Alternative Music: Most Popular Articles
These articles are the most popular over the last month.
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.
Discovery 'LP'
Vampire Weekend + Ra Ra Riot + Copious Amounts of Auto-Tune = Discovery.
Vampire Weekend + Ra Ra Riot + Copious Amounts of Auto-Tune = Discovery.
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.
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 '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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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'.
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.
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.
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.
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.'
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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?
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.
Holy F**k Interview
The one-time side-project for Walsh and Brian Borcherdt has far exceeded any of their expectations. Even in spite of their name.
The one-time side-project for Walsh and Brian Borcherdt has far exceeded any of their expectations. Even in spite of their name.
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.
Andrew Bird 'Noble Beast'
The Chicagoan multi-instrumentalist continues to forge further into his own unique take on Americana.
The Chicagoan multi-instrumentalist continues to forge further into his own unique take on Americana.
Nirvana - Artist Profile
Profile of the life and death of the alternative legends
Profile of the life and death of the alternative legends
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
Chairlift 'Does You Inspire..'
On their debut album, the New Yorker trio dabble in keytone kitsch, retrofuturist imagery, and, on occasions, country balladry.
On their debut album, the New Yorker trio dabble in keytone kitsch, retrofuturist imagery, and, on occasions, country balladry.
10 Alternative Starter Albums
Top 10 Starter Alternative Albums
Top 10 Starter Alternative Albums
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.
Ra Ra Riot 'The Rhumb Line'
The first LP-proper from these pals-of-Vampire-Weekend shows a band begging for brighter lights and bigger stages.
The first LP-proper from these pals-of-Vampire-Weekend shows a band begging for brighter lights and bigger stages.
St. Vincent 'Actor'
Playing the part of St. Vincent, all the world's a stage for Annie Clark.
Playing the part of St. Vincent, all the world's a stage for Annie Clark.
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.
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 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.
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.
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 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.
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.
Nico Muhly Interview
Nico Muhly's 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's 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.
Handsome Furs 'Face Control'
HF have authored an album as Russian travelogue, journeying deep into the dark heart of the neo-Soviet-Union.
HF have authored an album as Russian travelogue, journeying deep into the dark heart of the neo-Soviet-Union.
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?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Definitive Albums: The Monks
With four decade's worth of hindsight, the Monks' still-thrilling debut may've birthed both punk and kraut-rock.
With four decade's worth of hindsight, the Monks' still-thrilling debut may've birthed both punk and kraut-rock.
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.
Calexico Interview
The leader of Tucson's Tex-Mex maestros talks of the border milieu that inspires his band.
The leader of Tucson's Tex-Mex maestros talks of the border milieu that inspires his band.
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.
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.
Vampire Weekend
Vampire Weekend's hype-starting debut disc is one of the biggest alternative albums in aeons. But is it worthy of all the acclaim?
Vampire Weekend's hype-starting debut disc is one of the biggest alternative albums in aeons. But is it worthy of all the acclaim?
Spiral Stairs Interview
Spiral Stairs talks about his forthcoming solo debut on Matador, and the possibilities of a Pavement reunion.
Spiral Stairs talks about his forthcoming solo debut on Matador, and the possibilities of a Pavement reunion.
No Age Interview
In the wake of an unexpectedly successful 2008, the No Age guitar-slinger talks Barack, bootlegging, crowd-surfing, and Grammy nominations.
In the wake of an unexpectedly successful 2008, the No Age guitar-slinger talks Barack, bootlegging, crowd-surfing, and Grammy nominations.
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.
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.
Crystal Stilts 'Alight...'
The moody, muted debut from the New Yorker quartet dowses pop-songs in lo-fidelity reverb in search of spectral qualities.
The moody, muted debut from the New Yorker quartet dowses pop-songs in lo-fidelity reverb in search of spectral qualities.
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.
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.
Buraka Som Sistema Interview
The man behind BSS's kuduro beats talks about the political agenda of the Portuguese/Angolan party-starters.
The man behind BSS's kuduro beats talks about the political agenda of the Portuguese/Angolan party-starters.
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.
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.
Here We Go Magic
After two albums of cold classicism, Luke Temple is getting warmer, warmer...
