New Artists Radar: The Dare

By Erin Patterson

Music Journalist

A new indie-rock artist has entered the game. Harrison Patrick Smith, who goes by the alias, The Dare, has already made waves with only two songs in his repertoire. Based in New York City, The Dare’s music can be compared to the gritty party scene that thrives in the city. Offspring to the house music from the indie sleaze era of the early aughts, The Dare captures the essence of artists like LCD Soundsystem, while making it his own.

His first single, “Girls,” was released in August of 2022. The song is simple, in that he is essentially speaking about how he loves all types of girls. However, the production has a certain quality to it that makes you want to keep listening to it on a loop. A track that’s easy to chant along to, while also making you want to jump around in a crowd of sweaty bodies under the strobe lights of a club. The single started to gain popularity on social media, specifically on TikTok. “Girls” has now accumulated more than two million listens on Spotify. After “Girls” was released, we were left to wonder, is The Dare a one hit wonder? Well, I can assure you that is not the case.

“Good Time,” the Dare’s second single, was released in March of this year. Another lyrically simple song, the title truly sums up what the song is about. Smith speak-sings about partying with a girl, but having no money in their bank accounts. Even though they’re broke, they will make the most out of the night. Again, the production on this track has absolutely rocked my world. When I listen to this song, I feel like the coolest person in the world. If “Girls” was meant to be played in the club, “Good Time” was meant for a Project X level house party. The Dare once again created a track that is hypnotic and catchy, leaving you no choice but to dance.

For only two songs under his belt, The Dare has already left his mark in the indie-rock scene. Currently, he is lined up to play the Primavera Sound music festival in Barcelona this summer. He also plays DJ sets frequently, mainly in Los Angeles and New York. While Smith has not specifically mentioned whether he is working on an album, I would say it is safe to assume that “Girls” and “Good Time” are part of a larger project that could be released soon. I truly believe that The Dare will become a very popular and successful artist. Based on his career trajectory with only two songs out in the world, I think if he were to release an album, his career would blast off more than it already has. I am very excited to see what The Dare has in store for new music, and if it is anything like “Girls” and “Good Time,” he will cement himself as one of my favorite indie rock/dance artists of all time.