Artists in Genre
A good girl's guide to Indie awesomeness (maybe murder)
(Spotify being Spotify)
Indie artists often provide distinctive sounds, provocative lyrics, and a DIY mentality that defies conventional norms. Artists can express themselves fully, experiment with new things, and establish stronger connections with listeners through their music. All things considered, alternative and indie musicians play a crucial role in shaping the innovative and cultural fabric of modern music by providing fans with unique viewpoints and experiences by breaking conventions.
It is now easier for viewers to find new music due to the growth of streaming services like YouTube, Apple Music, and Spotify. Listeners are exposed to a broader range of music through these platforms' curated playlists, algorithm-based recommendations, and personalized discovery features.
(How to kill men and get away with it)
Social media platforms like Instagram, youtube and Twitter are used by both fans and artists to promote upcoming events and releases, exchange music, and interact with other like-minded people. Information about artists is also distributed through online music discussion forums and groups.
(Here's to 14 years old Noor who used to be part of Shawn Mendes' and One Direction fan communities)
(I thank past Noor to be cringe enough to know this stuff lol)
Many alt/Indie artists are signed to independent record labels that promote and grow emerging musicians and non-mainstream songs. These labels frequently have devoted fan bases and marketing avenues that helps promoting the work of artists.
The increasing popularity of alt/Indie musicians in recent years can be attributed to a variety of factors, including live performances, internet platforms, social media and traditional media sources.
​
Below I’ll be talking about a few popular, underrated and some of my favorite alt/indie artists.
Have I finally lost my mind?
.jpeg)
(Thanks to my brother I have been traumatized after listening to Nirvana on repeat.)
Nirvana was an American rock band formed in Aberdeen, Washington, in 1987. The band was founded by lead singer and guitarist Kurt Cobain and bassist Krist Novoselic. Nirvana went through a succession of drummers, the longest-lasting and best-known being Dave Grohl, who joined in 1990. Along with groups like Pearl Jam, Soundgarden, and Alice in Chains, Nirvana played a significant role in popularizing the grunge genre. Their music took elements from a wide range of genres, including punk rock and heavy metal.
Cobain's distinct voice, Novoselic's catchy bass lines, and Grohl's powerful drumming defined the band's sound. Nirvana's second album, "Nevermind," released in 1991, propelled them to worldwide fame. The album featured the hit single "Smells Like Teen Spirit," which became an anthem for the generation and is often considered one of the greatest rock songs of all time.
Nirvana's lyrics often touched on themes of angst, alienation, and social issues, resonating with a generation disillusioned with mainstream culture.
Despite their success, Cobain's death in 1994 sadly ended Nirvana's career.
However, the band's legacy persisted long after their deaths, even now they are recognized as one of the most significant and influential artists in the history of rock music.
Radiohead is an English rock band formed in 1985. The band consists of Thom Yorke (vocals, guitar, piano), Jonny Greenwood (lead guitar, keyboards, other instruments), Colin Greenwood (bass), Ed O'Brien (guitar, backing vocals), and Philip Selway (drums, percussion).
Radiohead's early sound was influenced by alternative rock, Britpop, and post-punk, but they have since explored a variety of musical styles, incorporating electronic music, experimental rock, and art rock into their sound. Their lyrics often touch on themes of alienation, modern life, and political and environmental issues.
The band gained worldwide fame with their third album, "OK Computer" (1997), which is often regarded as one of the greatest albums of all time. The album's complex production and themes of technology, capitalism, and societal decay established Radiohead as one of the leading alternative rock bands of the 1990s.
Radiohead continued to experiment with their sound on subsequent albums, such as "Kid A" (2000) and "Amnesiac" (2001), which incorporated more electronic and ambient elements. The band's later work, including albums like "In Rainbows" (2007) and "A Moon Shaped Pool" (2016), has been praised for its innovation and emotional depth.
Radiohead is also known for their innovative marketing and distribution strategies, such as releasing "In Rainbows" as a pay-what-you-want download. Their willingness to embrace new technologies and challenge traditional music industry practices has made them influential figures in the music industry.
Overall, Radiohead is acclaimed for their musical creativity, lyrical depth, and willingness to push boundaries, making them one of the most respected and influential bands in contemporary music.
