The Best Indie Soundtracks You Didn’t Know About

When it comes to movies, the soundtrack plays as crucial a role as the visuals and script. Indie films, in particular, often feature unique soundtracks that enhance their emotional depth and storytelling. Here’s a curated list of the best indie soundtracks you didn’t know about, each offering a distinctive auditory experience that is sure to capture your imagination.

1. “Garden State” (2004)

One of the most celebrated indie soundtracks, Garden State, directed by Zach Braff, captures the essence of early 2000s indie music. The soundtrack features a blend of artists like The Shins, Iron & Wine, and Natalie Portman’s favorite track, “New Slang.” The music is pivotal in setting the tone for the film’s exploration of identity and coming-of-age themes, making it a nostalgic experience for many.

2. “The Secret Life of Walter Mitty” (2013)

The soundtrack for The Secret Life of Walter Mitty, curated by Theodore Shapiro, features a mix of original compositions and indie rock tracks. Notably, the song “Dirty Paws” by Of Monsters and Men transcends the film’s narrative, encapsulating the beauty of adventure and self-discovery. Additionally, songs by David Bowie and Rogue Wave enhance the film’s exploration of imagination and reality.

3. “Once” (2007)

Once, directed by John Carney, doubles as a heartfelt romance and a musical masterpiece. The soundtrack features original songs written and performed by the lead actors Glen Hansard and Markéta Irglová. The Academy Award-winning “Falling Slowly” defines the film’s poignant moments, while the entire score frames a love story built around music and connection.

4. “Little Miss Sunshine” (2006)

With a score by Mychael Danna and a blend of indie favorites like Sufjan Stevens and Devotchka, the Little Miss Sunshine soundtrack is both uplifting and heartwarming. The eclectic mix captures the family’s road trip adventure perfectly, balancing humor and emotional depth. The charming “Till I Get Over You” by M. Ward stands out as a highlight of the album.

5. “A Ghost Story” (2017)

David Lowery’s A Ghost Story is driven by its hauntingly beautiful score created by Daniel Hart. The minimalist yet evocative soundtrack bolsters the film’s exploration of time, loss, and existence. The ethereal sounds provide a meditative backdrop, allowing audiences to lose themselves in the story’s depth and emotional resonance.

6. “Frances Ha” (2012)

The Frances Ha soundtrack is a delightful mix of contemporary indie pop and classic tracks. With an emphasis on songs that evoke city life, the soundtrack features artists like Noah and the Whale and David Bowie. The song “Modern Love” perfectly encapsulates the film’s themes of friendship, ambition, and the ups and downs of life in New York City.

7. “The Way Way Back” (2013)

Curated by the exceptional cut-up artist and director, The Way Way Back blends feel-good tracks from the late 90s to early 2000s. The soundtrack features artists like Fleetwood Mac and Robyn, making it a nostalgic trip filled with vibrant energy. The use of “Young Blood” by 5 Seconds of Summer reflects the carefree youth and summer adventures portrayed in the film.

8. “Juno” (2007)

The soundtrack of Juno, featuring a mix of indie bands like Moldy Peaches and Belle & Sebastian, became a hallmark of the mid-2000s. The song “Anyone Else But You” encapsulates the quirky romance at the heart of the story. The eclectic sound perfectly mirrors the film’s offbeat charm and humor, making it a soundtrack worth revisiting.

9. “Boyhood” (2014)

Richard Linklater’s Boyhood follows a coming-of-age story through twelve years of life. The soundtrack features a carefully selected playlist that spans multiple decades, from Coldplay’s “Yellow” to Arcade Fire’s “Deep Blue.” The music enhances the emotional journey, reflecting the changes and growth of the protagonist, Mason.

