More Songs from Houston-Based Punk and Indie Bands

This playlist is a continuation of another compilation I made of my favorite songs from the Houston-based bands that keep the local scene alive and interesting. There are so many great bands in this city, just writing about ten wasn’t enough! I’ve been lucky enough to see a lot of these bands live and even talk to some of them, and I’ve been amazed by the sense of community that can be felt in every venue and house show.

There’s a lot of variation in the sound of these bands, but I feel that they all individually reflect Houston’s vibrant energy and unique culture all in their own way.

1. “Urban Cowboy” by Mexican Coke

Mexican Coke is definitely one of the most popular hardcore bands from Houston, and for good reason. “Urban Cowboy” is one of my favorite songs of theirs because it deals with topics like corruption and police brutality, topics that a lot of artists don’t acknowledge so straightforwardly.

2. “Great Day” by J.Dahlia

“Great Day” is J.Dahlia’s most recent single. When I first heard this song, the first thing I fell in love with was the way the vocalist’s sustained singing added a mournful melody to the song. When comparing this song to the rest of the band’s discography, you can really feel their growth as this song is a mixture of the band’s best traits: pumping drums, somber vocals, and fun riffs.

3. “L.O.F.” by DWNKILL

What stands out most to me about “L.O.F” by DWNKILL is the variation in vocals. It shows off amazing heavy metal vocal techniques, ranging from rough growls to loud screeches. These great vocals are paired with pounding drums and solid riffs that give the song an extra punch.

4. “DEADENDS” by JAID

“DEADENDS” by JAID personifies the feeling of spiraling as the tempo of the song shifts from slow and dreamy to a faster, more panicked pace. The vocals accompanying this tempo also raise in volume and strain as the beat picks up, creating a song that really tells a story.

5. “Hit Me In The Brain” by Lakefront Manor

“Hit Me In The Brain” by Lakefront Manor is great because it reminds me of a lot of DIY punk bands from the 70s. The rhythm section of this song is particularly amazing, from the punchy drums to the catchy bass line.

6. “Submarine” by Velveteen Echo

“Submarine” by Velveteen Echo is heartbreaking in a subdued way. Everything about this song feels soft, from the dreamy vocals to the muted drums. Overall, it makes the song feel extra comforting.

7. “Ponte Vendre” by Astragal

It was hard choosing just one song from Astragal’s discography! Ponte Vendra stood out in particular for me though because of the beautiful guitar melody. The bass compliments it perfectly, giving the airy plucking of the guitar strings a strong backbone.

8. “Khaadaan” by Ruiners

“Khandaan” by Ruiners is probably the song on this list that I’ve had saved for the longest. The subject of it is so personal and real as it deals with trying to move past a tumultuous relationship with one’s family. The bridge of this song is especially sweet as the singer repeats “I’ll be there for you” after describing his disagreements with his family.

9. “No Idea” by Social Static

“No Idea” by Social Static is a hardcore punk song whose grainy production quality works to its favor. The heavily distorted bass, fast-paced drums, and muffled vocals all pair together perfectly to create an energetic song with a great breakdown.

10. “She’s So Heavy” by Mud Dauber & Izabellizima

One of the things I love most about “She’s So Heavy” by Mud Dauber & Izabellizima is the way the male and female vocals mix to create a dynamic sound. The guitar also really stands out on this song as it has lots of fuzz and reverb on it, which compliments the song overall.