[Foreign Music] A Guide to Post-Rock: Essential Classics and a Recommended Pick
Post-rock is a music genre that expresses itself through a variety of ideas and experimental approaches, differing from the conventional methodology of rock.
The definition is quite vague and there are many subgenres, but there are plenty of bands and artists within the umbrella of post-rock who have achieved global success, and here in Japan as well, many have been influenced by post-rock’s methods.
In this article, we’ll introduce a selection of essential albums—perfect as a “start here” for Western music fans who’ve recently become interested in post-rock.
The lineup focuses mainly on albums from the 1990s to the 2000s, the peak era of post-rock, so be sure to check them out!
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[Western Music] A Guide to Post-Rock: Essential Classics and One Recommended Album (41–50)
CamoufleurGastr del Sol
A world of post-rock where heterogeneous soundscapes unfold.
Among them, Gastr del Sol’s classic Camoufleur radiates a singular presence.
Its meditative soundscape—deftly weaving elements of folk, jazz, and film music—quietly stirs the listener’s heart.
Since its 1998 release, this work has continued to receive high praise from critics and is indelibly etched into the history of post-rock.
While pursuing musical experimentation, it never sacrifices accessibility, making it perfect for those seeking a new musical experience.
It’s especially recommended for quiet nights or a calm, leisurely afternoon.
Sounds of the SatellitesLaika
An album by Laika that creates a unique soundscape with beautiful music fusing lyrical electronica and post-rock.
Heavy bass, gurgling electronics, and moody melodies are exquisitely blended, and the songs—sung with Margaret Fiedler’s resonant low register—captivate the listener.
Released in February 1997 on the Too Pure label, this work incorporates elements of drum’n’bass and trip hop into its experimental approach, bringing a fresh breeze to the post-rock scene of the time.
Highly recommended for those who want to immerse themselves in a dreamlike sonic world or seek a musical experience that transcends the boundaries of conventional rock.
GoneM83
A track by the French electronic group M83.
It is included on their second album, Dead Cities, Red Seas & Lost Ghosts, released in 2003.
It was sampled in Dawn Wall’s 2016 track “Ember.”
Neu! ’75Neu!
Neu!, known as pioneers of Krautrock, released the album “Neu! ’75” in 1975—one of the masterpieces that laid the groundwork for post-rock.
The contrast between the melodic tracks in the first half and the experimental sounds in the latter half—born from the differing musical sensibilities of Michael Rother and Klaus Dinger—is especially compelling.
In particular, “Hero” is considered a proto-punk forerunner that influenced the Sex Pistols and David Bowie.
This work is recommended for those seeking new musical expression beyond the confines of traditional rock.
If you’re interested in Krautrock or post-rock, you should definitely give it a listen.
The Eye of Every StormNeurosis
A track that explores deep introspection and the cyclical nature of life, showcasing the evolution of Neurosis’s musicality.
Its grand structure shifts from calm to intensity and back to calm again, powerfully stirring the listener.
Featured on the album The Eye of Every Storm, released in June 2004, this piece fully realizes the band’s transformation toward a more restrained sound.
It’s a must-listen for Western music fans who enjoy post-rock and metal.
Best experienced alone during a quiet moment, though its length may demand patience—but that patience will surely be rewarded.
The Flowers of RomancePublic Image Ltd
The album The Flowers of Romance, released in April 1981 by post-punk icon Public Image Ltd, is characterized by its experimental sound and abstract lyrics.
Created by John Lydon and Keith Levene, the work’s lyrics symbolically express the complexity of human relationships and shifts in perspective, leaving room for listeners’ interpretation.
The single from the album was released in March 1981 and reached No.
24 on the UK chart.
It has been reissued multiple times since and continues to be regarded as a post-punk classic.
Highly recommended for those seeking new forms of musical expression.
Water From the Same SourceRachel’s
Rachel’s is a chamber music group from Kentucky that was active from 1991 to 2012.
This track is included on their fifth album, Systems/Layers, released in 2003.
It was used in the films Hancock and The Great Beauty.