10. “Lady Bird” (2017)

Greta Gerwig’s Lady Bird offers a soundtrack that is as dynamic as its narrative. Combining indie rock and pop, the album features hits from artists like Justin Bieber, and groups like The Dave Matthews Band. The inclusion of “Crash Into Me” is particularly nostalgic for those who grew up in the 2000s, resonating deeply with the film’s themes of adolescence and family conflict.

11. “Elizabethtown” (2005)

The soundtrack of Elizabethtown, directed by Cameron Crowe, is a stellar collection of rock songs that complement the film’s themes of life and redemption. Featuring artists like Tom Petty and The Decemberists, the music evokes deep emotional undercurrents while adding a feeling of spontaneity that perfectly complements the film’s narrative arc.

12. “The Florida Project” (2017)

With a score by Desplat that captures the innocence and vibrancy of childhood, The Florida Project features an eclectic list of tracks that include folk and hip-hop genres. The music beautifully underscores the story of childhood joy and struggle, creating a soundtrack that is both emotionally impactful and culturally resonant.

13. “Swiss Army Man” (2016)

The soundtrack of Swiss Army Man, featuring Daniel Radcliffe and Paul Dano, is as unique as its premise. It incorporates songs that are whimsical and surreal, echoing the film’s themes of friendship and existential musings. The original compositions create a fascinating landscape that mirrors the bizarre plot while highlighting moments of surreal humor and profound connection.

14. “Sing Street” (2016)

This coming-of-age musical drama from John Carney captures the spirit of the 1980s with its original songs performed by a group of teens in Dublin. The soundtrack, which includes tracks like “Drive It Like You Stole It,” combines nostalgia with infectious energy, making it a celebration of youthful passion and creativity.

15. “Hereditary” (2018)

Toni Collette stars in Ari Aster’s horror film Hereditary, accompanied by an unsettling score by Colin Stetson. The soundtrack uses dissonance and minimalism to evoke feelings of dread and anxiety, creating an atmosphere that enhances the film’s psychological horror elements. The music is as haunting as the film itself, making it a standout indie soundtrack despite its unconventional nature.

16. “The Little Hours” (2017)

This modern-day adaptation of Boccaccio’s Decameron is complemented by a quirky soundtrack including contemporary folk and indie sounds. The film’s lighthearted take on medieval mischief is perfectly encapsulated in the eclectic and playful tracks which mirror the absurdity of the plot.

17. “Mistress America” (2015)

Noah Baumbach’s Mistress America utilizes an engaging mix of contemporary indie tracks that resonate perfectly with the film’s exploration of self-discovery and relationships. The soundtrack adds layers to the dialogue-heavy narrative, making the characters’ journeys all the more relatable.

18. “The Spectacular Now” (2013)

Featuring a blend of indie pop and acoustic songs, the soundtrack for The Spectacular Now includes tracks by artists like Youth Lagoon and Peter Bjorn and John. The music captures the highs and lows of young love and coming-of-age, enhancing the film’s emotional depth and relatability.

19. “The Last Black Man in San Francisco” (2019)

Mickey Sumner’s score accompanies this poignant tale with a dreamy, reflective quality that emphasizes the film’s themes of place and belonging. The lush orchestral textures work alongside soulful tracks from various artists, crafting an immersive soundscape that enhances the film’s exploration of gentrification and identity.

20. “Patterson” (2016)

Jim Jarmusch’s Paterson has a laid-back soundtrack that primarily consists of jazz pieces, embodying the film’s meditative nature. Featuring the works of composers such as Giacomo Puccini and Paterson’s protagonist, Adam Driver, the music carries a soothing ambiance that matches the daily experiences of its bus driver and poet hero.

In discovering these indie soundtracks, you uncover a wealth of unique musical landscapes that not only elevate the films they accompany but stand alone as musical works of art. Each soundtrack plays a crucial role in enhancing the narrative, allowing viewers to relive the emotional nuances long after the credits roll. Whether through nostalgic tones or groundbreaking compositions, these soundtracks are hidden treasures waiting to be celebrated.