The Independent

Early-evening dance party Earlybirds Club brings the club experience to a more civilized hour (6-10pm) with DJs spinning everything from 80s new wave to 90s hip-hop and early 2000s pop. Perfect for those with responsibilities the next morning who still want to dance like they don't, this is guilt-free nostalgia for adults with shit to do.

TikTok poetry sensation Whitney Hanson brings her viral spoken word to life in an intimate live poetry and music tour. Known for her deeply felt explorations of heartbreak and healing, Hanson combines confessional verse with stripped-down musical accompaniment for a vulnerable, cathartic experience.

Danish electro-pop maven MØ (Karen Marie Ørsted) brings her 2025 album 'Plæygirl' to life with infectious energy and fearless stage presence. Known for her massive collaboration 'Lean On' with Major Lazer, MØ's solo work showcases bold pop experimentalism and the kind of unfiltered charisma that makes festival crowds lose their minds.

Canadian electro-folk duo Moontricks blend organic instrumentation with electronic beats for a genre-defying live experience. Their performances feature live guitar, banjo, and vocals layered over bass-heavy production, creating a danceable fusion that bridges jamband energy with underground electronic vibes.

Bay Area rapper Frak presents a one-of-a-kind mixtape release party where artists trade bars in 4-bar volleys like a lyrical chess match. Featuring bay legends Nef the Pharaoh, Blimes & Gab, Stunnaman02, plus a four square court on stage, off-the-cuff freestyles from crowd suggestions, and comedic bits throughout—this isn't your typical rap show, it's an interactive celebration of Bay Area hip hop culture.

A showcase of SF's vibrant underground electronic scene featuring resident DJs Baghead, Snake Tits, DISCNOGIRL, and DJ JUANNY spinning everything from house to techno. This monthly celebration of local talent brings together the city's best selectors for a night of diverse, high-energy dance music without the pretension of touring headliners.

Singer-songwriter Ruston Kelly returns with his transformative album 'Pale, Through the Window,' released September 2025 on Rounder Records. Kelly's vulnerable country-folk showcases raw emotional honesty and poetic lyricism, with support from intimate act verygently creating an evening of cathartic storytelling.

Andy Frasco & The U.N. deliver the ultimate indie rock party with high-energy, big-vibes performances that turn concerts into cathartic celebrations. Known for relentless touring and marathon sets, Frasco's sweaty, joyous shows blend soul, funk, and rock into an unforgettable communal experience that leaves audiences exhausted and elated.

At just 18 years old, Bay Area-born guitarist Grace Bowers is redefining blues-rock with soulful six-string prowess that belies her age. After playing the 2025 Grammys and graduating high school, Bowers brings her award-winning guitar work and genre-blending band to her hometown for what promises to be a meteoric showcase.

An experience-driven dance party that seamlessly blends indie rock anthems with electronic dance music all night long. With amazing DJs, stage production, and an inclusive crowd that knows every word, Electric Feels creates the perfect environment where MGMT, LCD Soundsystem, and Daft Punk collide on the dancefloor.

Filipino-American bedroom pop artist Galdive crafts cozy R&B-tinged indie with lush production and intimate vocals perfect for late-night listening. His bread-and-butter love songs blend dreamy textures with vulnerable lyricism, creating a sonic safe space that feels like your favorite hoodie on a rainy day.

Indie rock veterans Clap Your Hands Say Yeah celebrate the 20th anniversary of their self-titled debut with an intimate Piano & Voice show featuring frontman Alec Ounsworth. After sold-out European dates, this stripped-down format reveals the emotional core of songs that defined mid-2000s indie, reimagined with stark, haunting vulnerability.

Nashville guitar slinger Daniel Donato brings his 'Cosmic Country' sound—a telepathic fusion of country, jam, and psychedelic rock—for a two-night 'Horizons Winter Tour' residency. Known for marathon Telecaster jams and covers spanning Grateful Dead to John Prine, Donato's live shows are spontaneous musical expeditions that push country music into uncharted territory.

