[For Beginners] Popular Post-Rock Songs in Western Music: A Curated List of Recommended Classics
Though the definition of the genre known as post-rock is ambiguous, it garnered worldwide attention as experimental music that goes beyond the conventional framework of rock.
While its instrumentation—guitars, drums, and so on—often mirrors that of a rock band, its distinctive soundscapes and structures give it a cinematic expansiveness, much like a film soundtrack, and many bands make bold use of electronics as well.
In this article, we present works that will broaden your musical horizons, focusing on popular and classic tracks by representative bands from the 1990s to 2000s—the period when the genre truly spread—even as many bands continue to adopt post-rock approaches today.
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[For Beginners] Popular Post-Rock Songs in Western Music: A Curated List of Recommended Classics (21–30)
YasharCabaret Voltaire
This is a track that expresses the world of post-rock, brimming with tension and a mysterious allure.
Its progression guides listeners into a unique sonic landscape, dotted with unpredictable elements that spark curiosity.
As chilly atmospheres intersect with warm, evocative melodies, a spine-straightening rhythm keeps your ears on edge.
Released in February 1988, this work blends exotic and modern sounds, urging a venture into new musical exploration.
It’s a song packed with the charm of Cabaret Voltaire—why not give it a listen?
Dracula MountainLightning Bolt
This is a signature track by Lightning Bolt, exploding with a thunderous roar like the peal of noise rock.
It appears on the album Wonderful Rainbow, released in March 2003, and stands out for its distinctive rhythms and melodies.
Its allure lies in the contrast between overwhelming sonic pressure and delicate textures, drawing listeners into another dimension.
Brian Chippendale’s ferocious drumming and Brian Gibson’s rhythmic bass match exquisitely to create an inventive sound.
The album has received high acclaim, including being selected by Pitchfork as one of the top 200 albums of the 2000s.
It’s a track that fully showcases Lightning Bolt’s musicality and is highly recommended for post-rock fans.
Backtail Was HeavyLone
It’s been making waves as an innovative track that opens up a new frontier for post-rock.
Glittering yet meticulously arranged electronic sounds blend exquisitely with elements of hip-hop.
Its fresh sound design, unbound by conventional guitar tones, seems to be captivating not only post-rock aficionados but a wide range of music fans.
Released in May 2016, the track’s allure lies in its exquisite balance of buoyant atmosphere and rhythmic drive, inviting listeners into an unknown soundscape.
While the unexpected twists may surprise you, you’ll gradually find yourself hooked on its comfort—an experience that has earned high praise from many music lovers.
MountainsMessage to Bears
Released in January 2012, this Message to Bears album captivates with a sound that feels almost haunted.
It carries a quiet charm influenced by Bon Iver and works well as an introduction to post-rock.
It’s ideal for listeners who enjoy Mogwai’s softer tracks, perfect for relaxing or for moments of introspection.
Gentle melodies and sounds that evoke beautiful mountain landscapes envelop the listener.
Why not immerse yourself in this soothing musical world? Highly recommended for those who want something calm or who enjoy imagining natural scenery while listening to music.
IVBadbadnotgood
This album lets you fully immerse yourself in the musical world of BADBADNOTGOOD, the instrumental band from Canada.
Effortlessly crossing the boundary between jazz and hip-hop, it offers a fresh listening experience through collaborations with a diverse range of guest artists.
Released in July 2016, the record reached No.
1 on the US Jazz Albums chart.
Packed with tracks that resonate deeply—like Time Moves Slow, whose gritty vocals and profound emotional expression stir the soul—it’s a compelling listen.
Inspired by ’70s jazz-rock yet reimagined with a contemporary sensibility, the group’s distinctive sound is recommended not only for jazz fans but also for anyone curious about new music.
Sink into its pleasant afterglow and create a personal soundscape of your own.
Money Rain DownBig Black Delta
Big Black Delta’s music has the power to captivate you the moment you hear it.
The exquisite balance of rhythm and melody gives the entire track a vibrant finish.
The vivid sound and meticulous construction clearly show why this genre is praised by listeners around the world.
This piece is included on the 2013 album TRST.
It’s a moving track that I can recommend even to those new to post-rock.
It’s perfect for drives or moments when you need a boost, so add it to your playlist and dive into the world of post-rock.
Kill ToneOdd Nosdam
Known as a masterpiece of instrumental hip-hop, this work was released in August 2007 and is included on the album LEVEL LIVE WIRES.
Odd Nosdam’s distinctive soundscapes are captivating, leading listeners into an intense emotional experience.
The lyrics, themed around pain and suffering, evoke powerful imagery.
A 10th-anniversary remastered edition was released in September 2017, earning high praise from many media outlets, including AllMusic and Pitchfork.
Highly recommended for those looking to break new ground through music.
You’ll surely be drawn into its unique world where hip-hop rhythms fuse with elements of post-rock.