Alternative Music: Most Popular Articles
These articles are the most popular over the last month.
Top 10 Breakout Acts of 2009
From Passion Pit to the Pains of Being Pure at Heart, The XX to Girls, here are the 10 bands who came from out of nowhere to suddenly be everywhere in '09.
From Passion Pit to the Pains of Being Pure at Heart, The XX to Girls, here are the 10 bands who came from out of nowhere to suddenly be everywhere in '09.
Top 10 Albums of 2009 Thus Far
It's been a killer musical year so far: Animal Collective, Dirty Projectors, Grizzly Bear. He's the 10 best discs from January-to-June.
It's been a killer musical year so far: Animal Collective, Dirty Projectors, Grizzly Bear. He's the 10 best discs from January-to-June.
Upcoming Album Release Dates
Sort through the glut of new releases with this guide to the upcoming indie-music release schedule.
Sort through the glut of new releases with this guide to the upcoming indie-music release schedule.
10 Bands to Watch at CMJ 2009
From The Antlers to The XX, Broadcast to the Very Best, here's ten perfect picks from CMJ's sprawling slate of performers.
From The Antlers to The XX, Broadcast to the Very Best, here's ten perfect picks from CMJ's sprawling slate of performers.
Alt History - Kurt at VMAs
Back in 1992, what t-shirt you wore really mattered.
Back in 1992, what t-shirt you wore really mattered.
Top 10 Alt Starter Albums
The defining entries in any alternative record collection. The iconoclasts whose singular sound has shaped a whole generation of underground acts.
The defining entries in any alternative record collection. The iconoclasts whose singular sound has shaped a whole generation of underground acts.
Grizzly Bear Interview
Daniel Rossen talks his Elvis-obsessed childhood, mimicking Nick Drake, Department Of Eagle's dark songs, and the joyousness of 'Veckatimest'.
Daniel Rossen talks his Elvis-obsessed childhood, mimicking Nick Drake, Department Of Eagle's dark songs, and the joyousness of 'Veckatimest'.
Top 10 Twee Albums
The class releases that defined the growth of twee from tiny, self-contained English scene to global underground culture.
The class releases that defined the growth of twee from tiny, self-contained English scene to global underground culture.
Top 20 Albums of 2008
Let's count 'em down: the very best alternative and/or indie records of the year. Old favorites, new loves, strange surprises, unexpected treasures. The essential picks of the '08.
Let's count 'em down: the very best alternative and/or indie records of the year. Old favorites, new loves, strange surprises, unexpected treasures. The essential picks of the '08.
Top 10 Lo-Fi Albums
Home taping didn't kill music, it revolutionized it. Here's 10 classic home-made records committed straight to analogue tape.
Home taping didn't kill music, it revolutionized it. Here's 10 classic home-made records committed straight to analogue tape.
Devendra Banhart 'What Will..'
Unlike recent Banhart records, here the ambling, genre-dabbling, pastichey feel isn't a product of lazy happenstance, but written into the album's ambition.
Unlike recent Banhart records, here the ambling, genre-dabbling, pastichey feel isn't a product of lazy happenstance, but written into the album's ambition.
MGMT - Artist Profile
An in-depth look at the brief history of the hype-starting New Yorker duo.
An in-depth look at the brief history of the hype-starting New Yorker duo.
Grizzly Bear - Artist Profile
An in-depth look at the harmony-draped folk-pop experimentalists.
An in-depth look at the harmony-draped folk-pop experimentalists.
10 Great 2009 Debut Albums
These 10 acts arrived in style in 2009, delivering debut discs that impressed many.
These 10 acts arrived in style in 2009, delivering debut discs that impressed many.
Kings of Convenience Interview
The non-spectacled half of the Norwegian soft-pop bards talks about staying true to their 'Quiet is the New Loud' ideal.
The non-spectacled half of the Norwegian soft-pop bards talks about staying true to their 'Quiet is the New Loud' ideal.
Definitive: Nirvana 'Bleach'
The best $606.17 recording budget Sub Pop ever presided over.
The best $606.17 recording budget Sub Pop ever presided over.
Dead Man's Bones
Clearly the greatest nightmare-doo-wop-with-children's-choir soundtrack to an imagined monster movie recorded by a Hollywood celebrity ever.
Clearly the greatest nightmare-doo-wop-with-children's-choir soundtrack to an imagined monster movie recorded by a Hollywood celebrity ever.
Genre Guide
Don't know your shoegaze from your space-rock? Your twee from your C86? Read on to discover the peculiar secrets of all those baffling genre names.
Don't know your shoegaze from your space-rock? Your twee from your C86? Read on to discover the peculiar secrets of all those baffling genre names.