The Neighbourhood is an American alternative rock band formed in Newbury Park, California, in 2011. The band consists of vocalist Jesse Rutherford, guitarists Jeremy Freedman and Zach Abels, bassist Mikey Margott, and drummer Brandon Alexander Fried.
The Neighbourhood gained attention with their debut single "Female Robbery" and released their first EP, "I'm Sorry...", in 2012. They quickly gained a following for their moody, atmospheric sound, characterized by Rutherford's smooth vocals and the band's blend of indie rock, R&B, and electronic influences.
In 2013, The Neighbourhood released their debut album, "I Love You.," which featured the hit singles "Sweater Weather" and "Afraid." "Sweater Weather" in particular became a massive success, propelling the band to international fame and earning them critical acclaim.
Subsequent releases, including the albums "Wiped Out!" (2015) and "The Neighbourhood" (2018), as well as the mixtape "Hard to Imagine the Neighbourhood Ever Changing" (2018), continued to showcase the band's dark, introspective sound and earned them a dedicated fan base.
The Neighbourhood is known for their distinctive aesthetic, often incorporating black-and-white imagery and a mysterious, somewhat enigmatic persona. Their music explores themes of love, loss, and existential angst, resonating with listeners who appreciate their emotive lyrics and atmospheric soundscapes.
Overall, The Neighbourhood has established themselves as one of the leading alternative rock bands of the 2010s, known for their unique sound and artistic vision.
The Lumineers gained widespread recognition with their self-titled debut album, released in 2012. The album featured the hit singles "Ho Hey," "Stubborn Love," and "Flowers in Your Hair," and received critical acclaim for its raw, authentic sound and poignant songwriting.
In 2016, The Lumineers released their second studio album, "Cleopatra," which continued to showcase their signature folk sound while exploring themes of love, loss, and redemption. The album's lead single, "Ophelia," became a major hit and further solidified the band's popularity.
The Lumineers are known for their energetic live performances and have built a strong fan base through extensive touring. They have also contributed music to soundtracks, including the film "The Hunger Games: Catching Fire" and the TV show "Game of Thrones."
Overall, The Lumineers have been praised for their sincere, heartfelt music and their ability to connect with listeners on a personal level. They have achieved commercial success while maintaining a distinctively rootsy and authentic sound, making them one of the leading bands in the folk rock revival of the 2010s
Mitski's music is known for its emotional depth, poetic lyrics, and eclectic blend of indie rock, folk, and art pop. She gained widespread acclaim with her early albums, including "Lush" (2012) and "Bury Me at Makeout Creek" (2014), which showcased her distinctive songwriting style and powerful vocals.
Mitski's breakout album, "Puberty 2," released in 2016, received critical acclaim and further established her as a unique voice in indie music. The album's raw, confessional lyrics and Mitski's dynamic performances garnered her a dedicated fan base and solidified her reputation as an artist to watch.
In 2018, Mitski released her fifth studio album, "Be the Cowboy," which was met with widespread acclaim and earned her even more recognition. The album's experimental sound and introspective lyrics earned Mitski a Grammy nomination for Best Recording Package.
Mitski announced a hiatus from touring and recording in 2020, citing the need for a creative break. Despite this, her impact on the indie music scene continues to be felt, and she remains a beloved figure among fans and critics alike.
Courtney Barnett is an Australian singer-songwriter and musician known for her witty and observational lyrics, deadpan singing style, and distinctive indie rock sound. She was born on November 3, 1987, in Sydney, Australia.
Barnett gained international recognition with the release of her EP "The Double EP: A Sea of Split Peas" in 2013, which featured the singles "Avant Gardener" and "History Eraser." The EP received critical acclaim and helped establish Barnett as a rising star in the indie music scene.
In 2015, Barnett released her debut album, "Sometimes I Sit and Think, and Sometimes I Just Sit," which further solidified her reputation as a talented songwriter and performer. The album received widespread praise for its clever lyrics, catchy melodies, and Barnett's charismatic delivery.
Barnett's music is often characterized by its introspective and narrative-driven lyrics, which touch on themes of everyday life, self-reflection, and the human experience. She is also known for her distinctive guitar playing style, which blends elements of indie rock, folk, and grunge.