Night two of Daniel Donato's Cosmic Country residency promises new improvisational journeys through country, rock, and everything between. Each performance is unique, with Donato's fretboard wizardry leading the band through telepathic communication that makes jambands and Nashville traditionalists both feel at home.

Grammy-winning saxophonist and producer Venna brings his groundbreaking fusion of jazz and hip hop to life, seamlessly blending melodic sax lines with UK drill and rap production. Having worked with Beyoncé, Burna Boy, and crafting viral collaborations, this young virtuoso is redefining what modern jazz can be for a new generation.

The greatest tribute night to the music that was never just a phase. Relive the 2000s emo and pop punk golden era with live bands performing covers of My Chemical Romance, Fall Out Boy, Paramore, and Dashboard Confessional while the crowd screams every lyric. Perfect for Valentine's Day heartbreak or celebrating with your scene kid crew.

French trio Odezenne from Bordeaux brings their kaleidoscopic sonic collages and fiercely independent DIY spirit to SF in a rare US appearance. Known for genre-fluid experimentation that blends rap, electronic, and alternative sounds into something utterly unique, this is essential viewing for fans who appreciate hip hop as art.

The Polish Ambassador (David Sugalski) brings his signature blend of world bass, Afro-Latin grooves, and environmental activism to The Independent. Founder of Jumpsuit Records and early progenitor of the permaculture action movement, his shows merge lush electronic production with acoustic instruments and a message of ecological consciousness that makes dancing feel like direct action.

Grammy-winning producer-turned-artist DENM delivers his genre-hopping sound from debut album 'Slum Beach Denny' with infectious hooks and coastal vibes. Having produced for major acts before stepping into the spotlight, his live shows blend indie pop sensibilities with surf rock energy and the polished songcraft of a behind-the-scenes master.

Puerto Rican singer-songwriter Jesse Baez crafts seductive Latin R&B that seamlessly blends English and Spanish lyrics over lush, contemporary production. With his smooth vocals and emotionally charged performances, he's carving out space as a bilingual voice for the new generation of alternative R&B lovers.

UK producer Fox Stevenson (Stanley Stevenson Byrne) delivers high-energy drum & bass while singing and playing guitar live—a rare triple threat in electronic music. Known for working with Monstercat and blending genres from dubstep to future bass, his performances showcase technical prowess and infectious melodies that make crowds bounce from first drop to last.

The mysterious ((( O ))) creates sonic landscapes that transport listeners through ambient textures, downtempo beats, and psychedelic explorations. Their immersive live performances turn The Independent into a transcendent space where electronic experimentation meets spiritual journey—perfect for those seeking music that challenges conventional structures.

Amsterdam electronic duo Weval celebrates the release of their 2025 album 'CHOROPHOBIA' with intricate live instrumentation and modular synthesis. Released on Ninja Tune's Technicolour imprint, their hypnotic blend of techno, ambient, and krautrock creates immersive soundscapes that transport crowds from introspective meditation to euphoric release.

Austin music legend Bob Schneider has won more than 59 Austin Music Awards including Best Songwriter and Best Male Vocals, making him one of Texas' most decorated artists. His genre-spanning catalog moves effortlessly from rock to country to indie pop, delivered with the charisma and wit of a natural performer who's honed his craft over decades.

Granada Hills four-piece Mexican Slum Rats create an overwhelming atmosphere of emotion with their garage-punk sound. Part of the new LA punk scene, they blend alternative rock with jazz fusion elements and punk energy, representing a fresh generation of California underground rock with authenticity and passion.

Korean-Canadian R&B artist JUNNY brings his Null Tour celebrating his latest album after the success of debut studio album blanc. Known for his silky vocals and genre-blending production that bridges Korean and Western R&B, JUNNY has carved out a unique space as a singer-songwriter who writes, produces, and performs with equal mastery.

Canadian-born, Austin-based rock duo Black Pistol Fire delivers maximum impact with minimal personnel. Kevin McKeown and Eric Owen create a wall of sound that defies their two-piece setup, blending garage rock grit with blues rock swagger for a sweaty, high-octane live experience that proves less is more.