After two albums of cold classicism, Luke Temple is getting warmer, warmer...
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.
RIo en Medio Interview
With the release of 'Frontier,' the freak-folk siren talks the New Mexico snow, Vashti Bunyan comparisons, and trying to create a "field of miraculous occurrences."
With the release of 'Frontier,' the freak-folk siren talks the New Mexico snow, Vashti Bunyan comparisons, and trying to create a "field of miraculous occurrences."
Belle and Sebastian - Profile
The life and times of the Scottish twee institution.
The life and times of the Scottish twee institution.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Spoon - Artist Profile
Potted history of Austin indie-rock outfit Spoon, from their troubled early days to their chart-bothering recent rock classics.
Potted history of Austin indie-rock outfit Spoon, from their troubled early days to their chart-bothering recent rock classics.
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.
Alternative Music - FullReviews
An index of FullReviews for the Alternative Music guide site.
An index of FullReviews for the Alternative Music guide site.
The Decemberists - Profile
Profile of the fore'er whimsical folk-pop troupe from Portland.
Profile of the fore'er whimsical folk-pop troupe from Portland.
Mogwai Interview
The guitarist of the Scottish post-rock heroes is howling.
The guitarist of the Scottish post-rock heroes is howling.
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.
Yeah Yeah Yeahs 'It's Blitz!'
The third YYY LP finds the band finally comfortable in their own commercially-accessible skin.
The third YYY LP finds the band finally comfortable in their own commercially-accessible skin.
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.
Definitive Albums: Sonic Youth
Sonic Youth’s decade-long reign as the '80s American underground’s Godheads came to an almighty culmination on this monolithic double-album.
Sonic Youth’s decade-long reign as the '80s American underground’s Godheads came to an almighty culmination on this monolithic double-album.
Women Interview
The frontman of the noisy Canadian quartet breaks down their experimental, all-analogue aesthetic.
The frontman of the noisy Canadian quartet breaks down their experimental, all-analogue aesthetic.
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.'
Alternative Music - Articles
An index of articles for the Alternative Music guide site.
An index of articles for the Alternative Music guide site.
'Leonard Cohen: I'm Your Man'
A film divided into three: one part study of Cohen, one part all-star variety concert, one part stuck-listening-to-Bono.
A film divided into three: one part study of Cohen, one part all-star variety concert, one part stuck-listening-to-Bono.
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.
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.
Bat for Lashes - Profile
History of glamorous English songstress Natasha Khan.
History of glamorous English songstress Natasha Khan.
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.
Spiritualized Interview
A conversation with the rock-n-roll saint about near-death experiences, the reformation industry, and the power of music.
A conversation with the rock-n-roll saint about near-death experiences, the reformation industry, and the power of music.
Thrill Jockey Records Profile
Profile of Chicago's influential independent label Thrill Jockey.
Profile of Chicago's influential independent label Thrill Jockey.
TV on the Radio 'Dear Science'
TV on the Radio's 'Dear Science' has been acclaimed as one of the greatest albums ever made. Which is definitely getting a little carried away about it.
TV on the Radio's 'Dear Science' has been acclaimed as one of the greatest albums ever made. Which is definitely getting a little carried away about it.
'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.
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?
Spacemen 3 - Artist Profile
The rise and fall of infamous English noiseniks Spacemen 3.
The rise and fall of infamous English noiseniks Spacemen 3.
Of Montreal Interview
The "frisky" OM frontman lays it out: "In the indie-rock world, it’s not very common for people to sing about sex in an explicit fashion."
The "frisky" OM frontman lays it out: "In the indie-rock world, it’s not very common for people to sing about sex in an explicit fashion."
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.'
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.
Pitchfork Reviews Jet
When urination says it all for the retro-rock generation.
When urination says it all for the retro-rock generation.
Dean Wareham 'Black Postcards'
The spill-all memoir looks at the mundane realities and emotional messiness of doing time in bands rich in critical acclaim, less so in wealth.
The spill-all memoir looks at the mundane realities and emotional messiness of doing time in bands rich in critical acclaim, less so in wealth.
Papercuts 'You Can Have...'
The work of gifted producer Jason Quever, Papercuts' retro-pop records are mood in search of a tune.