Pitchfork Reviews Jet
When urination says it all for the retro-rock generation.
When urination says it all for the retro-rock generation.
Bon Iver - Artist Profile
Justin Vernon made a heartbroken record in a Wisconsin cabin in the middle of winter. Plenty of people have warmed to it.
Justin Vernon made a heartbroken record in a Wisconsin cabin in the middle of winter. Plenty of people have warmed to it.
Alternative vs Indie?
We debate the question that has plagued mankind for centuries: what do 'alternative' and 'indie' actually really mean? And is it just the same thing?
We debate the question that has plagued mankind for centuries: what do 'alternative' and 'indie' actually really mean? And is it just the same thing?
Alternative Music 101
Your guide to the confusing basics of Alternative Music. Just remember: there are no dumb questions.
Your guide to the confusing basics of Alternative Music. Just remember: there are no dumb questions.
The Pixies - Artist Profile
The Pixies blistering use of broad dynamics and innovative re-write of pop-song forms redefined guitar music.
The Pixies blistering use of broad dynamics and innovative re-write of pop-song forms redefined guitar music.
Animal Collective 'M.P.P'
Releasing their third classic album in five years has cemented Animal Collective's reputation as one of the most important, distinctive voices in modern American music.
Releasing their third classic album in five years has cemented Animal Collective's reputation as one of the most important, distinctive voices in modern American music.
Nirvana - Artist Profile
Profile of the life and death of the alternative legends
Profile of the life and death of the alternative legends
Various 'Dark Was the Night'
The National's Dessner brothers solicited every indie act in existence to help them achieve one goal: making a charity compilation that doesn't suck.
The National's Dessner brothers solicited every indie act in existence to help them achieve one goal: making a charity compilation that doesn't suck.
Top 10 'Obscure' Starter LPs
These unique, unusual, underground albums sound thrilling, strange, and amazing to this day. They're the best 'Obscure' albums lurking in popular music's fringes, inspiring many with their abundant artistry and individuality.
These unique, unusual, underground albums sound thrilling, strange, and amazing to this day. They're the best 'Obscure' albums lurking in popular music's fringes, inspiring many with their abundant artistry and individuality.
Animal Collective Interview
The wailing AC frontman talks about the authoring of 2009's almighty 'Merriweather Post Pavilion'.
The wailing AC frontman talks about the authoring of 2009's almighty 'Merriweather Post Pavilion'.
Metric Interview
The chatty Metric frontwoman talks sad songs, Canadian socialism, and music-industry exploitation.
The chatty Metric frontwoman talks sad songs, Canadian socialism, and music-industry exploitation.
St. Vincent Interview
Chit-chat with the chatty and charming St. Vincent "vixen," about on-stage proposals, the creepiness of Twitter, and being a bad telemarketer.
Chit-chat with the chatty and charming St. Vincent "vixen," about on-stage proposals, the creepiness of Twitter, and being a bad telemarketer.
Genre Profile - Post-Rock
A look at the ragged instrumentalists and jazz-schooled dorks that've made up post-rock's wordless movement.
A look at the ragged instrumentalists and jazz-schooled dorks that've made up post-rock's wordless movement.
Panda Bear - Artist Profile
Biography of Animal Collective member Panda Bear, from his teenaged home-recordings to his solo flowering whilst living in Portugal.
Biography of Animal Collective member Panda Bear, from his teenaged home-recordings to his solo flowering whilst living in Portugal.
Record Label Profile: Sub Pop
In-depth historical profile of the influential, (semi-)independent Seattle label.
In-depth historical profile of the influential, (semi-)independent Seattle label.
Animal Collective - Profile
Biographical history of Animal Collective, the shape-shifting American outfit whose earned a reputation as one of the new millennium's most important musical acts.
Biographical history of Animal Collective, the shape-shifting American outfit whose earned a reputation as one of the new millennium's most important musical acts.
Yo La Tengo 'Popular Songs'
For their 14th-ish album, Yo La Tengo return to the 'variety show' format of 'I Can Hear the Heart Beating As One.'
For their 14th-ish album, Yo La Tengo return to the 'variety show' format of 'I Can Hear the Heart Beating As One.'
Megapuss Interview
The non-Devendra member of the 'puss talks about publicly outing his own member, his dreams of being a Brazilian tranny, the joys of Little Joy, and how his band was built for good times.
The non-Devendra member of the 'puss talks about publicly outing his own member, his dreams of being a Brazilian tranny, the joys of Little Joy, and how his band was built for good times.
Why? - Artist Profile
A look at the life and work of indie-pop/backpacker-rap confessionalist Yoni Wolf.
A look at the life and work of indie-pop/backpacker-rap confessionalist Yoni Wolf.
