Dopamine

“Trouble” by Thom Chapman is an evocative blend of psych pop, dream pop, and art rock that captures the struggle of moving on from a past relationship. The track opens with subtle, haunting violin strains, leading into a rich tapestry of filtered laid back yet shuffling drums and a Paul McCartney-esque bass line. Elliott Smith-like guitar effects and George Harrison-inspired leads intertwine with Everly Brothers-style harmonies, creating a sound that is both nostalgic and innovative.

The crescendo of staccato piano chords and a swirling melodic synth line brings the song to an abrupt and powerful conclusion, leaving listeners in a contemplative state. Thom’s intricate compositions and evocative storytelling are on full display in “Trouble,” making it a standout track that resonates deeply with listeners.

This single is a testament to Thom’s ability to blend classic influences with contemporary sounds, offering a unique and engaging musical experience. Ideal for fans of deeply emotional and thoughtfully crafted music, “Trouble” is set to make a significant impact.

Trouble

Psychadelic-pop track that bounces along, waving to Tears for Fears and Sgt. Pepper. Happy vibe, with satirical lyrics. 

Horseshoe Smile

With 2024 comes a new set of music, building off of last year’s series of singles. Initially started after the release of their debut LP and subsequently shaped over the following three years, the songs see a thematic maturation and a stronger reliance on embracing melodies and technology. Across these tracks, the lyrics reflect on a variety of themes like finding love, taking comfort in the mundanities of life and establishing your place in this world, surrounded by tinges of nostalgia along the way.

Lens Flare

Anhendonia

Warbler

Remnants of Sunset

Hypnosis

Ceiling Stars

Mascara Streaks

Autumn Calling

Clouds of Jet Lag

Arlanda

Capturing the contradiction of wanting to be noticed but fearing what comes with it, ‘Hoping You See Me (Hoping You Don’t Too)’ pulses with hypnotic an indie rock groove with jazzy undertones before rising into a cathartic, crowd-sung climax. Tremolo guitars, electric piano, and vibey basslines give it a hazy, late-night nostalgia—like a lost dream. As the final bridge swells, layered voices turn introspection into anthemic release. A textured, immersive journey for fans of Wilco’s nostalgic Americana indie rock storytelling and modern dreamlike indie and chamber psych soundscapes.

Hoping You See Me (Hoping You Don't Too)

Let’s Get Started Already (feat. Abigail Chapin) comes out on April 15, and the record release show to be held at Non Plus Ultra on April 19.

This song was recorded in New York with my long-time collaborator Jesse Lee (former drummer of Gang Gang Dance and Cass McCombs band) and features Abigail Chapin (from The Chapin’s Sisters and member of her uncle Harry Chapin's Family Band).  

We wanted to focus on recording real instruments and live performances.  This experience was a welcome challenge for me; to make something psychedelic without relying on effects.  I channeled my freak folk roots and recalled early recordings I did with artists like Animal Collective, White Magic, and Weyes Blood to craft a song with a positive message in this period marked by so many existential challenges.

Let's Get Started Already (feat. Abigail Chapin)

Writing, vocals, instruments and production by Lennard Vaarten
Acoustic guitar by Fabinho Pereira
Artwork by Reinout Dijkstra

We Won't Leave You Behind

Tropism

From the album 'A Carnival of Grey & White' out October 3rd via Futureman Records (CD) and Easter Records (LP).

A Carnival of Grey and White

The music of Outer Surface feels like the memory of a dream—elusive yet deeply familiar. Created by Gregory Kane, it blends the warmth of indie rock with layered textures, where nostalgia meets emotional truth. Echoes of Grandaddy, Wilco, and Guster ripple through shimmering guitars, hypnotic rhythms, and atmospheric synths—recorded in his Pasadena studio with drums by Francesca Prattico in Italy. The songs explore the feelings we carry but rarely name—regret, hope, memory, and longing. This isn’t music for a room full of people. It’s music for the space between your ribs—the place only headphones can reach.

It’s 2025 and Milwaukee power-pop jangle combo Trolley are celebrating their 30th anniversary with the release of “A Carnival of Grey and White”, full length album number five, in addition to numerous critically noteworthy EPs, singles and compilation tracks. Trolley has continually mined the past and present for its melodious, urgent, and colorful soundscape. Since 1995, the Milwaukee band has released a series of albums built from the best elements of psychedelia and punk, classic pop and the hard driving beat of the Mod era. After a productive first twenty-five years, the band was in the middle of recording its latest when guitarist, vocalist and producer Mike Perotto passed. Finishing the record and dedicating it to his memory, guitarist/vocalist Paul J Wall and bassist/vocalist Terry Hackbarth meticulously built on the charging sound of the band. The resulting record, “A Carnival of Grey and White” will be released October 3rd, 2025. The first blast-off single (and title track) will be released on June 29th, the fourth anniversary of Perotto’s passing.

Thom Chapman
Psych Pop | Dream Pop | Dark Art Rock

Welcome to the sonic world of Thom Chapman, where psych pop melodies meet dream pop aesthetics and dark art rock vibes. Drawing inspiration from The Beatles and blending it with modern influences, Thom creates music that is as evocative as it is enigmatic. His intricate compositions and emotive lyrics resonate with listeners who appreciate the depth of retro rock infused with contemporary sounds.

Thom is the creative force behind projects like Fox Grin and A Co., and has toured as a guitarist with acclaimed artists like Becca Mancari and Boy Orbison. His diverse musical background and visual arts influence shine through in every note, creating a rich, immersive experience for his audience.

Get ready to explore a musical landscape where every track tells a story and every melody lingers long after the song ends. Thom’s innovative approach and dedication to his craft have garnered attention from both fans and industry professionals alike.

Stay connected for updates on new releases, behind-the-scenes content, and more. Discover the next chapter in Thom Chapman’s artistic journey.

 Follow Thom for the latest on his projects and upcoming music 

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New tracks tagged #psychpop