Indie Sleaze, the messy, party-fueled subculture that dominated the late 2000s and early 2010s made a fresh comeback, this time with a new generation embracing its carefree, rebellious spirit. Originating as the soundtrack and style of bands like The Strokes, Arctic Monkeys, and Yeah Yeah Yeahs, Indie Sleaze combined gritty indie rock sounds with a flashy, irreverent aesthetic characterised by skinny jeans, band tees, vintage jackets, and nights filled with excess.

After years of curated minimalism and “clean” aesthetics dominating fashion and music, the rawness and unpolished energy of Indie Sleaze feels like a breath of fresh air. Nostalgia cycles have also played a key role, as Gen Z rediscovers early 2010s culture through social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram, where hashtags and viral content revive the spirit of wild nights and unapologetic style.

The rise of vintage shopping and sustainability further feeds the movement, as thrifted, artisanal, and secondhand pieces are central to the look’s authenticity. Meanwhile, new artists are channelling Indie Sleaze’s trademark blend of glam and grit in ways that feel modern and exciting.

While classic bands remain influential, a new crop of musicians is heralding what’s been dubbed the “neo Indie Sleaze” era. Charli XCX played a major role in repopularising Indie Sleaze with her 2024 album Brat, which fused raw, unpolished sonic textures with high-energy, rebellious lyrics and a DIY attitude reminiscent of the original Indie Sleaze scene. Her bold, experimental pop sounds and unapologetically messy aesthetic reignited interest in the subculture’s ethos, inspiring a wave of emerging artists and fans alike to embrace the messy, chaotic, and fun spirit of Indie Sleaze. New York City’s The Dare, with hits like “Girls,” has also become an anthem for this revival, blending catchy pop hooks with sleazy party vibes. Other figures part of the ‘Indie Sleaze Revival’ scene include The Hellp, Snow Strippers, 2hollis and more, included in our playlist pick below.

Just Your Doll – Snow Strippers

Kerosene! – Yves Tumor

You’re Invited – The Dare

The Dark – VHS Collection

Like the TVS Do – Girlo

The Influencer – The Itch

tricked out –  damon r.

California Dream Girl – The Hellp

Spalarkle (Alys) – frlicita, Caroline Polachek

down – nate sib

gimme all ur luv – hemlocke springs

Everyone – Babymorocco

Crush – Parts

Air on a G string – Bassvictim

Art Sucks – Lydia Night

Roll the dice – Smerz

Where Did I Go? – Shelf Lives

Heroes – The Truth

Bikinis and Trackies – Babymorocco, Frost Children

Undertow – The Hellp

better on mine – REZA SAYS

safety – 2hollis

The new wave of Indie Sleaze is more than a throwback: it’s a cultural rebellion against uniformity, promoting raw energy, individuality, and a joyful embrace of chaos. Whether it’s in the raw guitar riffs, the flash of glam, or the late-night partying, Indie Sleaze’s spirit is alive and making noise again.