New York,February 28,2025 – Sombr has delivered a captivating,indie-infused cover of Olivia Dean’s chart-topping hit “man I Need,” reimagining teh song for triple j’s renowned Like a Version series. The cover arrives just a week after the 20-year-old artist himself landed within the top 10 of Australia’s annual Hottest 100 countdown.
A Fresh Take on a Hottest 100 Winner
Table of Contents
Sombr puts his signature spin on Olivia Dean’s acclaimed track, blending emotional depth with a driving indie-rock sound.
- Sombr’s Cover – Sombr released an indie-rock cover of Olivia Dean’s “Man I Need” for triple j’s Like a Version.
- hottest 100 Success – This follows Sombr’s top 10 placement in Australia’s Hottest 100 countdown.
- Artist Praise – Sombr called Dean “inspiring” and praised the song’s enduring quality.
- Like a Version Debut – The cover marks Sombr’s first appearance on the Like a Version platform.
What makes a song truly timeless? According to Sombr, it’s a combination of production, lyrics, and an overall feeling-qualities he found abundantly present in Olivia Dean’s “Man I Need.”
“It feels so timeless and I love the production, I love the lyrics,” Sombr said. “Everything about it. Amazing.”
Stripping It Back, Building it up
Originally released by Dean in 2024, “Man I Need” claimed the No. 1 spot in triple j’s Hottest 100 of 2025, solidifying its status as a standout track of the year.Sombr’s rendition takes a different approach, emotionally stripping the song back while simultaneously building it up sonically. Distorted vocals and a propulsive indie-rock rhythm underpin the song’s familiar melody, creating a fresh and compelling listening experiance.
This Like a Version appearance represents Sombr’s first contribution to the platform and coincides with a period of meaningful momentum for the New York-based artist. He’s become known for seamlessly blending alt-pop and indie rock with deeply personal, emotionally resonant songwriting.
A Breakout Year
In 2025, Sombr released his debut studio album, I Barely Know Her, a 10-track project co-produced with Tony Berg. The album delves into themes of heartbreak, longing, and the complexities of life in New York City.It features several of his most triumphant tracks to date, including “Back to Friends,” which became a global hit and reached the top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100. “Undressed” topped charts in multiple countries, and “12 to 12” secured the No.8 position in the Hottest 100.
Sombr’s growing recognition has also extended to the awards circuit, with nominations at the 2025 MTV Video Music Awards for best new artist and best alternative, ultimately winning the latter. He’s also been steadily building a reputation for captivating live performances.
