Ok, here’s wildpotato’s collection of instrumental indie music:
There’s the Blue Man Group, of course. Also, check out David Byrne’s newer stuff. Can’t find anything, but I know he’s got some international instrumental stuff. You might like Calexico more than anything else I’ve mentioned so far. The album I linked to, Tool Box, is entirely instrumental, I think. Do Make Say Think sometimes has a more modern sound, but is also pleasant, repetitive and relaxing in most parts. Occasionally they stick in some spaceship sounds, though. Not on the album I linked to, I don’t think. Fer Isella is kind of a folksy/light flamenco sound, quite pretty and unobtrusive without ever drifting into elevator music. I highly recommend their album Doña Furia Gaucha. Four Tet might be way too electronic for your needs, but they have some very beautiful songs, like that one and this one. John Bayless’ Bach Meets the Beatles album is cool, especially if you know a bit of music theory, but might fall into the classical category. Kaki King might be exactly what you’re looking for (especially the album Everybody Loves You, which is the better of her 2 all-instrumental albums). This is from her most recent CD, Dreaming of Revenge. It’s the first one she sings on occasionally. Along somewhat similar lines, there’s Leo Kottke – though he is kinda-sorta technically bluegrass. The song “Aurora Borealis” by the Meat Puppets might be good for you. Here is the only place I can find it – can’t vouch for the non-sleaziness of this website, though, as I have never used it before. Don’t bother with the Meat Puppets’ other stuff though it is excellent – Nirvana covered a few of their songs – it’s mostly vocals or too intense. Medeski, Martin, and Wood are fun, but might be too jumpy and modern for your event. Enough for tonight. N-Z tomorrow.