Baltimore-based indie band Underlined Passages has released their latest album, Landfill Indie, a project that challenges the current state of indie rock while embracing its past. Described by the band as “a sleeper protest record,” the album critiques the fragmentation of modern indie music into countless subgenres and the fickle attitudes of contemporary critics.
Songwriter Michael Nestor crafted Landfill Indie to evoke the feeling of a late-90s or early-2000s emo mixtape. This intentional throwback reflects the irony of today’s indie music landscape, where corporate digital platforms have divided the genre into niches even as they celebrate the revival of music from that era. According to Nestor, the album’s sound serves as a bridge between nostalgia and commentary, resonating with audiences revisiting the past while questioning the present.
The band’s history underscores their connection to this cultural moment. Underlined Passages has previously shared the stage with notable acts such as Explosions in the Sky, Grandaddy, Joan as Police Woman, and Now It’s Overhead—many of whom are currently enjoying renewed attention. With Landfill Indie, the band positions itself as both a participant in and a critic of this revival, offering a fresh perspective on indie rock’s evolving identity.
Collaborating with longtime producer Frank Marchand (known for his work with Bob Mould and The War on Drugs), Underlined Passages blends melodic nostalgia with introspective themes. The album explores maintaining purpose, reevaluating relationships, and navigating an increasingly digitized culture dominated by avatars and virtual connections. This reflective tone aligns with the band’s roots in Baltimore’s early-2000s DIY indie rock scene—a scene celebrated for producing influential acts like Future Islands, Wye Oak, and Beach House.
Landfill Indie also represents a return to form for Nestor, who incorporates technicolor recordings and solid melodies reminiscent of his earlier work. Drawing from his experience in Baltimore’s vibrant music community, Nestor channels the ethos of a scene recognized by Rolling Stone in 2008 for its innovation and authenticity.
With its layered critique and heartfelt sound, Landfill Indie offers listeners a chance to reflect on where indie rock has been and where it is heading. Underlined Passages strikes a balance between honoring their roots and questioning the forces shaping today’s music landscape.