Land of Talk Interview
The talkative Canadian rocker talks broken bones, Broken Social Scene, Montréal hype, and being mellowed by Bon Iver.
The talkative Canadian rocker talks broken bones, Broken Social Scene, Montréal hype, and being mellowed by Bon Iver.
Grizzly Bear 'Veckatimest'
Grizzly Bear's glorious third album is wondrous in its grandest gestures and its smallest details.
Grizzly Bear's glorious third album is wondrous in its grandest gestures and its smallest details.
10 Acts to Watch at SXSW 2009
Ten hot tips to get you through Austin's musical overload, including Here We Go Magic, XYX, Mt. St. Helens Vietnam Band, Micachu, and so many more!
Ten hot tips to get you through Austin's musical overload, including Here We Go Magic, XYX, Mt. St. Helens Vietnam Band, Micachu, and so many more!
Top 20 Albums of 2007
Let's count 'em down: the very best alternative and/or indie records of 2007. From Animal Collective to, um, Panda Bear, it's the definitive list of the year's essential listening.
Let's count 'em down: the very best alternative and/or indie records of 2007. From Animal Collective to, um, Panda Bear, it's the definitive list of the year's essential listening.
Genre Profile - Freak-Folk
A look at the recent folk-revival revivalists who've redreamt the imaginary hippy utopia for the new century.
A look at the recent folk-revival revivalists who've redreamt the imaginary hippy utopia for the new century.
Bat for Lashes - Profile
History of glamorous English songstress Natasha Khan.
History of glamorous English songstress Natasha Khan.
10 Alternative Starter Albums
Top 10 Starter Alternative Albums
Top 10 Starter Alternative Albums
10 Great 2008 Debut Albums
A slate of impressive, singular, idiosyncratic debutante discs from an array of artists who arrived in style in 2008.
A slate of impressive, singular, idiosyncratic debutante discs from an array of artists who arrived in style in 2008.
Genre Profile - Twee
A back-to-basics primer on the indie-est of indie genres, in all its guitar-jangling, cardigan-clad, 7"-swapping glory.
A back-to-basics primer on the indie-est of indie genres, in all its guitar-jangling, cardigan-clad, 7"-swapping glory.
Yeah Yeah Yeahs - Profile
The history of the rock'n'roll trio, as told by Karen O, Nick Zinner, and Brian Chase.
The history of the rock'n'roll trio, as told by Karen O, Nick Zinner, and Brian Chase.
Top 10 Kill Rock Stars Albums
The label that gave riot-grrrl to the world has grown into an iconic independent imprint beholden to no singular sound or style.
The label that gave riot-grrrl to the world has grown into an iconic independent imprint beholden to no singular sound or style.
Definitive: Animal Collective
Tapping into the freak-folk times, Animal Collective's acclaimed fifth album spearheaded a sweeping movement of 'new primitivism'
Tapping into the freak-folk times, Animal Collective's acclaimed fifth album spearheaded a sweeping movement of 'new primitivism'
Alt History - The Sex Pistols
40 people were there, 4000 claim they were. A look at one of the most legendary, influential gigs in modern music history.
40 people were there, 4000 claim they were. A look at one of the most legendary, influential gigs in modern music history.
Dirty Projectors 'Bitte Orca'
After years of toiling in the shadows of obscurity, Dirty Projectors' time to shine is now.
After years of toiling in the shadows of obscurity, Dirty Projectors' time to shine is now.
Bon Iver Interview
The woolly Wisconsinite discusses his blessed 2008, whether he's actually ever read Thoreau, and his skillz on the basketball court.
The woolly Wisconsinite discusses his blessed 2008, whether he's actually ever read Thoreau, and his skillz on the basketball court.
Elliott Smith - Artist Profile
Chronicle of the rise and demise of the ultimate depressive songsmith.
Chronicle of the rise and demise of the ultimate depressive songsmith.
Mount Eerie Interview
The wandering traveller talks about his "wilderness time" journal-keeping and his collaboration with Julie Doiron.
The wandering traveller talks about his "wilderness time" journal-keeping and his collaboration with Julie Doiron.
Definitive Albums: The Pixies
With over two decades of impressive influence in its wake, dare we ask: is 'Doolittle' alternative music's high watermark?
With over two decades of impressive influence in its wake, dare we ask: is 'Doolittle' alternative music's high watermark?
Stereolab Interview
Laetitia Sadier discusses the state of Stereolab, and the state of the modern world, on the eve of her beloved band's ninth album.
Laetitia Sadier discusses the state of Stereolab, and the state of the modern world, on the eve of her beloved band's ninth album.
