News•Apr 17, 2026
Clout Rock
In July, crypto‑music platform Nina Protocol released a curated "cloudrock" playlist, effectively naming a new, hazy subgenre that blends ethereal rock with digital aesthetics. The sound draws heavily from Copenhagen’s avant‑pop scene and 90s‑era shoegaze, while LA’s And Always Forever festival gave the style a live showcase alongside electroclash and shoegaze acts. Critics note the genre’s heavy reliance on nostalgia, meme‑driven curation, and crypto‑backed distribution, raising questions about its staying power beyond niche online communities.