Known as one half of Wild Belle, Natalie Bergman steps into the spotlight with her deeply personal gospel-soul album Mercy, created after losing her father and stepmother. Released on Jack White's Third Man Records, her spiritual journey through grief transforms into transcendent performances that blend classic gospel with contemporary soul.

Seattle rapper Grieves delivers deeply personal hip hop that blends melancholic production with poetic lyricism about depression, anxiety, and everyday struggles. Signed to Rhymesayers Entertainment alongside Atmosphere and Brother Ali, his confessional style and collaboration with producer Budo have made him a cult favorite for fans seeking substance over flash.

Barcelona-based Spanish singer-songwriter Alvaro Lafuente brings his delicate acoustic guitar work and tender vocals from his critically acclaimed album La Cantera. His intimate folk sound blends traditional Spanish influences with indie sensibilities, creating deeply emotional songs that resonate even across language barriers.

TikTok sensation Bryant Barnes brings his viral hit I'd Rather Pretend and confessional bedroom pop to life in an intimate setting. With millions of streams and a devoted Gen Z following, his emotionally raw songwriting about relationships and mental health resonates deeply with a generation navigating modern love and anxiety.

DIY singer-songwriter Sam Greenfield brings his emotionally raw indie folk on a big 2026 tour. Known for intimate ballads and honest lyricism about mental health and relationships, his lo-fi production aesthetic and vulnerable performances create deeply personal connections with audiences seeking authentic songwriting.

Electronic producer Witchz brings the Enter Afterlife World Tour with their dark, industrial sound and cult-like fan following. With over 560K monthly listeners, their intense live shows blend electronic production with theatrical performance for an immersive experience that feels more like a ritual than a concert.

RIO KOSTA delivers their debut album UNICORN with expansive indie rock that blends psychedelic textures and art rock experimentation. Featured on FIFA soundtracks with tracks like Mountain Top, their cinematic approach and genre-fluid songwriting creates immersive sonic landscapes that reward deep listening.

Early morning dance party movement that starts the day with endorphins instead of hangovers. Earlybirds Club delivers substance-free dance floor energy before work, combining house and techno with wellness culture for a unique experience where the high comes from movement, community, and watching the sunrise through club lights.

Philadelphia-rooted songwriter Son Little (Aaron Livingston) revolutionizes modern R&B with his genre-fluid approach on album Like Neptune. His introspective explorations of identity and trauma are delivered with smoky vocals and innovative production that moves seamlessly between soul, blues, and indie rock without ever feeling derivative.

Swiss singer-songwriter and photographer Charline Mignot performs as Vendredi sur Mer, creating dreamy synth-pop soundscapes with poetic French lyrics. Her cinematic approach to indie pop has earned her millions of streams and comparisons to Christine and the Queens, blending visual artistry with lush electronic production for an immersive live experience.

One of the most exciting projects in heavy instrumental music, this organ trio on Colemine Records features Tim Carman from GA-20 on drums and Jimmy James formerly of Delvon Lamarr Organ Trio on guitar. Their sophomore effort showcases vintage organ-driven funk that channels the spirit of 60s and 70s soul jazz with modern energy.

Venezuelan funk legends Los Amigos Invisibles bring their infectious blend of disco, acid jazz, and Latin rhythms for a guaranteed dance party. Grammy-nominated for their genre-defying sound, this six-piece outfit has spent decades perfecting their Gozadera groove, creating music that makes standing still physically impossible.

New York-via-North Carolina septet The Nude Party channels 70s rock swagger through a modern lens on their album Rides On. With three guitars, keys, and a rhythm section that locks in tight, their live shows are rollicking celebrations of classic rock revival with enough youthful energy to keep things fresh.

Viral podcast duo Chad Goes Deep brings their satirical TED-style stoke seminar exploring enlightenment through the lens of bro culture. Hosts JT Parr and Ari Mannis tackle topics like chilling, vibing, and political activism with deadpan absurdist humor that went from joke to legitimate LA City Council advocacy. It is philosophy for the stoked.