Genre Profile - Shoegaze
A historical look at the guitar-driven "fluff on the needle" sound that set London alight in the late-'80s and early'-90s.
A historical look at the guitar-driven "fluff on the needle" sound that set London alight in the late-'80s and early'-90s.
Top 10 Disappointing LPs, 2008
The unfortunate misses, anticlimactic follow-ups, and deflating letdowns that made music-loving in 2008 a little less wondrous.
The unfortunate misses, anticlimactic follow-ups, and deflating letdowns that made music-loving in 2008 a little less wondrous.
10 Killer Under-the-Radar LPs
Here's 10 (well, 12, actually) totally killer 2008 discs that, whilst currently consigned to obscurity, are definitely worthy of reaching a far-larger audience.
Here's 10 (well, 12, actually) totally killer 2008 discs that, whilst currently consigned to obscurity, are definitely worthy of reaching a far-larger audience.
Clues 'Clues'
Alden Penner's post-Unicorns outfit debuts with an album of dense, dark, distorted, '90s-ish alt-rock.
Alden Penner's post-Unicorns outfit debuts with an album of dense, dark, distorted, '90s-ish alt-rock.
Silver Jews Interview
Silver Jews' David Berman discusses his recent embrace of the road, pop's utter lack of message, and whether he's still on a mission from God.
Silver Jews' David Berman discusses his recent embrace of the road, pop's utter lack of message, and whether he's still on a mission from God.
God Help the Girl Interview
The B&S frontman talks of his 'story set to music,' his other band's history, and how there weren't any decent records released in the '90s.
The B&S frontman talks of his 'story set to music,' his other band's history, and how there weren't any decent records released in the '90s.
Genre Profile - Riot Grrrl
Chronicle of the riot grrrl movement's furious surge in the early 1990s.
Chronicle of the riot grrrl movement's furious surge in the early 1990s.
Iron & Wine - Artist Profile
Shy southerner Sam Beam's quiet songs have made a loud noise on the alternative scene.
Shy southerner Sam Beam's quiet songs have made a loud noise on the alternative scene.
Big Pink 'A Brief History...'
In 2009, the emperor’s new clothes come in a hot new shade of Big Pink.
In 2009, the emperor’s new clothes come in a hot new shade of Big Pink.
Deerhunter Interview
B-Cox talks blog haters, the Bob Pollard Curse, record stores, and about himself in the third person.
B-Cox talks blog haters, the Bob Pollard Curse, record stores, and about himself in the third person.
Mazzy Star - Artist Profile
Their narcotic balladry went platinum in the '90s, then they disappeared. The story of Mazzy Star.
Their narcotic balladry went platinum in the '90s, then they disappeared. The story of Mazzy Star.
Death Cab for Cutie - Profile
Potted, spotted history of the impossibly successful Seattle indie-rock icons, as told by its members.
Potted, spotted history of the impossibly successful Seattle indie-rock icons, as told by its members.
Decemberists 'Hazards of Love'
Long live the rock-opera! So sayeth these ramblin’, politickin’, folk-pop purveyors of twee antiquity.
Long live the rock-opera! So sayeth these ramblin’, politickin’, folk-pop purveyors of twee antiquity.
Andrew Bird Interview
Bird chirps about doin' time swing-revivalists Squirrel Nut Zippers, the idea that making an album is like "being on a bender," and how his "stomach sinks" when he sees people lining up for his shows.
Bird chirps about doin' time swing-revivalists Squirrel Nut Zippers, the idea that making an album is like "being on a bender," and how his "stomach sinks" when he sees people lining up for his shows.
Scott Walker - Artist Profile
Teen pin-up turned avant-garde recluse. The strange music and even stranger life of Scott Walker.
Teen pin-up turned avant-garde recluse. The strange music and even stranger life of Scott Walker.
Wolf Parade - Artist Profile
A tale of four Canadian gentlemen and their merry rock'n'roll band.
A tale of four Canadian gentlemen and their merry rock'n'roll band.
'The Psychic Soviet'
The greatest rock-n-roll book in the world by the greatest rock-n-roll frontman in the world. And I'm not talking about Bono's autobiography.
The greatest rock-n-roll book in the world by the greatest rock-n-roll frontman in the world. And I'm not talking about Bono's autobiography.
Factory Records Profile
Chronicle of the rise and fall of Manchester's legendary Factory Records, home to Joy Division, New Order, the Happy Mondays and more.
Chronicle of the rise and fall of Manchester's legendary Factory Records, home to Joy Division, New Order, the Happy Mondays and more.
Beach House Interview
Baltimore-based duo Beach House's slow, droney, comedown dream-pop has legions of listeners analyzing it for meaning. But the band's Alex Scally isn't one of them.