Barnett's second studio album, "Tell Me How You Really Feel," was released in 2018 and continued to showcase her songwriting prowess and musical versatility. The album received positive reviews and further cemented Barnett's status as one of the most exciting artists in contemporary indie rock.
Throughout her career, Barnett has received numerous accolades and awards for her music, including Grammy nominations and ARIA Music Awards. She continues to tour and record music, captivating audiences with her honest lyrics and infectious melodies.
Paramore's music is known for its energetic guitar riffs, catchy melodies, and Williams' powerful vocals. The band's lyrics often touch on themes of youth, self-discovery, and empowerment, resonating with a generation of fans facing similar struggles.
In 2009, Paramore released their third studio album, "Brand New Eyes," which was well-received by critics and fans alike. The album showcased a more mature sound for the band, with deeper and more introspective lyrics.
Paramore faced several lineup changes over the years, most notably the departure of founding members Josh and Zac Farro in 2010. Despite these changes, the band continued to release music and tour, further solidifying their status as one of the leading acts in alternative rock.
In 2013, Paramore released their self-titled fourth album, which marked a departure from their earlier sound and incorporated more pop and new wave influences. The album was a critical and commercial success, featuring the hit singles "Still Into You" and "Ain't It Fun."
Paramore's fifth studio album, "After Laughter," was released in 2017 and marked another stylistic shift for the band, incorporating elements of synth-pop and new wave. The album received widespread acclaim and further cemented Paramore's reputation as a versatile and innovative band.
Throughout their career, Paramore has won numerous awards, including Grammy Awards and MTV Video Music Awards, and has sold millions of albums worldwide. They continue to be a prominent and influential force in the alternative rock genre.
Cavetown's music is characterized by its introspective lyrics, catchy melodies, and Skinner's gentle vocals. His songs often touch on themes of love, mental health, and self-discovery, resonating with a generation of listeners navigating similar issues.
Skinner gained wider recognition with the release of his debut album, "Lemon Boy," in 2018. The album received positive reviews and featured the title track "Lemon Boy," which became a fan favorite and garnered millions of streams online.
Since then, Cavetown has released several more albums and EPs, including "Sleepyhead" (2020) and "Man's Best Friend" (2021). His music has evolved over the years, incorporating more electronic elements and production while maintaining its intimate and heartfelt quality.
In addition to his music, Cavetown is known for his engaging presence on social media, where he shares updates about his life and music with his fans. He has also collaborated with other artists and musicians, further expanding his reach and influence in the indie music scene.
Cavetown's music has struck a chord with listeners around the world, earning him a dedicated fan base and critical acclaim. He continues to create music that is honest, relatable, and deeply personal, solidifying his position as a rising star in the indie pop genre
Songs that deserve their own chapters (underrated artists)
Cat Power began her musical career in the early 1990s, releasing her first album, "Dear Sir," in 1995. She gained critical acclaim with her third album, "Moon Pix," released in 1998, which featured a stripped-down sound and introspective lyrics.
Over the years, Cat Power's music has evolved, incorporating elements of folk, blues, and indie rock. Her 2006 album, "The Greatest," marked a departure from her earlier work, featuring a more polished and soulful sound inspired by Southern soul music.
Cat Power's lyrics often touch on themes of love, loss, and identity, reflecting her own struggles with mental health issues and personal challenges. Her music is known for its raw emotion and honesty, resonating with a diverse audience of listeners.
Frankie Cosmos' music is characterized by its intimate, introspective lyrics and catchy melodies. Kline's songs often explore themes of love, relationships, and everyday life, delivered with a sincerity and vulnerability that resonates with listeners.
Frankie Cosmos gained a following through her Bandcamp page, where she released numerous albums often recording and producing the music herself. Her early releases, such as "Zentropy" (2014) and "Next Thing" (2016), garnered critical acclaim for their DIY charm and Kline's distinctive songwriting style.
In addition to her solo work as Frankie Cosmos, Kline has collaborated with other artists and musicians, further expanding her musical palette. She has toured extensively, both as a solo artist and with a band, earning a reputation for her engaging live performances and heartfelt storytelling.
Frankie Cosmos' music has evolved over the years, incorporating more polished production and a fuller sound while still retaining its intimate, lo-fi charm. Kline's lyrics continue to resonate with a growing audience, making her a beloved figure in the indie music scene.
