Background
Alternative music stems from alternative rock which became decently popular in the late 1970s to early 1980s, which over the years has taken form in many other different genres of music such as country, indie, and even pop. According to Merriam-Webster Dictionary, the formal definition of alternative music is defined as music that is produced by performers who are outside the musical mainstream, that is typically regarded as more eclectic, original, and diverse than most popular music played on the radio. Often, alternative music has a good rhythm as well as gloomy and grungy guitars. The reason in which I am attracted to listening to alternative music is not only due to the deeper creativity of the music, but also gives me a feeling of happy-go-lucky or relaxation. This genre is exceptionally good at creating “vibey” sounds and good lyrics.
My Favorite Bands
Cigarettes After Sex:
Cigarettes After Sex is an alternative/indie band that was created by four gentlemen in El Paso, Texas in 2008. This unique sounding band consists of Greg Gonzalez, Phillip Tubbs, Jacob Tomsky, Randy Miller. The best way I can describe the sound of their music is “limerent” and dream-like and is often based on themes of romance and deep love. Gonzalez, the founder, and lead singer has a unique voice that can be thought of as androgynous. Some of my favorite songs include “Crush,” “Young & Dumb,” and “Truly.” I’d definitely say this band is worth a listen.
The Neighbourhood:
The Neighbourhood is a little more mainstream than some other alternative bands due to the popularity they gained online once they became an official band in 2011. The Neighbourhood has more of an alternative rock vibe rather than mellow and chill. Guitars, drums, and basses are very apparent in their music. In addition to the main instruments, the lead singer, Jesse James Rutherford, has a voice that can be described as raspy and passionate. Some of my favorites from The Neighborhood include, “Sweater Weather,” “The Beach,” and “$TING.”
Arctic Monkeys:
Arctic Monkeys are an indie rock band formed in England in the early 2000s. When first starting out, the band members were distributing their homemade material on the Internet, and because of this, were able to build a sizable fan base without the help of a record label, later on signing with Domino Records around 2005. As their popularity is central to Europe and the UK, they did sell a substantial amount of debut records in the United States, that number being 300,000 copies. My favorite songs from them include, “Why’d You Only Call Me When You’re High,” “One For The Road,” ‘Do I Wanna Know?” and “Arabella.”
Honorable Mentions
- Cage The Elephant
- Chase Atlantic
- Girl in Red
- Clairo
- Feng Suave
- Peach Pit
- Dominic Fike
- DOPE LEMON
- Rex Orange County
- Boy Pablo
- Tame Impala
- Lana Del Rey