Baltimore-based duo Beach House's slow, droney, comedown dream-pop has legions of listeners analyzing it for meaning. But the band's Alex Scally isn't one of them.
Merge Records Profile
Chronicle of the surprising rise of North Carolina's long-running independent label Merge Records.
Chronicle of the surprising rise of North Carolina's long-running independent label Merge Records.
TV on the Radio - Profile
Let us chart the rise and rise of the Brooklyn outfit who's never met a bad review.
Let us chart the rise and rise of the Brooklyn outfit who's never met a bad review.
Nico Muhly Interview
Nico Muhly talks Coldplay's lack of originality, Nicole Kidman's "botox-ass'd face", and working with Antony, Björk, Will Oldham, and Sam Amidon.
Nico Muhly talks Coldplay's lack of originality, Nicole Kidman's "botox-ass'd face", and working with Antony, Björk, Will Oldham, and Sam Amidon.
Barlow Fired From Dinosaur Jr
When the Dinosaur Jr honcho obtusely let his bassplayer go, Barlow turned around and aired his grievances in a series of Sebadoh songs.
When the Dinosaur Jr honcho obtusely let his bassplayer go, Barlow turned around and aired his grievances in a series of Sebadoh songs.
Kill Rock Stars Profile
Profile of the long-running, fiercely-independent Pacific Northwest imprint, from riot-grrrl beginnings to its rebirth in Portland.
Profile of the long-running, fiercely-independent Pacific Northwest imprint, from riot-grrrl beginnings to its rebirth in Portland.
Matador Records Profile
A traipse through the history of New York's venerable mega-indie, Matador Records.
A traipse through the history of New York's venerable mega-indie, Matador Records.
Definitive LPs: Michael Hurley
40 years ago, the New Weird American Folk Underground was essentially just one guy: Michael Hurley.
40 years ago, the New Weird American Folk Underground was essentially just one guy: Michael Hurley.
Antony & the Johnsons Profile
Profile, history, biography of the warbling New Yorker troubadour.
Profile, history, biography of the warbling New Yorker troubadour.
Blitzen Trapper Interview
Portland's Blitzen Trapper play a peculiar brand of Americana, and their leader has particular thoughts on the state of America itself.
Portland's Blitzen Trapper play a peculiar brand of Americana, and their leader has particular thoughts on the state of America itself.
Lou Reed Releases 'Metal MM'
In 1975, Lou Reed released one of the strangest, most confronting, most misunderstood records in rock history.
In 1975, Lou Reed released one of the strangest, most confronting, most misunderstood records in rock history.
The Devil and Daniel Johnston
From home-made cassettes to trying to crash an air-born plane: the Devil made Daniel Johnston do it all.
From home-made cassettes to trying to crash an air-born plane: the Devil made Daniel Johnston do it all.
Discovery Interview
On (brief) hiatus from their Vampire Weekend/Ra Ra Riot day-jobs, the Discovery duo talk of embracing Auto-Tune, buzzy synths, and inevitable backlash.
On (brief) hiatus from their Vampire Weekend/Ra Ra Riot day-jobs, the Discovery duo talk of embracing Auto-Tune, buzzy synths, and inevitable backlash.
Dodos Interview
Meric Long of San Franciscan rattle-folk duo Dodos is shocked that his band holds such appeal for little kids and old people.
Meric Long of San Franciscan rattle-folk duo Dodos is shocked that his band holds such appeal for little kids and old people.
The Walkmen Interview
Eight years and four albums into things, the ultra-moody New Yorkers are in career-best form. Their throaty vocalist talks it like they walk it.
Eight years and four albums into things, the ultra-moody New Yorkers are in career-best form. Their throaty vocalist talks it like they walk it.
Top 10 Breakout Acts of 2008
MGMT, Vampire Weekend, Fleet Foxes, No Age, Los Campesinos!, Times New Viking, Vivian Girls, Crystal Stilts, Chairlift, Lykke Li
MGMT, Vampire Weekend, Fleet Foxes, No Age, Los Campesinos!, Times New Viking, Vivian Girls, Crystal Stilts, Chairlift, Lykke Li
Michael Hurley 'Ida con Snock'
The latest LP for the progenitor of the New Weird America is familiar Hurley: simultaneously wacky and touching.
The latest LP for the progenitor of the New Weird America is familiar Hurley: simultaneously wacky and touching.
Top 10 Merge Albums
From Superchunk to Destroyer, Guv'ner to the Arcade Fire, we count down 10 choice discs served up in the history of North Carolina's Merge Records.
From Superchunk to Destroyer, Guv'ner to the Arcade Fire, we count down 10 choice discs served up in the history of North Carolina's Merge Records.