The Dodos are an American indie rock band formed in San Francisco, California, in 2005. The Dodos are known for their unique and intricate blend of folk, indie rock, and experimental music, characterized by Long's intricate guitar work.
The Dodos gained critical acclaim with their second album, "Visiter," released in 2008. The album featured the single "Fools," and received praise for its innovative sound and complex songwriting. The Dodos' music is known for its energetic rhythms, complex arrangements, and thoughtful lyrics, often exploring themes of nature, human connection, and personal introspection.
Over the years, The Dodos have released several more albums, including "Time to Die" (2009), "No Color" (2011), and "Carrier" (2013). Each album has showcased the band's evolving sound and musical experimentation, while still maintaining their signature style.
The Dodos are also known for their dynamic live performances, which often feature extended improvisations and a high level of musicianship.
Timothy Edward Carpenter is a singer-songwriter from Nashville, Tennessee. Known for his descriptive lyrical storytelling and heartfelt melodies, Carpenter's songs are sure to elicit feelings of nostalgia and honest introspection
.jpeg)
We Were Promised Jetpacks is a Scottish indie rock band formed in Edinburgh in 2003. The band consists of Adam Thompson (vocals, guitar), Michael Palmer (guitar), Sean Smith (bass), and Darren Lackie (drums).
We Were Promised Jetpacks gained attention with their debut album, "These Four Walls," released in 2009. The album received critical acclaim for its energetic sound, emotive lyrics, and the band's powerful live performances. Songs like "Quiet Little Voices" and "Keeping Warm" became fan favorites and helped establish the band's reputation as one of the rising stars of the indie rock scene.
The band's sound is characterized by anthemic choruses, driving rhythms, and Thompson's distinctive vocals, which range from soft and introspective to intense and passionate. They are known for their dynamic live shows, which often feature intense and energetic performances.
Since their debut, We Were Promised Jetpacks have released several more albums, including "In the Pit of the Stomach" (2011), "Unravelling" (2014), and "The More I Sleep the Less I Dream" (2018). Each album has showcased the band's growth and maturity as songwriters, while still retaining their signature sound.
Overall, We Were Promised Jetpacks have established themselves as one of the leading bands in the indie rock genre, known for their powerful and emotive music. They continue to tour and record music, captivating audiences with their passionate performances and heartfelt lyrics.
The Wasia Project was formed in 2019 by siblings Will Gao and Olivia Hardy. Their mixed British-East Asian heritage and classical training inspired them to write songs which encorporate a diverse mix of genres including Jazz, Bedroom pop and Classical.
Saint Motel is an American indie pop band from Los Angeles, California, consisting of A/J Jackson (lead vocals, guitar), Aaron Sharp (lead guitar), Dak Lerdamornpong (bass), and Greg Erwin (drums). The band is known for their catchy, upbeat songs, retro-inspired sound, and energetic live performances.
Saint Motel gained attention with their EP "ForPlay" in 2009, followed by their debut album "Voyeur" in 2012. The band's music is characterized by its infectious hooks, quirky lyrics, and eclectic blend of indie rock, pop, and funk influences.
One of Saint Motel's most popular songs is "My Type," released in 2014, which features a horn section and a danceable groove. The song helped the band gain a wider audience and has been featured in commercials, TV shows, and movies.
Saint Motel has continued to release music and tour extensively, building a dedicated fan base with their lively performances and catchy tunes. Their music videos are often visually striking and inventive, reflecting the band's creative approach to their art.
Chumbawamba was a British band formed in 1982 in Burnley, England. The band was known for their eclectic mix of punk, pop, and folk music, as well as their politically charged lyrics and activism.
Chumbawamba gained international fame with their 1997 hit single "Tubthumping" from the album "Tubthumper." The song's catchy chorus and anthemic nature propelled it to the top of the charts in several countries and made it a staple of radio playlists.
Despite their mainstream success with "Tubthumping," Chumbawamba was known for their independent and anti-establishment characterstics. They were active in various social and political causes, including anarchism, anti-fascism, and environmentalism, and their music often reflected these themes.
