Chillwave is a genre that has captivated listeners with its dreamy, nostalgic soundscapes and ethereal vibes. If you’re a fan of Neon Indian, you’ll love exploring these 18 bands and artists that offer similar auditory experiences. Dive into this curated list and discover new favorites that will transport you to another realm.
1. Toro y Moi
Toro y Moi, the project of Chaz Bear, is a cornerstone of the chillwave genre. With albums like Causers of This and Anything in Return, Toro y Moi blends smooth vocals with lush electronic production. Popular tracks include “So Many Details” and “Blessa.”
2. Washed Out
Washed Out, the brainchild of Ernest Greene, is known for its hazy, lo-fi sound. The album Within and Without features hits like “Amor Fati” and “Eyes Be Closed.” Their music is perfect for a laid-back, dreamy listening experience.
3. Small Black
Small Black combines synth-pop and chillwave elements to create a unique sound. Their album Limits of Desire includes standout tracks like “No Stranger” and “Breathless.” The band’s music often explores themes of nostalgia and longing.
4. Com Truise
Com Truise, also known as Seth Haley, specializes in retro-futuristic sounds. Albums like Galactic Melt and Iteration are filled with synth-heavy tracks like “Brokendate” and “Propagation.” His music is a blend of chillwave and synthwave.
5. Memory Tapes
Memory Tapes, the solo project of Dayve Hawk, offers a mix of electronic and indie sounds. The album Seek Magic features tracks like “Bicycle” and “Green Knight.” His music is both introspective and danceable.
6. Teen Daze
Teen Daze, created by Jamison Isaak, is known for its ambient and chillwave vibes. Albums like All of Us, Together and Themes for Dying Earth include tracks such as “Brooklyn Sunburn” and “Cycle.” His music is perfect for relaxation and reflection.
7. Blackbird Blackbird
Blackbird Blackbird, the alias of Mikey Maramag, combines dreamy pop with electronic elements. The album Summer Heart includes hits like “Pure” and “Hawaii.” His music is often characterized by its lush, tropical feel.
8. Craft Spells
Craft Spells, led by Justin Vallesteros, offers a blend of indie pop and chillwave. The album Idle Labor features tracks like “After the Moment” and “Party Talk.” Their music is perfect for fans of jangly guitars and dreamy melodies.
9. MillionYoung
MillionYoung, the project of Mike Diaz, mixes chillwave with electronic pop. Albums like Replicants and Amanecer include tracks such as “Cynthia” and “Sentimental.” His music is both upbeat and introspective.
10. Wild Nothing
Wild Nothing, created by Jack Tatum, is known for its dreamy indie pop sound. The album Gemini features popular tracks like “Chinatown” and “Summer Holiday.” Their music often explores themes of youth and nostalgia.
11. M83
M83, led by Anthony Gonzalez, blends shoegaze, synth-pop, and chillwave elements. The album Hurry Up, We’re Dreaming includes hits like “Midnight City” and “Wait.” Their music is known for its grand, cinematic quality.
12. Air France
Air France, a Swedish duo, creates music that blends chillwave with Balearic beats. The EP No Way Down features tracks like “Collapsing at Your Doorstep” and “June Evenings.” Their music is perfect for a dreamy, beachside vibe.
13. Neon Trees
Neon Trees combines elements of new wave and chillwave to create infectious pop tunes. The album Habits includes hits like “Animal” and “1983.” Their energetic sound is perfect for fans of catchy, danceable music.
14. Brothertiger
Brothertiger, the project of John Jagos, offers a smooth blend of chillwave and synth-pop. Albums like Golden Years and Out of Touch feature tracks such as “Lovers” and “Wake.” His music is known for its soothing, melodic quality.
15. Work Drugs
Work Drugs, a Philadelphia-based duo, creates music that blends chillwave with yacht rock. The album Delta includes tracks like “Rad Racer” and “License to Drive.” Their music is perfect for a laid-back, summery vibe.
16. Summer Heart
Summer Heart, the project of David Alexander, specializes in dreamy, lo-fi pop. The album About a Feeling features tracks such as “I Wanna Go” and “A Million Times.” His music is characterized by its nostalgic, sun-soaked sound.
17. Twin Shadow
Twin Shadow, led by George Lewis Jr., blends chillwave with new wave and indie rock. The album Forget includes hits like “Castles in the Snow” and “Slow.” His music often explores themes of love and loss.
18. Yumi Zouma
Yumi Zouma, a New Zealand band, offers a mix of chillwave and dream pop. The album Yoncalla features tracks like “Barricade (Matter of Fact)” and “Keep It Close to Me.” Their music is known for its breezy, ethereal quality.
Exploring these artists will surely expand your chillwave horizons and introduce you to a world of dreamy, nostalgic sounds. Happy listening!
