Nostalgia Strikes Back: The Cassette Revival and 5 Songs You Need to Hear
What’s up, friend!? Welcome back to Songs That Don’t Suck with your host, Mark. Every week, I comb through hundreds of new tracks to bring you the ones that actually matter. But before we dive into this week’s music, let’s rewind a bit and talk about something unexpected: the return of the cassette tape.
Is It Nostalgia or Something More?
Over the weekend, I took a trip to Fairlawn to celebrate Hollowbone Records’ 10th anniversary — shout out to them for a decade of keeping physical media alive . While I was digging through crates of vinyl, I noticed something… odd: cassette tapes. Yep, Taylor Swift has a cassette variant, and I saw others too. I thought, “Really? Cassette tapes?” But here we are.
Turns out, the cassette revival isn’t just a flash in the pan.
Why Are Cassette Tapes Making a Comeback?
It’s part physical collectability, part Gen Z-fueled nostalgia. Here’s what’s driving the trend:
- Affordability: Cassettes are cheaper to buy and produce.
- Aesthetic Value: They’re tangible, easy to display, and undeniably retro-cool.
- Artist Appeal: Indie musicians love them for their DIY charm.
- Digital Fatigue: In a streaming-saturated world, popping in a tape feels like a mindful ritual.
Sound quality? Eh. It’s not vinyl-level warm, but that’s not the point. It’s about experience.
Did you know cassette sales hit 440,000 units in 2023, up 440% from the year before? Major artists like Dua Lipa, Billie Eilish, Olivia Rodrigo, and of course Taylor Swift are in on the trend.
So now I wonder… will the mixtape make a triumphant return? Will kids sit by the radio, ready to record with fingers crossed the DJ doesn’t ruin the intro? Will the #2 pencil become relevant again?
Honorable Mentions 🎵
Before we jump into the weekly picks, here are a couple of honorable mentions:
- The Struts ft. Brian May – An epic reimagining of “Could Have Been Me,” now featuring guitar legend Brian May. That chorus hits different.
- Johnnyswim – “Tangerine” – A gentle reminder to live in the moment, even amid chaos. Beautiful and grounding.
🎶 This Week’s 5 Songs That Don’t Suck
1. “Passenger” – Glitterfox
Discovered thanks to longtime listener Brittney (thanks Britt!). Glitterfox delivers a dreamy blend of Fleetwood Mac vibes, 80s synth textures, and modern indie pop. The vocals? Pure Stevie Nicks energy. Perfect for a cozy fall evening.
2. “Another Planet” – Will Hoge
From his latest album Sweet Misery, this one channels pure Tom Petty-esque Americana. It’s heartfelt, unfiltered, and good for the soul. Rock without pretense. You can feel where this song comes from.
3. “Words” – Big Thief
Their second appearance on the podcast and for good reason. This track pulses with syncopated rhythm, acoustic roots, and layered chaos. Think Ani DiFranco’s Out of Range meets psychedelic indie experimentation. That 1:40 mark? Chef’s kiss.
4. “Elephant” – Juno Pearl
Say hello to the first Swedish band on the podcast! Juno Pearl brings a dark, poetic undercurrent with a spacious, dynamic composition. Lyrics like “Nostalgic Pit is out of season” will stick with you long after the track ends.
5. “Weatherman” – The Guest List
If you love the band Travis, this one will strike a chord. Mid-tempo rock, emotive vocals, and a killer guitar motif that echoes the lyrics. The single’s artwork is a vibe, too — like something you’d frame.
Final Notes ✨
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Until next time, keep spinning the tracks that don’t suck — and maybe grab a pencil while you’re at it 🖊️.