Chumbawamba's musical style was diverse, incorporating elements of punk, pop, folk, and electronic music. They were known for their energetic live performances and their willingness to experiment with different sounds and genres.
Over the years, Chumbawamba released over 15 albums and EPs, exploring a wide range of musical styles and lyrical themes. The band officially disbanded in 2012, but their music and activism continue to inspire fans and artists around the world.
How do I stop myself?
Of Monsters and Men gained international fame with their debut album, "My Head Is an Animal," released in 2011. The album featured the hit singles "Little Talks," "King and Lionheart," and "Mountain Sound," and received critical acclaim for its catchy melodies, anthemic choruses, and folk-inspired sound.
The band's music is characterized by its lush instrumentation, soaring harmonies, and evocative lyrics, often drawing inspiration from Icelandic folklore and nature. Their sound has been compared to that of bands like Mumford & Sons and The Lumineers, but with a distinctly Icelandic twist.
Since their debut, Of Monsters and Men have released several more albums, including "Beneath the Skin" (2015) and "Fever Dream" (2019). Each album has showcased the band's growth and maturity as songwriters, while still retaining their signature sound.
Of Monsters and Men are known for their captivating live performances, which often feature elaborate stage setups and a sense of theatricality. They have toured extensively, performing at major music festivals around the world and building a dedicated fan base.
Overall, Of Monsters and Men have established themselves as one of the leading bands in the indie folk genre, known for their heartfelt music and dynamic live shows
Lord Huron's music is characterized by its atmospheric soundscapes, rich harmonies, and evocative lyrics, often drawing inspiration from nature, mythology, and the American West. The band's sound has been described as cinematic and immersive, with a dreamy quality that transports listeners to another world.
Lord Huron gained widespread acclaim with their debut album, "Lonesome Dreams," released in 2012. The album featured the singles "Ends of the Earth" and "Time to Run," and received praise for its lush production and adventurous songwriting.
The band's second album, "Strange Trails," was released in 2015 and further solidified their reputation as one of the leading bands in the indie folk genre. The album featured the singles "The Night We Met" and "Fool for Love," and continued to showcase Lord Huron's unique blend of storytelling and musicality.
Lord Huron's music has been featured in various films, TV shows, and commercials, contributing to their growing popularity. The band is also known for their visually stunning live performances, which often incorporate elaborate set designs and lighting effects.
Florence + the Machine is an English indie rock band formed in London in 2007. The band consists of lead vocalist Florence Welch, keyboardist Isabella Summers, and a collaboration of other musicians. The band's music is known for its dramatic and powerful sound, characterized by Welch's soulful vocals and the band's lush, orchestral arrangements.
Florence + the Machine gained widespread acclaim with their debut album, "Lungs," released in 2009. The album featured the hit singles "Dog Days Are Over," "You've Got the Love," and "Cosmic Love," and received critical praise for its bold, anthemic sound and Welch's emotive vocals.
The band's second album, "Ceremonials," was released in 2011 and further solidified their reputation as one of the leading acts in indie rock. The album featured the singles "Shake It Out" and "No Light, No Light," and continued to showcase the band's dramatic, orchestral sound.
Subsequent albums, including "How Big, How Blue, How Beautiful" (2015) and "High as Hope" (2018), have continued to explore themes of love, loss, and personal growth, while further showcasing Welch's powerful vocals and the band's dynamic sound.
Florence + the Machine are also known for their energetic and captivating live performances, with Welch's charismatic stage presence and distinctive fashion sense adding to their appeal. They have toured extensively around the world, performing at major music festivals and selling out arenas.
M83 is a French electronic music project formed in 2001 by Anthony Gonzalez and Nicolas Fromageau. The band's name is derived from the spiral galaxy Messier 83. Originally a duo, M83 became a solo project for Gonzalez after Fromageau's departure in 2004.
M83's music is characterized by its dreamy, atmospheric soundscapes, lush synthesizers, and soaring melodies. The band's early albums, such as "Dead Cities, Red Seas & Lost Ghosts" (2003) and "Before the Dawn Heals Us" (2005), blended elements of shoegaze, post-rock, and electronic music, creating a unique and ethereal sound.
