Indie rock has been a vibrant and evolving musical genre since its inception in the 1980s. It has undergone various transformations, beginning with early pioneers like R.E.M. and The Smiths, evolving through to the post-punk revival witnessed in the 2000s with the emergence of bands such as The Killers and Arctic Monkeys. As the genre develops, artists are increasingly experimenting with innovative songwriting techniques, resulting in a rich tapestry of sub-genres that all fall under the indie rock umbrella.
Within this dynamic genre, numerous bands stand out as frontrunners, capturing the zeitgeist as we move through 2025. From thrilling festival headliners to those that seem to have emerged from obscurity into the spotlight, here are ten bands that indie rock enthusiasts should closely follow as they unveil new music and performances this year.
10 Japanese Breakfast
Reinventing the Melancholic Side of Indie Rock
After releasing their fourth album, which marks their first professionally recorded studio project, Japanese Breakfast is clearly poised to enter a thrilling new phase. The album, titled For Melancholy Brunettes (& Sad Women), showcases frontwoman Michelle Zauner’s introspective lyrics, weaving a narrative of deep emotional resonance. While the band previously gained recognition for their upbeat sound, this latest effort signifies their evolution beyond conventional boundaries.
Complementing the album launch, the band is set to embark on an extensive headlining tour across Europe, the UK, and the US, kicking off with a highly anticipated performance at the Coachella Music and Arts Festival. Their reputation for high-energy and visually captivating performances will undoubtedly draw millions of eyes worldwide.
9 Mt. Joy
Indie Rock with a Hint of Folk
This summer, the indie-rock ensemble Mt. Joy has an exciting schedule lined up, which includes major festival appearances and performances at their biggest venues yet. Their unique sound, combined with out-of-the-ordinary performance energy, is sure to elevate their status in the music scene. Notable upcoming shows include Governor’s Ball, Bonnaroo, and a headline event at the iconic Red Rocks Amphitheater.
The band’s recent single from their upcoming album, Hope We Have Fun, has sparked enthusiasm among fans eager for what lies ahead. In a discussion with Billboard, lead vocalist Matt Quinn revealed insights into their latest creation.
The song is a celebration of the make-it-or-break-it energy the band experienced grinding it out on the road and the surprising paradigm shifts that followed their crossover success.
8 Royel Otis
The Australian Duo Taking Over the Scene
Since their rapid rise to prominence a few years back, the Australian duo Royel Otis has been continuously ascending in the music industry. They are featured on major festival lineups globally, including Glastonbury and the Reading & Leeds festivals. Additionally, they are set to share the stage with Halsey for select dates on her upcoming tour.
Royel Otis stands out in the crowded indie rock landscape with their unique sound and distinctive stage presence. Critics have lauded their captivating renditions of classics like “Linger”by The Cranberries and “Murder on the Dancefloor”by Sophie Ellis-Bextor. With their recent social media blackout, they appear to be hinting at a new musical direction, making them a duo to keep your eyes on.
7 The Last Dinner Party
An Eclectic British Rock Group
Known for their theatrical performances and striking visuals, The Last Dinner Party demands attention. This British indie rock band, comprising both female and non-binary artists, actively champions social causes through their music. Their recent album, Prelude to Ecstasy, features the catchy and whimsical track “Nothing Matters,”which helped them amass a dedicated fan base online.
Since releasing their debut album, the band has hinted at a forthcoming record, while they also plan to hit the road with a European tour and an opening slot for Olivia Rodrigo this summer, positioning them as a group to watch.
6 Flipturn
Florida’s Finest Indie Rock Creation
After the launch of their sophomore album, burnout days, Flipturn has secured slots at prestigious festivals like Bonnaroo and Lollapalooza. As they embark on an extensive US tour, their momentum shows no signs of waning. Their Spring Tour saw many dates sell out rapidly, highlighting the high demand for their unique sound, which draws influences from bands like Radiohead and Phoenix. Flipturn’s music is a captivating fusion that evokes both dance and introspection.
Their vibrant stage presence is guaranteed to captivate audiences, ensuring that their performances are unforgettable experiences. Anyone with an opportunity to see Flipturn live should not miss it, as they are one of the most promising acts in the indie rock scene.
5 The Marías
An Entrancing, Soulful Band
With a mesmerizing blend of English and Spanish lyrical content, The Marías have captivated audiences with their ethereal sound. Following the successful release of their album Submarine, which featured the viral hit “No One Noticed,”the band has launched two new singles this year, “Back To Me”and its B-side, “Nobody New.”These tracks delve into the complexities of emotional breakups, ushering in what seems to be a new chapter for the band just in time for a busy summer schedule.
The Marías are set to grace the stage at Coachella for a second time, with additional appearances planned at major festivals like Hinterland and Lollapalooza. This is just the beginning of what they have in store, promising exciting developments in the near future.
4 Inhaler
The Internet’s Favorite Irish Quartet
With the recent release of their third album, Open Wide, Inhaler is making significant waves in the indie rock world. Fans adore their vibrant performances, which often include exhilarating interactions with the audience and striking guitar solos.
Their latest project sees the band exploring a more pop-oriented sound while still retaining their alt-rock influences. In a feature with Variety, lead vocalist Elijah Hewson stated,
We’ve always sort of felt like a pop band because we love the Beatles and Nirvana’s “Nevermind” and all those albums. Just because something has guitars over it, I don’t think that excludes it from being pop.
As the band gears up for a year filled with touring, it’s clear they are on the cusp of even greater accomplishments, making it essential to catch them live.
3 The Backseat Lovers
Reaching for the Roots of Indie Rock
The Salt Lake City-based band The Backseat Lovers is revitalizing classic indie rock with their melodic guitar riffs and driving drum patterns. Teasing new music ahead of their anticipated record, following their successful release Waiting to Spill, they are mainly remembered for their debut album, When We Were Friends, that featured timeless tracks such as “Kilby Girl,”along with “Pool House”and “Maple Syrup.”
With a European and UK tour on the horizon and festival slots at Shakey Knees in Atlanta and Soundside Music Festival in Connecticut, The Backseat Lovers are set to deliver a nostalgic yet refreshing experience that traditional indie rock fans will appreciate.
2 Glass Animals
The Band on a “Tour of Earth”
After an eventful year that featured extensive touring and the launch of their latest album, I Love You So F***ing Much, Glass Animals have announced additional leg of their “Tour Of Earth.”Following a remarkable tour that included headlining sold-out shows at Madison Square Garden and debuting in India at Lollapalooza, they show no signs of slowing down.
With plans to headline prestigious summer festivals such as Bonnaroo and NYC’s The Governor’s Ball, their electrifying performances have made them one of the most sought-after bands today. The excitement surrounding Glass Animals is palpable, and anticipation will surely mount as they continue their trajectory into the future.
1 Fontaines D.C.
An Experimental Sensation
Fontaines D.C. is unlike any other band. With two Grammy nominations recently under their belt and an action-packed summer ahead, this Irish band is capturing the music scene’s attention. Their newest album, Romance, marks a departure from their typical post-punk style toward a more experimental sound. The standout track “Starburster”not only earned them a Grammy nod but also widespread acclaim.
The band’s upcoming North American and European tours promise appearances at some of the largest venues, including Finsbury Park in London and Wythenshawe Park in Manchester. Their rise this year is one that is not to be missed.