Alternative Music - FullReviews
An index of FullReviews for the Alternative Music guide site.
An index of FullReviews for the Alternative Music guide site.
Genre Profile - Lo-Fi
Crack out your Shrimper cassettes! It's a history lesson in the lo-fi movement.
Crack out your Shrimper cassettes! It's a history lesson in the lo-fi movement.
Devendra Banhart - Profile
The bearded freak-folk bard is, in his words, just a "song and dance man."
The bearded freak-folk bard is, in his words, just a "song and dance man."
Fool's Gold 'Fool's Gold'
This Los Angeles-born Afro-Islamic-Hebrew jam-band is the music world's digitized global village made manifest.
This Los Angeles-born Afro-Islamic-Hebrew jam-band is the music world's digitized global village made manifest.
Megapuss 'Surfing'
The debut disc for Devendra Banhart's side-project is an in-joke made public.
The debut disc for Devendra Banhart's side-project is an in-joke made public.
Top 10 Sub Pop Albums
Though it'll be forever associated with grunge, Seattle's legendary Sub Pop Records has reinvented itself in the new millennium, presiding over an eclectic lineup of increasingly-successful acts. Here're 10 picks from the label's first 20 years.
Though it'll be forever associated with grunge, Seattle's legendary Sub Pop Records has reinvented itself in the new millennium, presiding over an eclectic lineup of increasingly-successful acts. Here're 10 picks from the label's first 20 years.
Crazy Dreams Band
A joyous, jam-band racket that stumbles a line between classic-rock-approximation and shambolic capitulation.
A joyous, jam-band racket that stumbles a line between classic-rock-approximation and shambolic capitulation.
Dinosaur Jr 'Farm'
Has there been a better rock'n'roll comeback than the return of the original Dinosaur?
Has there been a better rock'n'roll comeback than the return of the original Dinosaur?
My Bloody Valentine - Profile
A career chronicle of the recently-reborn godheads of the shoegaze movement.
A career chronicle of the recently-reborn godheads of the shoegaze movement.
Yeasayer - Artist Profile
Yeasayer are a quartet that accomplishes no small task: defying genre.
Yeasayer are a quartet that accomplishes no small task: defying genre.
Factory Records: Graphic Album
Manchester's legendary Factory Records were long defined by their consistent, insistent visual aesthetic. This art-book chronicles the label's entire output.
Manchester's legendary Factory Records were long defined by their consistent, insistent visual aesthetic. This art-book chronicles the label's entire output.
MGMT 'Oracular Spectacular'
The hype-startin' New Yorker duo MGMT have made a genre-jugglin' debut of questionable artistic merit.
The hype-startin' New Yorker duo MGMT have made a genre-jugglin' debut of questionable artistic merit.
Kings of Convenience LP Review
After five years apart, Erlend Øye and Eirik Glambek Bøe are back on record together, writing a love-letter to each other.
After five years apart, Erlend Øye and Eirik Glambek Bøe are back on record together, writing a love-letter to each other.
Shearwater Interview
Jonathan Meiburg of Shearwater trawls throug his tawdry musical past, his rampant ornithophilia, and his new record, 'Rook.'
Jonathan Meiburg of Shearwater trawls throug his tawdry musical past, his rampant ornithophilia, and his new record, 'Rook.'
Conor Oberst 'Outer South'
If 'Conor Oberst' gave off the wafting aroma of a sausage party, 'Outer South' positively reeks of it.
If 'Conor Oberst' gave off the wafting aroma of a sausage party, 'Outer South' positively reeks of it.
St. Vincent - Artist Profile
A look at the life and career of fearsome fretboard shredder, old-fashioned romantic, and all-around dork, Annie Clark.
A look at the life and career of fearsome fretboard shredder, old-fashioned romantic, and all-around dork, Annie Clark.
Chad VanGaalen Interview
The tall Canadian songsmith talks raiding rubbish skips, building instruments, and the everyman inspiration of the lo-fi movement.
The tall Canadian songsmith talks raiding rubbish skips, building instruments, and the everyman inspiration of the lo-fi movement.
Built to Spill 'There is No..'
Doug Martsch and co sound like there’s nothing they’d rather be doing than making this record.
Doug Martsch and co sound like there’s nothing they’d rather be doing than making this record.
Top 10 Constellation Albums
Ten picks from the tastefully-artwork'd back catalogue of the mighty Montréal indie, from Godspeed You Black Emperor! to Clues.
Ten picks from the tastefully-artwork'd back catalogue of the mighty Montréal indie, from Godspeed You Black Emperor! to Clues.
Definitive: Brigitte Fontaine
In 1969, a French chanteuse, an Algerian multi-instrumentalist, and a Chicago jazz quartet undertook an experimental, exploratory, revolutionary musical voyage.
