If you’re a fan of the eclectic and indie pop sounds of Rostam Batmanglij, formerly of Vampire Weekend, you’re in for a treat. His unique blend of baroque pop, indie rock, and electronic music has inspired many artists. Here are 13 bands and artists that capture a similar vibe.
1. Ra Ra Riot
Ra Ra Riot combines indie rock with orchestral elements, much like Rostam. Their album The Rhumb Line features hits like “Dying is Fine” and “Can You Tell.”
2. Dirty Projectors
Dirty Projectors are known for their experimental rock and intricate harmonies. Check out their album Bitte Orca, which includes the popular songs “Stillness is the Move” and “Cannibal Resource.”
3. Grizzly Bear
Grizzly Bear’s music is a blend of indie rock and psychedelic pop. Their album Veckatimest features standout tracks like “Two Weeks” and “While You Wait for the Others.”
4. Sufjan Stevens
Sufjan Stevens is known for his lush orchestration and introspective lyrics. Albums like Illinois and Carrie & Lowell have received critical acclaim, featuring songs such as “Chicago” and “Should Have Known Better.”
5. Andrew Bird
Andrew Bird’s music often features intricate violin work and whistling. His album Armchair Apocrypha includes tracks like “Imitosis” and “Plasticities.”
6. The Shins
The Shins are known for their catchy indie pop melodies and introspective lyrics. Their album Wincing the Night Away includes popular songs like “Phantom Limb” and “Australia.”
7. Fleet Foxes
Fleet Foxes create harmonious indie folk music with rich vocal layers. Their self-titled debut album features hits like “White Winter Hymnal” and “Ragged Wood.”
8. Local Natives
Local Natives blend indie rock with lush harmonies and intricate rhythms. Their album Gorilla Manor includes songs such as “Airplanes” and “Wide Eyes.”
9. Beirut
Beirut’s music combines indie rock with world music influences, particularly Balkan folk. Albums like The Flying Club Cup feature tracks such as “Nantes” and “A Sunday Smile.”
10. Vampire Weekend
It would be remiss not to mention Vampire Weekend, the band where Rostam first made his mark. Albums like Contra and Modern Vampires of the City include hits like “Horchata” and “Diane Young.”
11. Arcade Fire
Arcade Fire’s music is known for its grand, orchestral indie rock sound. Their album Funeral features popular songs like “Wake Up” and “Rebellion (Lies).”
12. The National
The National’s music is characterized by brooding lyrics and rich instrumentation. Albums like Boxer and High Violet include tracks such as “Fake Empire” and “Bloodbuzz Ohio.”
13. Bon Iver
Bon Iver blends indie folk with electronic elements, creating a hauntingly beautiful sound. Their album For Emma, Forever Ago includes the well-known song “Skinny Love.”
Explore these artists and expand your musical horizons. Each one brings a unique twist to the indie pop and rock genres, much like Rostam Batmanglij.
