Alternative and indie are two terms often bandied about, with little clear-cut distinction between them.
At first, “alternative music” referred to music that did not follow mainstream formulas; however, as bands like Nirvana became part of mainstream culture indirectly through mainstream radio stations or recordings, its definition changed over time.
Origins
Alternative music can be thought of as an umbrella term that encompasses multiple genres. First coined in the late ’80s and ’90s, alternative refers to any rock music that deviates from mainstream trends – it emphasizes creativity, experimentation and independence while often taking influence from punk rock as well as new wave or post-punk.
Alternative rock has since become an identifiable musical genre. Beginning in the 80s and early 90s, alternative music began its ascension as an independent genre. Many bands chose not to sign with major record labels in favor of using DIY tactics that allow more creative freedom and authenticity in performance. This trend helped drive its rise as an independent genre.
Beginning as guitar-driven melodies with supporting bass and drum sounds, alternative music was initially defined by its guitar-driven melodies and accompanying bass and drum sounds. With lyrics that expressed disillusionment among young teenagers and high energy performances that appealed to this generation of listeners, alternative music became the soundtrack of an antisocial youth generation while creating a counterculture against mainstream values of its time.
Later on, alternative rock began to evolve with more diverse influences such as grunge, britpop and gothic rock becoming more prominent. At its core however, alternative music remains defined by its experimental nature and lack of commercial appeal.
Though often associated with youth culture, punk music’s roots run deep. Hardcore punk’s debut in the late 1970s and early 1980s marked an important turning point for music, as it introduced an alternative form of expression: Punk evolved from art rock, krautrock, and new wave, eventually merging together to become what we know today as alternative.
Nowadays, alternative music and indie rock are frequently used interchangeably; however, their definitions vary slightly. Alternative music encompasses everything from garage rock to punk to psychedelic folk; whereas Indie rock refers to independent music that may not get much airplay on major radio stations.
Influences
Alternative rock is characterized by bands who draw inspiration from various musical genres and styles, including punk, post-punk and indie rock. Indie rock music embodies independence and experimentation while drawing its influence from pop culture such as fashion, art and countercultural movements – it represents an identity-seeking generation.
Nirvana’s release of “Smells Like Teen Spirit” propelled indie rock into mainstream consciousness during the early ’90s and inspired an entirely new wave of do-it-yourself bands to emerge. Indie rock has had a profound influence on contemporary music trends; unlike mainstream pop, indie rock frequently incorporates lyrics addressing social issues while advocating peace and equality. Furthermore, indie rock stands out as being more than just music genre; it celebrates creativity and individualism as much as being simply music genre.
Indie rock as a musical movement stands out from the pack due to its distinct sound that defies categorization. The genre can be recognized by its use of distorted guitars and catchy melodies; its DIY aesthetic can be found both on its album covers and videos; this genre boasts an avid following around the world.
Indie rock has evolved considerably over time while staying true to its initial ethos of independence and experimentation, giving rise to numerous genres like garage music, post-punk, emo music and electronica/jazz music as influences. Indie rock stands out for its varied sounds that appeal to different audiences.
As indie rock has gained in popularity, its definition has become increasingly difficult. While some bands produce their music independently or with help from record labels, others have achieved success through record label assistance and now use “indie” to describe any artist that makes music outside of mainstream audiences – although critics argue this term has become too commercialized.
Styles
Alternative music comes in many different styles, with some standing out above others: jangle-pop, post-hardcore punk, post-metal and funk metal being among them. Although some of these genres made their way to mainstream audiences after Nirvana made headlines in the ’90s, most bands chose to remain independent while maintaining their idiosyncratic styles – leading them to be labeled “indie.” This label stuck.
“C86 movement” refers to an aesthetic characterized by a relaxed, do-it-yourself approach and preference for non-mainstream recording companies. Furthermore, this term has come to symbolize its characteristic guitar riffs with no sexual undertones – which have come to define this movement.
In the 1980s, alternative rock became increasingly popular with young people who desired something outside the mainstream music of that era. Many alternative bands made their mark within the industry and college radio helped spread their music. Some were signed by major labels while most chose not to cross over into mainstream popularity and remain independent acts.
Indie rock is an eclectic genre that encompasses various sounds ranging from garage to psychedelic. Additionally, this musical style can also feature experimental or gritty, raw sounds. Influences from other genres, such as hip hop, rock and classical music often influence its sound as well.
Acclaimed indie rock bands include Arcade Fire, Modest Mouse and Vampire Weekend; each are considered pioneers of their respective genre. These bands are widely recognized for their powerful lyrics and unconventional styles – not to mention being known for being experimental as well as telling a narrative through music.
Some of these bands also qualify as indie pop, a combination of pop music and indie rock genres that is increasingly popular. Similar to alternative pop but with more mature lyrics and instrumentation; indie pop has gained widespread recognition thanks to artists such as The Fratellis, Kooks and Snow Patrol who use this term.
Trends
Music has evolved significantly over time. It can be traced back to the punk rock movement that took place during the late ’70s as its foundation. From there it spawned additional non-mainstream genres such as new wave and post punk that eventually formed what we now refer to as alternative music.
Alternative music stands apart from mainstream rock in its unique sound and message. Characterized by distorted guitars and daring lyrics that address social issues, Rage Against the Machine and Nirvana were among its pioneers; later in the 1990s alternative bands made the crossover into mainstream with songs like “Smells Like Teen Spirit.” Today many of these independent artists continue creating music while staying true to their roots.
Alternative music has seen its popularity soar as streaming platforms democratise production of music. Genre-bending and experimental fusions of sounds have become increasingly common on streaming platforms, inspiring genre-mash-ups like My Chemical Romance’s and Fall Out Boy’s signature emo style fusion. This trend may give rise to non-mainstream artists that tackle social issues through lyrics while exploring musical forms beyond mainstream consumption.
Indie rock has recently emerged as an exciting form of alternative music. Indie bands are well known for their introspective lyrics that explore themes like heartbreak, depression, and anxiety – popular with young people worldwide and leading to subgenres such as emo rock, slacker rock, and slowcore music genres.
Alternative music’s future looks bright. Over its development, its diversity has expanded alongside an appreciation of authentic, unoverproduced and unfiltered songs that make an impactful statement about life and reality. Alternative’s appeal lies largely with its accessibility; appealing to an expansive variety of listeners with raw and honest lyrics that resonate deeply.