Recommended Western alternative rock bands that connect to the modern rock scene
In the 1980s, rock music gained a vast audience, and at the same time a mainstream industry took shape.
Meanwhile, as various genres emerged and branched out, the media introduced a category defined as “rock that didn’t fit the existing mold”: alternative rock.
This time, while tracing the roots of alternative rock, we’re also focusing on the musicians who went on to lead the scene.
Be sure to check it out.
Top 10 recommended alternative rock bands from overseas that connect to the modern rock scene
Best Of YouFoo Fighters
This is a track from the 5th album released in 2005 by the band fronted by former Nirvana drummer Dave Grohl, In Your Honor.
Maybe it’s because the music video left such a strong impression, but the song has an intensely masculine vibe—almost stiflingly so.
It’s a straightforward, powerful rock number, yet the guitar somehow comes across as cool and composed.
Buddy HollyWeezer
Weezer is an American band led by Rivers Cuomo.
This is a track from their 1994 album.
The thick, distorted guitar sound—evoking the strength of a vulnerable person—is addictive.
Maybe it feels quintessentially alternative because of the era, but I think the lo-fi sound is also one of the major influences.
There’s No Other WayBlur
A track from Leisure, the debut album by Blur, one of the quintessential British bands of the ’90s.
With wah-infused guitar, it has a Madchester-influenced vibe.
Although Blur wouldn’t gain broader support until a few years after this album, this song still seems to get the crowd going when played live today.
CreepRadiohead
Released in 1992, Radiohead’s song “Creep” is a quintessential piece of alternative rock—practically worthy of an Alt-Rock Hall of Fame.
The tone is introspective and dark, with a heavy, overcast mood.
There’s a sparsely sung vocal over wavering guitar effects, and above all, the explosive distorted guitars and screamed vocals in the chorus define the song’s identity.
Despite its distinctive sound, it somehow connects with the emotions buried deep inside, which I think is the true allure of alternative rock.
Get FreeThe Vines
A song by The Vines, an Australian band once described as “Nirvana meets The Beatles.” This one falls on the Nirvana side: distorted guitars, quiet moments that suddenly erupt into shouts—an intense track.
Since it’s from their debut album, you might sense a kind of primal, early impulse—almost a violent energy.
Radio Free EuropeR.E.M.
R.
E.
M.
, a band said to have been the starting point of alternative rock.
This is the first track from their debut album, Murmur.
It begins with an ominous noise as if something is about to begin, followed by edgy playing and enigmatic lyrics.
Live ForeverOasis
Oasis, legends of UK rock.
They too emerged in the ’90s and rose to the top.
Their song “Live Forever” is a brilliant, classic masterpiece in the history of British rock.
In interviews, they’ve said that behind the creation of this track was the presence of Nirvana, the grunge/alternative rock band that was gaining worldwide popularity at the same time.
And as an alternative rock band themselves, Oasis created “Live Forever,” a supremely uplifting, life-affirming number that took the opposite path from Nirvana at the time.