[Western Music] Start with this one! Classic and popular songs of alternative rock

MapsYeah Yeah Yeahs

Yeah Yeah Yeahs – Maps (Official Music Video)

This is one of the Yeah Yeah Yeahs’ signature songs, known for its passionate vocals and electrifying guitar sound.

Singing of a love that is both fragile and powerful, the track appears on the 2003 album “Fever to Tell” and has captured the hearts of many listeners since its release.

Portraying the pain and conflicts of romance, it has been widely used in films and TV dramas and is beloved by a broad audience.

It’s a must-listen for anyone who has experienced heartbreak or unrequited love, or who can relate to the feeling of caring deeply for someone.

AfterlifeSharon Van Etten & The Attachment Theory

Sharon Van Etten & The Attachment Theory – Afterlife (Official Video)

A track has been born that features fantastical synthesizer timbres and striking electronic rhythms.

Created by Sharon Van Etten’s new project, “Sharon Van Etten & The Attachment Theory,” the piece explores philosophical themes such as the afterlife and the enduring nature of love.

Lyrics that depict a longing to reunite with a loved one and the complexity of human relationships resonate deeply with listeners.

Set to be included on the album “Sharon Van Etten & The Attachment Theory,” scheduled for release in February 2025, this track symbolizes Van Etten’s musical evolution.

It’s recommended for anyone who wants to reflect on life’s impermanence and the power of love.

SabotageBeastie Boys

Beastie Boys – Sabotage (Official Music Video)

The Beastie Boys are a legendary presence as a white hip-hop group, and they had a profound impact on the music scene across genres.

Their DIY approach was a culture in itself and constantly drew attention.

Originally coming from a punk band background, they pursued a sound that broke down the barriers between rock and hip-hop from early on.

Sabotage, included on their 1994 classic album Ill Communication, is a quintessential Beastie anthem where the dynamism of rock and punk is exquisitely blended with hip-hop groove.

Along with its legendary music video directed by Spike Jonze, it stands as a song that symbolizes the alternative spirit of the 1990s.

My HeroFoo Fighters

Foo Fighters – My Hero (Official HD Video)

After Kurt Cobain passed away in 1994, Dave Grohl, who had played drums in Nirvana, completed the songs he had been secretly working on almost entirely by himself and returned to the scene the following year as Foo Fighters.

They went on to become one of the defining American rock bands, and here we introduce a classic track from their breakthrough second album, The Colour and the Shape, released in 1997.

It opens with tight drumming and explodes into a dramatic, emotional melody—an affecting song that, interestingly, has been a favorite cover choice for emo bands since the 2000s.

As for who the “hero” in question refers to… if you’re curious, be sure to look into it!

MessyLola Young

Lola Young – Messy (Official Video)

This song vividly portrays emotional highs and lows and the struggle for self-acceptance.

Laura Young’s powerful vocals skillfully capture the turmoil of balancing societal expectations with one’s true self.

Released in May 2024, it went viral on TikTok and reached No.

1 on the UK Singles Chart in January 2025.

It was also performed on Jimmy Fallon’s popular talk show, drawing international attention.

It’s a track that resonates deeply with young people seeking their identity and with anyone navigating complicated relationships.

Black Hole SunSoundgarden

Soundgarden – Black Hole Sun

Like Nirvana, Soundgarden also hails from Seattle and pioneered a sound that made them a flagship band of grunge and alternative rock.

Formed in 1984, they released music on prestigious labels like Sub Pop and SST, and by 1989 had already made their major-label debut.

Their sound—anchored by Chris Cornell’s exceptional vocal range from soaring highs to deep lows, aggressive, weighty riffs driven by drop-D tuning, and a sinuous, pulsing groove—truly bridges heavy metal and alternative rock.

Listening to Soundgarden’s gem of a song “Black Hole Sun,” which highlights their more lyrical side, makes it clear that grunge and alternative aren’t just about loud, aggressive music.

Same Old SongThe Lumineers

The Lumineers – Same Old Song (Official Music Video)

A song that delves into the complex issues of modern society has arrived.

The Lumineers’ new track expresses personal struggles, social alienation, and a weariness with the repetitive patterns of life.

While looking back on the past, it also captures feelings of losing one’s grip on reality and emotional numbness, resulting in a deeply introspective work.

Released in January 2025 as a lead single from the album “Automatic,” the song blends folk influences with an energetic, repetitive rhythm.

It’s a highly recommended listen for anyone feeling worn out by everyday life or wanting to confront themselves.