Australian artist Lithe has become a breakout star with over 7.7M monthly Spotify listeners and collaborations with Don Toliver. His Euphoria album showcases genre-bending production that blends alternative R&B with electronic experimentation, creating atmospheric soundscapes that feel both intimate and expansive.

Denver funk institution The Motet brings their instrumental album All Day to life with tight grooves and extended improvisations. For over two decades, this seven-piece has been at the forefront of the jamband scene, blending funk, soul, and jazz into marathon dance sessions that showcase world-class musicianship and infectious energy.

Austin indie rock darlings Voxtrot reunite after their 2010 breakup, bringing back the jangly guitars and earnest vocals that made Your Biggest Fan a mid-2000s anthem. For fans who came of age during the indie rock blog era, this reunion tour is a chance to relive the sound that defined a generation of college radio.

Nashville folk group Tophouse blends Americana, bluegrass, Celtic, and Irish influences into a unique sound that crosses multiple genres. Their albums Practice and Theory were designed to be experienced together, showcasing instrumental virtuosity and tight harmonies that appeal to fans of progressive folk and roots music.

Formerly known as Quarters of Change, this NYC trio of Ben Roter, Jasper Harris, and Attila Anrather fuse 90s alternative hooks with modern indie sensibilities. Their signature hybrid sound blends unpredictability with catchy melodies, creating music that feels both familiar and fresh for fans of bands like Pavement and early Modest Mouse.

Innovative jazz drummer Tom Skinner blends intricate rhythms and electronic textures, showcasing his boundary-pushing sound from his latest project at The Independent.

Originally formed by late guitarist Neal Casal to create intermission music for the Grateful Dead Fare Thee Well concerts, Circles Around The Sun evolved into a fully realized instrumental jam band. Their cosmic psychedelic grooves and extended improvisations honor the Dead spirit while carving their own path through exploratory instrumental rock.

At only 23, Eliza McLamb has already created two transformative albums exploring complex trauma and healing. Her 2024 debut Going Through It channels Fiona Apple and Sufjan Stevens with ethereal vocals singing about dark subjects with hopeful tones, while her follow-up Good Story showcases artistic evolution and emotional maturity beyond her years.

Salt Lake City surf-rock band The Moss travels the world playing beach-inspired indie rock while advocating for environmental causes. Their latest EP showcases reverb-drenched guitars and carefree melodies that transport audiences to coastal vibes, proving you do not need an ocean to make authentic surf music.

Enigmatic Irish musician and NTS Radio host Maria Somerville returns after three years with her 4AD label debut. Drawing on folk forms alongside post-punk, traditional Irish motifs, and hypnotic drones, her album Luster is a love letter to Connemara that creates wholly original music inspired by Irish history, myth, and landscape.

Kalamazoo emo outfit saturdays at your place brings their sophomore album these things happen exploring young adulthood, relationships, and mental health. Their sound mixes heavy and twinkly guitar parts with group vocals creating dynamic emotional landscapes that find comfort in the chaos. Essential for fans seeking emo that is both brutal and beautiful.

Austin punk outfit Die Spitz blends classic punk, hardcore, metal, and alt-rock on their debut album Something to Consume. Known for riotous live performances and featuring drummer Chloe who also plays guitar and sings, they deliver unpredictable sets that channel punk fury through a modern lens with absolute commitment.

Night two of Die Spitz residency gives fans another chance to experience their explosive blend of punk, hardcore, and metal. With their KEXP performance going viral and Something to Consume making waves, these Austin punks prove that raw energy and musical versatility can coexist in perfect chaos.

Galway shoegaze four-piece NewDad brings their debut album Madra (Irish for dog) on tour, reconnecting with the shoegaze and rock sonics that define new generation dream pop. Their atmospheric guitar textures and reverb-soaked vocals represent a fresh take on 90s shoegaze for listeners discovering the genre through modern indie rock.

British indie legends Art Brut return with frontman Eddie Argos delivering his signature talk-sing style and observational lyrics about art, pop culture, and everyday life. Famous for declaring Modern art makes me want to rock out, their witty post-punk has never been more needed in an era that takes itself too seriously.

