These pop alternative indie songs will bring some much-needed brightness into your day.
Indie music often conveys powerful messages about social justice, environmentalalism, and equality to Gen Z audiences that resonate strongly with them and encourage them to take initiative for change themselves – such as Mac DeMarco, Arctic Monkeys and Two Door Cinema Club as prime examples.
Float On by Modest Mouse
“Float On” by Modest Mouse has quickly become one of their signature indie rock anthems, inspiring listeners around the globe with its infectiously catchy melodies and inspiring messages of optimism and resilience. Featuring driving guitars, buoyant percussion, and Isaac Brock’s distinctive vocals – its upbeat arrangement resonates with audiences worldwide as its message encourages people to embrace life’s unexpected challenges with open arms.
Though Modest Mouse has undergone various lineup changes throughout their years together, they have remained true to their vision and mission. Their quirky personality and DIY spirit has won them numerous fans while their work has inspired countless musicians to experiment with new sounds and push boundaries in their music; many have even cited Modest Mouse as a major source of influence in their own work.
Modest Mouse have quickly become one of the go-to indie rock acts thanks to their quirky lyrics and unique sound, earning them widespread renown among listeners of indie rock music. Their first two albums proved critical successes that garnered them an avid following; but their third effort, Good News for People Who Love Bad News, really catapulted them into mainstream popularity – its title track became an indie radio favorite while its catchy melody and relatable lyrics garnered them widespread appreciation from audiences around the globe.
Modest Mouse have consistently produced hits since their debut. Their latest album, We Were Dead Before the Ship Even Sank, marks a return to their early, weirdo glory and has garnered critical acclaim as a genre-defining record that established them as premier indie rock group. Its lush instrumentation and emotive vocals resonated with audiences worldwide while its lead single Your Ex-Lover Is Dead’s music video garnered widespread acclaim due to its cinematic storytelling and emotional impact.
New Slang by The Shins
New Slang by The Shins is one of the most iconic pop alternative indie songs ever recorded. The band from Albuquerque, New Mexico first became famous with their 1998 release Oh, Inverted World featuring “New Slang.” They quickly rose to stardom under lead vocalist James Mercer’s direction as they released albums throughout this decade and ultimately becoming one of the largest bands around at that time.
The Shins began as a home recording side project for Mercer in the early 1990s. Once they caught Sub Pop cofounder Jonathan Poneman’s attention, however, recording and touring became their focus. Their music was fresh and unique, which resonated strongly with young listeners during an era where bands such as Nickelback were peddling derivative versions of grunge while radio rarely broadcast independent music.
In 2001, the band relocated from Albuquerque to Portland, Oregon and released their debut record Oh, Inverted World to critical acclaim. Their lead single “New Slang” even helped widen their fanbase when featured in Zach Braff’s film Garden State.
Mercer and his bandmates built on this success with two further albums: Chutes Too Narrow and Wincing the Night Away, touring heavily and becoming an internationally known name by 2004.
On this episode of the TSBTS Podcast, James Mercer joins us to talk about the history and meaning behind “New Slang.” Additionally, he addresses other Shins classics such as Phantom Limb and how touring musicians have inspired his writing. You can stream or download this full episode via iTunes – either way enjoy!
Smells Like Teen Spirit by Nirvana
One of the most beloved pop alternative indie artists is Nirvana, renowned for redefining what it meant to be an alternative rock band. Hailing from Seattle grunge music scene, their 1991 release Nevermind had an immense impact on modern music – taking raw authenticity of their peers with stellar writing and musical performance from Nirvana’s unique sound to usher in an exciting era for alternative rock.
Smells Like Teen Spirit was an unexpected smash hit when released as the lead single off Nevermind in 1987. Played heavily on college radio stations and modern rock stations across America, its success quickly shot up the charts – becoming their greatest ever hit and often considered to mark alternative rock’s mainstream entrance.
Though Teen Spirit became a massive commercial and critical success, its initial intention wasn’t to become such. Kurt Cobain wrote it after most of their record had already been completed with Krist Novoselic; one of their last recordings. Cobain later claimed it wasn’t meant as poetry with any real meaning behind it.
Although its history remains murky, Nirvana’s most influential song “Nevermind” stands the test of time as one of their signature works. From its haunting verses with wobbly guitar to dramatic and emotive choruses inspired many alternative rock artists who followed in its wake; to become legendary anthems for generations afterward. Additionally, this timeless tune remains one of rock history’s most recognized tracks and continues to have an influence today’s new music, still topping “best of” lists and inspiring rising stars striving towards similar success!
Say It Ain’t So by Weezer
Say It Ain’t So is an essential piece for guitar enthusiasts and is considered one of Weezer’s best songs, featuring an unforgettable guitar riff and catchy chorus. Written by Rivers Cuomo himself and released as their debut self-titled album (known as The Blue Album in 1994).
Cuomo’s lyrics for this Weezer hit were drawn from his experiences with his parents’ divorce and subsequent reconciliation. While not as commercially successful as its counterparts such as “Undone – The Sweater Song” and “Buddy Holly”, this fan favorite remains beloved among Weezer fans; many artists (such as The Jonas Brothers) have covered its tune, making it a staple in live performances by Weezer.
At a time when grunge dominated the music scene, Weezer stood out with their catchy melodies and clever lyrics. Their first album, widely considered one of the defining works of 1990s alternative rock music. Fans quickly nicknamed it “Blue Album”.
Three decades after its release, Weezer’s Blue Album has achieved near-mythical status within popular culture and continues to receive critical acclaim and new generations of music listeners alike. A classic example of their unique sound, helping shape alternative rock genre. “Say It Ain’t So” stands as an ideal demonstration of this. Additionally, its catchy guitar riff stands as one of many iconic examples from their distinct musical signature; Loudwire and Kerrang rank it highly among their top Weezer songs lists!
Mr. Brightside by The Killers
The Killers’ hit song Mr Brightside has left an indelible mark on culture. From parties and karaoke nights, to cover bands performing it live. Audiences love its infectious beats and relatable lyrics – making this alternative indie song one of the most beloved of all time!
Brandon Flowers wrote it when he was 20. Inspired by real-life experiences, its tale of a possessive lover-rival is combined with Dave Keuning’s instantly recognisable guitar riff and anthemic chorus to become one of the classic examples of indie rock genre.
While many breakout UK hits from rock acts quickly faded after landing a single in the top 10, this song stood the test of time, spending 408 weeks (more than seven years!) in the UK Official Chart before still finding new audiences via streaming services like Spotify.
Though driven primarily by streams, Rebel Diamonds remains one of the top selling singles worldwide in terms of sales alone. This achievement follows on the heels of The Killers’ most recent greatest hits compilation release earlier this year.
Songs that have endured for generations and remain beloved today are a true mark of great music’s longevity, but there are many other amazing tracks with similar energy as Mr Brightside that you might enjoy listening to as an alternative or nostalgic hit. We’ve handpicked these tunes that offer comparable energy and relatable lyrics – give them a listen and see if any strike your fancy!