Cougar Microbes Selects Indie/Rock

Cougar Microbes Selects: Indie/Rock February 2024

A selection of new and/or relevant indie and rock-leaning tracks that have recently left an impression on us. For the full playlist click here.


Bosola – “Truth Man”

Bosola‘s track, “Truth Man,” takes us down memory lane to the heydays of ’90s alternative rock. The music’s like a wild ride, with chords that tug at your heartstrings and a bass line that’s pure magic. The lyrics tackle life’s complexities with the grace of a tightrope walker, touching on themes of truth and deception. While Bosola has already made waves in Tyneside and beyond, adding new bandmates Austin and Rob infuses the track with fresh energy thanks to some serious riffage and nifty drum work. With catchy choruses and cool guitar riffs, “Truth Man” embodies everything I love about British alternative music—raw, real, and utterly addictive.


Marr Not Meeger – “Yellow Car”

In Marr Not Meeger‘s debut single “Yellow Car,” emotions run deep with raw honesty. With minimal instrumental backing—a slightly distorted guitar—the vocals shine brightly, drawing listeners in with a blend of self-assurance and vulnerability. Recorded in Paris, the song captures the city’s romantic vibe. Marr Not Meeger‘s lyrics delve into the ups and downs of relationships, hitting home with anyone who’s ever questioned their actions in love or even for love. Like a late-night stroll through a bustling metropolis, “Yellow Car” invites us to reflect on our actions and experiences, while never quite letting our guard down.


Repeat – “You Would Know”

I don’t quite understand Sweden‘s knack for birthing incredible bands, yet Repeat emerges as the latest gem from those Nordic shores. Their track, You Would Know, is a thrill ride you won’t want to miss. While its structure on the surface seems straightforward, it cunningly weaves unexpected twists and turns that keep you captivated. Torbjörn Hallberg‘s vocals soar over Mattias Belin‘s booming bass and Johan Holmberg‘s thunderous drums, crafting an irresistible tension. With walls of abrasive guitars and lyrics that etch into your mind, You Would Know is as infectious as it is unapologetic and certainly worthy of, pun intended, repeat listens.


The Sleepy Haunts – “Why Do I Feel This Way?”

Amid pop-punk’s resurgence, The Sleepy Haunts drop a melodic bombshell with “Why Do I Feel This Way?” This track is the epitome of cool, serving as an anthem for anyone grappling with heartache. Gillian McMahon‘s vocals radiate like a burst of sunlight over infectious guitar riffs, inviting even the tone-deaf to join the sing-along. Complexity takes a backseat as relatable struggles morph into a head-bopping extravaganza. Drawing from influences like Beach Bunny and Paramore, The Sleepy Haunts carve out a niche in the indie alt-rock world with their unique “Bubble Grunge” sound.


C.B. Carlyle & The Desert Angel – “The Howling


My imagination took me directly to the sweltering heat of Florida’s swamps when I first heard the storm C.B. Carlyle & The Desert Angels conjure their latest tune. With “The Howling.” This two-piece ensemble, guided by Blair Carlyle‘s haunting vocals and Antonio Reyes‘ imposing drums, deliver an almighty racket that fuses Nick Cave-esque intensity with a bluesy allure.

Lyrics dripping with debauchery and riffs striking like bolts of lightning, “The Howling” is a captivating blend of darkness and dynamism. It grips you like quicksand, drawing you into its murky depths with each haunting howl and electrifying riff.