M83 gained international acclaim with their fifth studio album, "Hurry Up, We're Dreaming," released in 2011. The album featured the hit single "Midnight City," which became a commercial success and propelled the band to mainstream fame. "Hurry Up, We're Dreaming" received critical acclaim for its expansive sound and emotional depth, earning M83 a Grammy nomination for Best Alternative Music Album.
Since then, M83 has released several more albums, including "Junk" (2016) and "DSVII" (2019), which have continued to explore new sonic territories while maintaining the band's signature dreamy sound.
M83's music has been featured in various films, TV shows, and commercials, further expanding their audience and influence. Anthony Gonzalez's ambitious approach to music production and his knack for creating immersive soundscapes have solidified M83's reputation as one of the leading acts in electronic music.
.jpeg)
.jpeg)
Capital Cities gained international fame with their hit single "Safe and Sound," released in 2011. The song's infectious melody, catchy chorus, and upbeat production helped it become a commercial success and a radio staple. "Safe and Sound" was included on their debut album, "In a Tidal Wave of Mystery," released in 2013.
The duo's music is known for its blend of electronic, pop, and indie rock influences, as well as its positive and uplifting lyrics. Capital Cities' songs often feature a mix of live instrumentation and electronic production, creating a sound that is both organic and modern.
Since their debut, Capital Cities has released several more singles and EPs, including "Kangaroo Court" and "One Minute More," which have further showcased their eclectic style and catchy hooks. The duo continues to tour and perform, captivating audiences with their energetic live shows and infectious pop anthems.
Overall, Capital Cities has established themselves as one of the leading acts in the indie pop scene, known for their innovative sound and positive vibes.
Kiki Rockwell
''A favorite technique of hers is to retell well known tales, myths and folklore through the eyes of the lesser known narrator. Whether it’s Persephone insisting she chose to enter the underworld on her own accord , or the witches of Salem claiming back their power, she strives to transport the listener to another time and place''.
.jpeg)
Wolf Alice is a British alternative rock band formed in London in 2010. The band consists of Ellie Rowsell (vocals, guitar), Joff Oddie (guitar, vocals), Theo Ellis (bass), and Joel Amey (drums, vocals). Wolf Alice's music is known for its eclectic and dynamic sound, blending elements of indie rock, folk, grunge, and shoegaze.
The band gained attention with their early EPs, including "Blush" (2013) and "Creature Songs" (2014), which showcased their diverse musical influences and Rowsell's haunting vocals. Wolf Alice's debut album, "My Love Is Cool," was released in 2015 to critical acclaim, featuring the singles "Bros," "Giant Peach," and "Moaning Lisa Smile."
Wolf Alice's sound continued to evolve on their second album, "Visions of a Life," released in 2017. The album won the Mercury Prize for Album of the Year and further solidified the band's reputation as one of the most exciting acts in British rock music. The album featured the singles "Don't Delete the Kisses" and "Beautifully Unconventional."
In 2021, Wolf Alice released their third album, "Blue Weekend," which received widespread acclaim and earned them their first Grammy nomination for Best Rock Performance for the song "The Last Man on Earth."
Wolf Alice is known for their dynamic live performances, which range from intimate acoustic sets to energetic rock shows.
Ricky Montgomery is an American singer-songwriter and musician known for his indie folk-pop sound and introspective lyrics. Born on April 3, 1993, Montgomery first gained attention through his YouTube channel, where he uploaded covers and original songs.
Montgomery released his debut EP, "Caught on the Moon," in 2016, which featured the popular track "Line Without a Hook." The song gained viral success on TikTok in 2020, propelling Montgomery to wider recognition and earning him a dedicated fan base.
In 2020, Montgomery released his debut studio album, "Montgomery Ricky," which received critical acclaim for its heartfelt lyrics, lush instrumentation, and Montgomery's emotive vocals. The album showcased Montgomery's talent for crafting intimate and relatable songs that resonate with listeners.
Montgomery's music is characterized by its emotional depth and vulnerability, with lyrics that explore themes of love, loss, and self-discovery. His voice is often described as soulful and expressive, drawing listeners in with its warmth and sincerity.
In addition to his solo work, Montgomery is also a member of the indie pop band The Honeysticks. He continues to create music that connects with audiences on a personal level, solidifying his reputation as a rising star in the indie music scene.
.jpeg)