In 1969, a French chanteuse, an Algerian multi-instrumentalist, and a Chicago jazz quartet undertook an experimental, exploratory, revolutionary musical voyage.
Arthur Russell 'Love is...'
Arthur Russell reissue mania continues, with this collection of country-ish cuts culled together to coincide with the documentary 'Wild Combination: A Portrait of Arthur Russell.'
Arthur Russell reissue mania continues, with this collection of country-ish cuts culled together to coincide with the documentary 'Wild Combination: A Portrait of Arthur Russell.'
Jaguar Love Interview
After the bad break-up of Blood Brothers, screeching vocalist Johnny Whitney is back with a brand new bag: Jaguar Love. He spills the beans on how one became the other.
After the bad break-up of Blood Brothers, screeching vocalist Johnny Whitney is back with a brand new bag: Jaguar Love. He spills the beans on how one became the other.
Pavement: Artist Profile
Biography of the kings of lo-fi slackerdom, as told by Stephen Malkmus and Spiral Stairs
Biography of the kings of lo-fi slackerdom, as told by Stephen Malkmus and Spiral Stairs
Alternative Music - Articles
An index of articles for the Alternative Music guide site.
An index of articles for the Alternative Music guide site.
Definitive LPs: Built to Spill
Perfect? Well, yeah, almost.
Perfect? Well, yeah, almost.
Gang Gang Dance - Profile
A potted look at the spotty history of the genre-defying New York band.
A potted look at the spotty history of the genre-defying New York band.
Interpol - Artist Profile
Chronicle of these well-dressed New Yorker dudes and their moody post-punk gloom.
Chronicle of these well-dressed New Yorker dudes and their moody post-punk gloom.
Jenny Lewis Interview
The child-actor turned Rilo Kiley indie-rocker turned flame-haired country-soul chanteuse talks in the wake of her second solo album, 'Acid Tongue.'
The child-actor turned Rilo Kiley indie-rocker turned flame-haired country-soul chanteuse talks in the wake of her second solo album, 'Acid Tongue.'
Mogwai Interview
The guitarist of the Scottish post-rock heroes is howling.
The guitarist of the Scottish post-rock heroes is howling.
Top 10 Matador Albums
Few record-labels have had an ongoing, unbroken run of pop-cultural credibility like Matador Records; whose 20 years on the job has uncovered an embarrassment of recorded riches. Here's ten glittering picks from the Matador catalogue.
Few record-labels have had an ongoing, unbroken run of pop-cultural credibility like Matador Records; whose 20 years on the job has uncovered an embarrassment of recorded riches. Here's ten glittering picks from the Matador catalogue.
'Dig!'
A seven-year chronicle of the rise of The Dandy Warhols and the fall of The Brian Jonestown Massacre.
A seven-year chronicle of the rise of The Dandy Warhols and the fall of The Brian Jonestown Massacre.
Frightened Rabbit - Profile
Frightened Rabbit are an emotionally-driven guitar-rock combo from Scotland. Learn more about their strange ways.
Frightened Rabbit are an emotionally-driven guitar-rock combo from Scotland. Learn more about their strange ways.
Definitive Albums: The Feelies
The Feelies preferred coffee over beer, precision over swing, and, most notably, tension over release.
The Feelies preferred coffee over beer, precision over swing, and, most notably, tension over release.
Definitive Albums: Boredoms
It's the most unexpectedly influential album of the '00s: the percussive noise orgy that rewired and inspired Gang Gang Dance, Black Dice, and Animal Collective.
It's the most unexpectedly influential album of the '00s: the percussive noise orgy that rewired and inspired Gang Gang Dance, Black Dice, and Animal Collective.
Built to Spill: Artist Profile
The history of bearded fretboard warrior Doug Martsch, and his merry band of Built to Spill men.
The history of bearded fretboard warrior Doug Martsch, and his merry band of Built to Spill men.
Tortoise 'Beacons of...'
Five years since 'It's All Around You,' these slow-and-steady titans of mighty instrumentalism have picked up right where they left off.
Five years since 'It's All Around You,' these slow-and-steady titans of mighty instrumentalism have picked up right where they left off.
'Wolfgang Amadeus Phoenix'
Every time Phoenix releases an album, you're guaranteed a smattering of killer pop-songs.
Every time Phoenix releases an album, you're guaranteed a smattering of killer pop-songs.
God Help the Girl
The soundtrack to Stuart Murdoch's imagined musical doesn't measure up to a Belle and Sebastian album.
The soundtrack to Stuart Murdoch's imagined musical doesn't measure up to a Belle and Sebastian album.
