Half of 2026 is now over. Many records from the year so far have been praised, but some have not received the attention they deserve. Here are 10 worthy releases from the first six months of 2026 that are worth checking out if you missed them upon release.
Jim E. Brown – Dirt
The year’s funniest indie album, bar none. A self-described “19-year-old boy who suffers from various degenerative conditions and alcoholism,” Jim E. Brown may or may not be the stage name of Philadelphia musician and filmmaker Max Margulies, who makes hilariously deadpan talk-singing post-punk songs. His demeanor is often disgruntled, and his music is extremely basic, yet there’s a certain stealth genius going on here.
Cardinals – Masquerade
The members of this young English band were in pre-school during the prime of mid-aughts indie rock. But on their debut album Masquerade, they sound uncannily like a band that would have toured with Spoon or The Walkmen in 2005. The tempos lurch from stately to furious, and the guitars can turn quickly from soothing to scathing.
Cola – Cost Of Living Adjustment
This Montreal band evolved out of the late, great 2010s era band Ought. In Cola, they pick up where Ought left off, refining that previous band’s mix of post-punk aggression and art-rock thoughtfulness on a set of songs that evince serious pop appeal.
Charlotte Cornfield – Hurts Like Hell
While already recognized in Canada, Charlotte Cornfield’s affecting story songs could use some extra shine in the States. Hurts Like Hell unfolds like a series of Carver-esque short stories set to country-rock soundtracks, with Cornfield acting as our empathetic and wry narrator.
Thomas Dollbaum – Birds Of Paradise
This New Orleans-based singer-songwriter demonstrates an old-school way with narrative songwriting. Despite a label dispute delaying the release of Birds Of Paradise, the wait was worth it for this winning country-indie record, which features backing from MJ Lenderman.
Daughn Gibson – Lake Mary Not Mysterious
After a long hiatus, Daughn Gibson returns with music that continues his exploration of the darker, noirish corners of the soul.
Mildred – Fenceline
The Bay Area band Mildred offers a refreshing take on the style of the late David Berman. Fenceline functions as a collaborative effort where all four members contribute to songwriting, creating a record that feels like a great hang.
Ovven – Gnawing At The Cord
Nashville singer-songwriter Owen Burton, recording as Ovven, delivers an album that pays homage to the North Carolina indie scene while establishing his own knack for guitar-driven hooks.
Sunday Mourners – A-Rhythm Absolute
Hailing from Los Angeles, Sunday Mourners deliver punchy, street-level anthems that capture a timeless guitar-rock energy, reminiscent of classic post-punk while remaining firmly rooted in the present.
Westside Cowboy – So Much Country 'Till We Get There
This English band filters country and folk elements through a flinty garage-rock sensibility. Their EP is a testament to their youthful exuberance and ability to light a fire in the soul.