For over two decades, Langhorne Slim has been a fearless voice in modern Americana known for raw emotion and rule-breaking authenticity. The Dreamin Kind Tour showcases his ability to blend folk, rock, and soul into deeply personal songs that oscillate between heartbreak and hope with equal conviction.

Genre-blurring hip-hop artist Skizzy Mars blends introspective lyrics with melodic hooks, showcasing his growth in a captivating live setting at The Independent.

TikTok sensation Chris Grey brings his viral hit LET THE WORLD BURN with over 100M YouTube views to life in an intense live setting. His dark pop sound blends cinematic production with emotionally charged vocals, creating dramatic anthems perfect for fans who embrace their emo side and love songs about toxic devotion.

Lo-fi indie pop maestro Cut Worms crafts nostalgic melodies that resonate with both heart and humor, showcasing tracks from his latest release at The Independent.

Pakistani pop sensation Asim Azhar represents the heartbeat of Gen-Z South Asian music with his debut album BEMATLAB. Born in Karachi and raised on YouTube covers, he now commands nearly 5M monthly listeners with his blend of contemporary R&B and Urdu pop that bridges Eastern and Western musical sensibilities.

Viral TikTok sensation Claire Rosinkranz brings her breezy indie-pop to The Independent on her My Lover Tour. Her breakout hit 'Backyard Boy' amassed over 1 billion streams, showcasing her knack for relatable, bedroom-recorded pop that captures Gen Z's casual emotional honesty. Her album Just Because proves she's more than a one-hit wonder.

Indie-pop singer-songwriter Jensen McRae blends introspective lyrics with soulful melodies on her God Has A Hitman Tour, showcasing her poignant storytelling and rising artistry at The Independent.

Lo-fi hip-hop innovator Powfu presents an immersive tour that blends introspective lyrics with chill beats, creating a unique atmosphere at The Independent.

Oklahoma City duo Sports blur the lines between synth-pop, indie-funk, and psych-rock on their acclaimed album Get A Good Look. Cale Chronister and Christian Theriot craft lush, retro-tinged soundscapes that evoke early 2000s indie while remaining distinctly modern, perfect for fans who want Phoenix meets Tame Impala energy.

Eclectic trip-hop collective Archive pairs immersive soundscapes with the atmospheric post-rock of JoyCut, offering a unique blend of deep auditory exploration at The Independent.

Canadian avant-pop visionary Allie X brings her third album Girl with No Face to life with theatrical performances that push pop boundaries. Known for dark synthwave production and fearless experimentation, she creates immersive experiences where art meets pop spectacle, essential for fans who demand substance with their synth hooks.

New Zealand dream pop quartet Yumi Zouma crafts lush electronic soundscapes on their album Present Tense, recorded after their first tour was canceled during the pandemic. Their sophisticated blend of dreamy synths, layered vocals, and introspective lyrics creates immersive worlds perfect for fans of Beach House seeking something more textured.

Liverpool six-piece Red Rum Club brings their meteoric rise and fourth album Western Approaches to SF. With a post-war aesthetic and raw energy that channels Liverpool's rich musical heritage, they deliver anthemic indie rock with the kind of working-class authenticity and communal spirit that makes British guitar music essential.

London pop sensation Rose Gray delivers her brash debut album Louder Please, documenting fast-paced city life as a young woman with experimental dance pop. Fresh off touring with Kesha, her euphoric production and confident lyricism create the kind of club-ready anthems that demand to be played at maximum volume.

Indie-rock ensemble Searows blends intricate melodies with introspective lyrics, showcasing their fresh sound and dynamic stage presence at The Independent.

Bay Area's soulful R&B storyteller, Diggy Graves, showcases his evocative soundscapes and personal narratives at The Independent, solidifying his rising prominence in the local music scene.

French hip-hop collective Odezenne blends introspective lyricism with genre-defying beats, showcasing their innovative sound from their latest album at The Independent.