What’s the Alternative? III – Part 1

Rock grew bigger in the ‘60s and by the ‘70s was too big and so punk came along and tried to destroy the bloated, drug riddled carcass rock had become and start from scratch- or at least return rock to its primitive origins. Punk didn’t last long and from its ashes bubbled up such unassuming bands as R.E.M., the Smiths, and the Replacements- Gen X children like me, mostly, who didn’t want to wear tight leather pants and play 20 minute guitar solos and who might have fit in better had they formed in the mid-‘60s. Indie/Alternative music (or college radio as it was known when I was a lad) continued to gain adherents and by the ‘90s eventually reached the mainstream. Here are some of my favorite indie/alternative songs including ‘80s alternative, post-modern pop, ‘90s alternative, lo-fi, and chamber pop. Enjoy!

Stephen Malkmus

01. The Divine Comedy – “Our Mutual Friend” (2004)

02. The Divine Comedy – “Have You Ever Been in Love” (2010)

03. The Go! Team – “Everyone’s a V.I.P. to Someone” (2004)

04. The Magnetic Fields – “All My Little Words” (1999)

05. The Replacements – “Darlin’ One (Bearsville Version)” (1988) 

06. Dinosaur Jr. – “We’re Not Alone” (2007)

07. Migala – “Fade into You” (1997)

08. Stephen Malkmus – “Freeze the Saints” (2005)

09. R.E.M. – “Green Grow the Rushes” (1985)

10. Smashing Pumpkins – “Disarm” (1993)

11. Pavement – “Here” (1992)

12. The Mountain Goats – “Love Love Love” (2005)

R.E.M.

Listen to the playlist on Spotify...