Thief before I would really recommend, and I would say give yourself the time to listen, and then relisten – they create music that gets better and better as you become familiar!