Paw Tracks Profile
Profile of Paw Tracks, the label helmed by the members of Animal Collective.
Profile of Paw Tracks, the label helmed by the members of Animal Collective.
Jenny Lewis 'Acid Tongue'
Jenny Lewis's glossy second solo record is a gussied-up, unconvincing attempt at making a classic-sounding album.
Jenny Lewis's glossy second solo record is a gussied-up, unconvincing attempt at making a classic-sounding album.
Tiny Vipers Interview
The stark songsmith laments that, though you can leave your small-town upbringing behind, it never really leaves you.
The stark songsmith laments that, though you can leave your small-town upbringing behind, it never really leaves you.
Wavves Interview
Post Primavera meltdown, Nathan Williams talks about being the most hated man in the blogosphere.
Post Primavera meltdown, Nathan Williams talks about being the most hated man in the blogosphere.
Scott Walker: 30 Century Man
Documentary chronicle of the life and work of the reclusive crooner both builds up and tears down the Walker mythology.
Documentary chronicle of the life and work of the reclusive crooner both builds up and tears down the Walker mythology.
Clues Interview
He was born a Unicorn, but now Penner searches for Clues amidst his band's densely-layered, '90s-sounding rock.
He was born a Unicorn, but now Penner searches for Clues amidst his band's densely-layered, '90s-sounding rock.
Shannon Stephens Interview
Shannon Stephens played in a band with Sufjan Stevens in the '90s. She disappeared. He became a superstar. She was jealous.
Shannon Stephens played in a band with Sufjan Stevens in the '90s. She disappeared. He became a superstar. She was jealous.
Definitive LPs: Joanna Newsom
Joanna Newsom's debut disc was a startling arrival from an alien artist, the virtuoso harpist a true musical original.
Joanna Newsom's debut disc was a startling arrival from an alien artist, the virtuoso harpist a true musical original.
Belle and Sebastian - Profile
The life and times of the Scottish twee institution.
The life and times of the Scottish twee institution.
Arthur Russell - Profile
Chronicle of the life and times of the fallen angel of disco-as-art, New York cellist and home-recording scientist Arthur Russell.
Chronicle of the life and times of the fallen angel of disco-as-art, New York cellist and home-recording scientist Arthur Russell.
Silver Jews on the Road Again
Having steadfastly refused touring for the first 16 years of the Silver Jews' existence, David Berman is taking the band on tour for the third time in four years.
Having steadfastly refused touring for the first 16 years of the Silver Jews' existence, David Berman is taking the band on tour for the third time in four years.
Parenthetical Girls Interview
Parenthetical Girls' album 'Entanglements' is an ambitious, impressive orchestral epic. Here, frontman Zac Pennington spills the beans on its making.
Parenthetical Girls' album 'Entanglements' is an ambitious, impressive orchestral epic. Here, frontman Zac Pennington spills the beans on its making.
Sonic Youth 'The Eternal'
With their rocking 16th LP, the forever-noisy greybeards prove themselves to be the Eternal Youth.
With their rocking 16th LP, the forever-noisy greybeards prove themselves to be the Eternal Youth.
Why? 'Eskimo Snow'
The master of the lyrical overshare, Yoni Wolf views the world as his "lit confessional marquee."
The master of the lyrical overshare, Yoni Wolf views the world as his "lit confessional marquee."
David Berman 'Actual Air'
The debut book of poetry for the Silver Jews frontman is a striking collection of razor-sharp syllables.
The debut book of poetry for the Silver Jews frontman is a striking collection of razor-sharp syllables.
2008 Grammy Alternative Guide
A form-guide for all five nominees, from Death Cab for Cutie to Radiohead to, um, Gnarls Barkley?
A form-guide for all five nominees, from Death Cab for Cutie to Radiohead to, um, Gnarls Barkley?
Beach House Tour Fall '08
After pressing up their first-ever seven-inch, the Baltimore duo take to the road
After pressing up their first-ever seven-inch, the Baltimore duo take to the road
Neu! - Artist Profile
The German krautrock legends gave the world motorik rhythm and the infamous proto-remix Side 2 of 'Neu! 2'.
The German krautrock legends gave the world motorik rhythm and the infamous proto-remix Side 2 of 'Neu! 2'.
Death Vessel Interview
The gentle folkie with the high, high voice colors in his pre-Sub Pop musical backstory.
The gentle folkie with the high, high voice colors in his pre-Sub Pop musical backstory.
Franz Ferdinand Interview
After the success of their debut record, Franz Ferdinand found themselves in interesting company: Hulk Hogan, James Brown, and The Nanny.
After the success of their debut record, Franz Ferdinand found themselves in interesting company: Hulk Hogan, James Brown, and The Nanny.