Imagine the indie rock version of the Dolly Parton and Kenny Rogers hit “Islands In The Stream”. Sometimes, dream collaborations happen. The albums below were one-off mini supergroups between musical giants. Here, you’ll find a new generation of current rock stars sharing stories and others connecting with the heroes that inspired them to pick up a guitar or start a band. What’s below may not be the epic soft rock of Parton and Rogers—impossible shoes to fill—but trust this list nonetheless offers indie rock’s must-hear collaborations.
Videos by American Songwriter
Courtney Barnett & Kurt Vile: ‘Lotta Sea Lice’
Two of indie rock’s finest came together in 2017 to record Lotta Sea Lice. This collaboration sounds more like a conversation than merely a collection of recorded tracks. Courtney Barnett and Kurt Vile both write free-flowing tunes that feel like diary entries. “Over Everything” finds Vile escaping with his guitar while Barnett dials in from Australia to reveal her songwriting process. A long-distance bond between touring artists sharing their solitary experiences.
David Byrne & St. Vincent: ‘Love This Giant’
These two just make sense. Talking Heads emerged from the CBGB punk scene in New York City and hit the fast-forward button on punk’s evolution to post-punk and new wave. Annie Clark, who does her prog-rock business as St. Vincent, borrows heavily from the left-of-center blueprint David Byrne created with Talking Heads. You can hear the influence being thrown back to Byrne as this 2012 collaboration showcases St. Vincent’s early avant-garde work.
Liam Gallagher & John Squire: ‘Liam Gallagher & John Squire’
Oasis wouldn’t exist without The Stone Roses. Noel Gallagher’s guitar riff on “Up In The Sky” doesn’t happen without John Squire’s psych-blues, as both changed music and culture from their homes in Manchester, England. Meanwhile, Liam Gallagher’s on-stage swagger shares DNA with The Roses’ Ian Brown, inspiring British youth to bluster down school halls wearing Adidas trainers and baggy clothes. “Just Another Rainbow” showcases what made Squire a modern guitar legend and also what made Liam a legend, period. So grab your bucket hat and check out this duo record from a pair of icons.
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