Indie music refers to two things. Production and distribution, or it could describe an entire genre.
Musically, it can be challenging to determine what constitutes indie because the borders between genres can often be blurry. For instance, distinguishing rock from folk can often be challenging.
Grunge
Grunge music emerged in the late 1980s and early 1990s. A blend of punk, alternative rock and metal, it contrasted sharply with polished pop music of its time, as well as touching upon social issues such as depression, drug dependency and social isolation through emotional storytelling and working-class values that brought such hot-button topics into public discussion.
Grunge music genre has had an impressive effect on the industry despite its niche status. Its influence spans generations of artists, leading to new genres like post-punk. Grunge’s disillusioned sound captured the discontentment of an entire generation, inspiring many others to vent through music.
Grunge was coined by a Seattle record label in 1988 to describe the gritty music being created in Seattle at that time. Bands adamant about being genuine wore flannel shirts and combat boots while maintaining unwashed hair; many also used pawnshop guitars with earth tones in their visual imagery, which represented working-class values of Seattle and its surrounding area that were experiencing economic difficulties at that time. This aesthetic represented working class values which resonated throughout its city limits.
Bands in this genre usually feature a muddy sound with distorted guitars and voice distortion, often being compared to post-punk and punk bands. Although elements from other genres might also be included, these bands don’t conform to mainstream styles as such as not having catchy choruses or hooks that grab listeners’ attention like mainstream music does.
Indie music has evolved with society. Since streaming platforms exist, independent musicians have found it easier than ever before to produce and distribute their work – this has allowed them to produce appealing pieces that appeal to wider audiences while encouraging creative experimentation and experimentation with diverse musical styles. Moving forward, we can expect to witness even more eclectic fusions of styles. Furthermore, alternative/indie music may even improve cognitive performance – listening unfamiliar music stimulates both brain function and creativity and therefore provides entertainment as well.
Shoegaze
Shoegaze music uses hazy noise and dreamlike vocals to evoke an atmospheric experience, often described as an amalgam of post-punk, indie rock, psychedelic influences and disconnection to create its unique atmosphere. Shoegaze’s deep melancholic feel and disconnection makes it perfect for those seeking inward reflection and inner exploration.
Shogaze music first gained popularity during the late ’80s and has since become an established genre. Combining elements from pop and experimental noise music with lush guitar textures, dreamy vocals, and feedback. Influential bands include My Bloody Valentine and Jesus and Mary Chain; moreover, many modern artists have drawn influence from it, inspiring a whole new generation of musicians interested in shoegaze.
This genre’s sound harkens back to psychedelic rock movement of the 1960s, yet has grown increasingly popular over time. This type of music often deals with introspection and feelings of solitude – hence why fans love this form. Additionally, this style has inspired other musical genres such as indie rock and post-punk.
Curve’s debut LP was an astounding success and propelled them from indie-rockers to household names overnight. Influences ranged from Byrds-ian harmonies to the guitar-heavy melodies associated with grunge; their debut was an emblematic example of what 4AD stood for.
Ride’s Going Blank Again was an unprecedented commercial triumph for shoegazing. Fusing grunge’s discordant melodies with poppier sensibility, this record demonstrated how far its boundaries could expand into new territories.
Pale Saints’ 1992 release Comforts of Madness was an early homage to Cocteau Twins; while it never received as much notice or success, its harmonies and persistent atmospheric swirl remain influential today.
Post Punk
Post-Punk music stands out from its musical predecessors as an audacious rebellion to conventional musical conventions, combining raw energy and complexity with an audacious break from accepted musical standards. As a result, Post-Punk rock has inspired everything from dreamscapes to fuzzy guitars to an overwhelming wall of sound; bands like Joy Division have even adopted this style to explore darker introspective themes while simultaneously rebellious attitudes.
Post Punk music is defined by distinct guitar-based instrumentation, an off-kilter rhythm section, and lyrics which often discuss existentialist themes or depression. Post Punk also borrows elements from other genres – for instance trebly bass lines from industrial rock and synthesizer melodies from dance music are part of its sound.
Post-Punk has had a profound effect on modern culture and its meaning, inspiring everything from art to film, and its rebellious spirit is evident in many independent British films of that period. Additionally, Post-Punk is experiencing a resurgence of popularity among young rock fans; artists like The Cure and New Order continue to serve as powerful role models for young listeners of rock music.
Post-Punk music is widely known for its distinctive, angular guitarwork. Characterised by a snarling vocal delivery and off-kilter beats, its guitarstyle has been adopted by bands worldwide from American indie rock bands to acoustic singer-songwriters in Europe. Post-Punk has even had an effect on electronic music development; pioneers such as Throbbing Gristle demonstrated how this style could combine genre elements with avant-garde industrial sounds.
Shoegaze music blends the raw energy of punk with moody atmospherics and an acoustic sound, producing music characterized by subdued instrumentation but still conveying raw urgency. My Bloody Valentine and Slowdive are known for creating atmospheric yet introspective music which still maintains raw urgency despite less abrasive instrumentation; other contemporary artists, from Fontaines DC to Molchat Doma have also used Post-Punk influences; an illustration of its adaptability and legacy as evidenced by acts such as Interpol and Editors reigniting the genre today with new generations of listeners!
Indie Pop
Indie Pop, an offshoot of Post-Punk music, emerged through Orange Juice and Felt’s efforts to combine its harsher aspects with more melodic elements and jangly guitars for a softer and romantic sound, yet still maintain that DIY aesthetic. Furthermore, this genre also borrowed heavily from 1960s girl groups and power pop to broaden its appeal even more.
Indie Pop artists tend to embrace experimentation when it comes to genre and style exploration, contributing to the rich diversity of indie music. Olivia Rodriguo and Boygenius, for instance, mix their sounds to incorporate multiple genres – for instance using funk instruments along with guitars and drums from traditional indie acts like Four Tet, Caribou or Jamie xx – creating unique music that spans multiple styles.
Indie pop stands out from traditional pop by exploring themes other than love and party anthems in its lyrics, exploring issues not always romantic or sweet. Indie pop songs tend to explore artist desires, regrets, dreams and longings more authentically; their musical storytelling distinguishes it from standard pop songs.
Indie pop musicians differ from major label pop acts in that most often they write their songs themselves, giving their music a more authentic sound that has earned them loyal audiences. Their dedication and passion for their craft has allowed many indie pop acts like Lorde and Kendrick Lamar to break through into mainstream success.
Indie pop is a diverse musical landscape that encompasses everything from folk and country music to electronic acts and psychedelic rock. As such, its scope keeps expanding over time – its popularity even more so now thanks to streaming platforms, with artists like Lorde and MGMT becoming more well-known due to their albums’ success.