8 Great Deep Cuts by Neon Trees

Since their 2009 debut EP Start a Fire and breakthrough album Habits, Utah quartet Neon Trees have enchanted their fans with their mix of new wave, synth-pop, and indie influences. It’s like a throwback to the 1980s yet distilled through a modern lens, with frontman Tyler Glenn often ruminating on relationships affected by our disconnected technological age. That often mirrors what a lot of classic ‘80s bands were exploring during that revolutionary era, although times have changed.

With their fifth album Sink Your Teeth set to drop September 20, here are eight great deep cuts that Neon Trees have released over the last 15 years. While “Everybody Talks” and “Animal” are the two big songs everyone knows—you’ll even hear them in malls all these years later—they’ve released a diverse slate of tracks that are worth diving into. They’re one of the most underrated American bands out there.

“Phones” from Start a Fire EP (2009)

Early Neon Trees were more guitar-driven and rambunctious like this track from their out-of-print debut EP. With its keyboards and horns, this swinging song possesses a ‘60s-meets-‘80 vibe. While referencing new technology, “Phones” reminds us of what “ghosting” was like for young Gen Xers: Operator, we lost our connection / Operator, where’s our communication? / Operator, I am in love / All alone, you know / ‘Cause she’s just always talking on phones.

“Calling My Name” from Start a Fire EP (2009)

The push-pull of relationships, notably trust and security, often surfaces in Glenn’s lyrics. With Brendan Campbell’s Duran Duran-ish bass work and Chris Allen’s post-punk riffing, “Calling My Name” showcases Neon Trees in more of a pure rock mode. Its angsty and catchy and a bit more raw then the tunes to come. It’s gotten a decent amount of concert play, too.

“Our War” from Habits (2010)

The dreamy synth intro and Glenn’s recollections of youthful idealism explode into an agitated elegy for a relationship that has run its course. There’s that moment when there’s the shattering realization that while losing that love will be painful, it will be equally agonizing to continue as is. That sorrow is recognized here in one of Neon Trees’ most poignant songs.

The walls that you and me take down are only taller now
And I have even forgotten how to stand on my two feet
How honestly I am on my own, I happier to be alone
Everything I do alone has everything of you

“Teenage Sounds” from Picture Show (2012)

Although Picture Show presented us with a slicker, more polished Neon Trees, the music remained strong and resonated emotionally within their evolution. They also served up this continuation of their earlier sound, a critique against the “style over substance” and “fame for fame’s sake” paradigm that our modern age has wrought. Glenn angrily rails against it while Allen’s frenzied riffs, Campbell’s zooming bass lines, and Elaine Bradley’s hard-hitting drumming (controlling the chaos) join in the metaphysical and musical melee. It’s probably their noisiest song, in a good way.

“Trust” from Picture Show (2012)

On the flip side of that last track, this more subdued synth-pop tune will transport you to the mid-‘80s. It’s rich with moody atmosphere in its exploration of a communication breakdown, whether it’s with a lover or friend. The gentle, slightly melancholy instrumental coda fades back in unexpectedly and makes for a nice bookend to the track.

“American Zero” from Pop Psychology (2014)

The verses of this revved-up rocker give off big “My Sharona” vibes, and the group assimilate them into their sound and inject a tasty sax solo. Bradley’s percussive playfulness enlivens the tune. As with “Teenage Sounds,” the track reevaluates our collective value system and the things we (mis)prioritize.

She goes to parties for a drug that is new
Cause she’s all American
She’s barely breathing in her red white and blue
Classically American

I need a miracle to change up my mood
Cause I’m all American
I’m scared of pills and guns and cheap fast food
Kill me I’m American

“Feel Good” (Single, 2017)

This is a borderline deep cut, and it seemed apropos to put a perkier, poppier cut more in line with their singles releases. Neon Trees have distinctly different sides to their repertoire, such as this upbeat ode to the excitement and uncertainty of a new flame and wanting to keep things rolling along. It’s smoother and silkier than the other songs here, and it’s a great pop song.

“Holy Ghost” from I Can Feel You Forgetting Me (2020)

Given that the last Neon Trees album came out early in the pandemic and the group didn’t really start touring again until 2023, one could argue I Can Feel You Forgetting Me is an album full of deep cuts. “Holy Ghost” combines a lilting pop-rock approach with relatable, lovelorn lyrics about someone whose partner is emotionally distant at inopportune moments.

Now I’m calling you my holy ghost
Disappearing when I need you most
And I let you overthink when we got too close (oh)
Now I’m calling you my holy ghost
Yeah, you’re nowhere when I need you most
Then I let you overthink, so you went rogue

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