If you’re a fan of the dreamy, psychedelic pop sounds of Youth Lagoon, you’re in for a treat. Below, we’ve compiled a list of 18 bands and artists that capture a similar ethereal vibe. Whether you’re new to the genre or looking to expand your playlist, these recommendations are sure to hit the right notes.
1. Beach House
Beach House is known for their lush, atmospheric soundscapes and haunting melodies. Their albums Teen Dream and Bloom are particularly celebrated, featuring standout tracks like “Zebra” and “Myth.”
2. Washed Out
Washed Out, the moniker of Ernest Greene, is synonymous with chillwave and lo-fi pop. His debut album Within and Without includes the hit single “Eyes Be Closed,” which exemplifies his dreamy sound.
3. Toro y Moi
Toro y Moi blends elements of chillwave, synth-pop, and indie rock to create a unique auditory experience. Albums like Anything in Return and Boo Boo feature popular tracks such as “So Many Details” and “Girl Like You.”
4. M83
M83 is a French electronic band known for their grand, cinematic sound. Their album Hurry Up, We’re Dreaming includes the widely acclaimed track “Midnight City,” a staple in the dream pop genre.
5. Neon Indian
Neon Indian, led by Alan Palomo, is a key player in the chillwave movement. Albums like Era Extraña and VEGA INTL. Night School feature tracks such as “Polish Girl” and “Annie.”
6. Tame Impala
Tame Impala, the project of Kevin Parker, merges psychedelic rock with pop sensibilities. Their albums Lonerism and Currents include hits like “Elephant” and “The Less I Know The Better.”
7. Wild Nothing
Wild Nothing, the brainchild of Jack Tatum, delivers dreamy, nostalgic indie pop. Albums like Gemini and Nocturne feature beloved tracks such as “Chinatown” and “Shadow.”
8. Grizzly Bear
Grizzly Bear combines intricate harmonies with lush instrumentation. Their album Veckatimest includes the well-known song “Two Weeks,” a must-listen for any dream pop enthusiast.
9. Real Estate
Real Estate is known for their jangly guitars and relaxed, sun-soaked melodies. Albums like Days and Atlas feature tracks such as “It’s Real” and “Talking Backwards.”
10. The Radio Dept.
The Radio Dept. hails from Sweden and offers a blend of dream pop and shoegaze. Their album Clinging to a Scheme includes standout tracks like “Heaven’s on Fire” and “David.”
11. Mac DeMarco
Mac DeMarco’s laid-back, lo-fi sound has garnered a dedicated following. His albums 2 and Salad Days feature popular songs such as “Ode to Viceroy” and “Chamber of Reflection.”
12. DIIV
DIIV, led by Zachary Cole Smith, offers a hypnotic blend of indie rock and dream pop. Their albums Oshin and Is the Is Are include tracks like “Doused” and “Under the Sun.”
13. Craft Spells
Craft Spells, fronted by Justin Vallesteros, delivers jangly, melancholic dream pop. Their debut album Idle Labor features beloved tracks such as “After the Moment” and “Party Talk.”
14. Cigarettes After Sex
Cigarettes After Sex is known for their slow, sensual soundscapes. Their self-titled debut album includes the hauntingly beautiful track “Nothing’s Gonna Hurt You Baby.”
15. Porches
Porches, the project of Aaron Maine, combines synth-pop with heartfelt lyrics. Albums like Pool and The House feature tracks such as “Be Apart” and “Find Me.”
16. Lower Dens
Lower Dens offers a mix of dream pop and indie rock, led by Jana Hunter’s distinctive vocals. Their album Twin-Hand Movement includes standout tracks like “I Get Nervous” and “Hospice Gates.”
17. Alvvays
Alvvays delivers catchy, melancholic indie pop with a dreamy twist. Their self-titled debut album features popular songs such as “Archie, Marry Me” and “Adult Diversion.”
18. Wild Nothing
Wild Nothing, the brainchild of Jack Tatum, delivers dreamy, nostalgic indie pop. Albums like Gemini and Nocturne feature beloved tracks such as “Chinatown” and “Shadow.”
Explore these artists, and you’re bound to find new favorites that capture the same magic as Youth Lagoon. Happy listening!