The work of gifted producer Jason Quever, Papercuts' retro-pop records are mood in search of a tune.
Definitive LPs: Spiritualized
J. Spaceman's towering landmark builds heartbroken symphonies mixing shoegaze with gospel, rock-n-roll swagger with bowed confessional.
J. Spaceman's towering landmark builds heartbroken symphonies mixing shoegaze with gospel, rock-n-roll swagger with bowed confessional.
Antony & the Johnsons Profile
Profile, history, biography of the warbling New Yorker troubadour.
Profile, history, biography of the warbling New Yorker troubadour.
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.
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.
Gang Gang Dance Interview
'Saint Dymphna,' Gang Gang Dance's fourth album, and first for Warp, was a long time coming. "There was a good deal of madness in making this record," says Diamond.
'Saint Dymphna,' Gang Gang Dance's fourth album, and first for Warp, was a long time coming. "There was a good deal of madness in making this record," says Diamond.
Chad VanGaalen 'Soft Airplane'
The third album for the self-styled Canadian mystic is a typical mixed-bag, an ad-hoc assemblage of mismatched instrumentage that occasionally seems magical, often not.
The third album for the self-styled Canadian mystic is a typical mixed-bag, an ad-hoc assemblage of mismatched instrumentage that occasionally seems magical, often not.
No Age - Artist Profile
History, bio, and breakdown of the Los Angelino duo, as told by drummer/vocalist Dean Spunt.
History, bio, and breakdown of the Los Angelino duo, as told by drummer/vocalist Dean Spunt.
My Bloody Valentine Tour!
A sweet decade-and-a-half after last hitting the States, the revitalized My Bloody Valentine have gotten the band back together, and are playing a string of North American shows.
A sweet decade-and-a-half after last hitting the States, the revitalized My Bloody Valentine have gotten the band back together, and are playing a string of North American shows.
The National Interview
Aaron Dessner knows charity compilation CDs are awful. His one, 'Dark Was the Night,' thankfully is not.
Aaron Dessner knows charity compilation CDs are awful. His one, 'Dark Was the Night,' thankfully is not.
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.
Broken Social Scene - Profile
Potted history of the sprawling, many-membered, ever-evolving Canadian concern, as told by founders Kevin Drew and Brendan Canning.
Potted history of the sprawling, many-membered, ever-evolving Canadian concern, as told by founders Kevin Drew and Brendan Canning.
Definitive Albums: Dinosaur Jr
Review of Dinosaur Jr's 'ear-bleeding country' classic from 1987.
Review of Dinosaur Jr's 'ear-bleeding country' classic from 1987.
Vetiver 'Tight Knit'
'Tight Knit' plays like the musical equivalent of building a model aeroplane: precious and painstaking.
'Tight Knit' plays like the musical equivalent of building a model aeroplane: precious and painstaking.
Definitive Albums: Television
At once fiercely punk and shaggily psychedelic, Television’s magnum opus transcends the time-and-place in which it was made.
At once fiercely punk and shaggily psychedelic, Television’s magnum opus transcends the time-and-place in which it was made.
Constellation Records Profile
Chronicle of Canadian post-rock powerhouse Constellation Records.
Chronicle of Canadian post-rock powerhouse Constellation Records.
Max Tundra Interview
An entertaining chat with the London electro-pop midget about death, drugs, Amy Winehouse, and Coldplay lyrics.
An entertaining chat with the London electro-pop midget about death, drugs, Amy Winehouse, and Coldplay lyrics.
Definitive: Belle & Sebastian
The Scottish pop outfit's second LP is one of the greatest records ever committed to disc.
The Scottish pop outfit's second LP is one of the greatest records ever committed to disc.
My Bloody Valentine 'Loveless'
My Bloody Valentine's all-time-classic second album changed the way a whole generation of artists looked at the guitar.
My Bloody Valentine's all-time-classic second album changed the way a whole generation of artists looked at the guitar.
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'
Conor Oberst 'Conor Oberst'
Conor Oberst's first solo album since his adolescence is a dire, tired embrace of musical middle-age.
Conor Oberst's first solo album since his adolescence is a dire, tired embrace of musical middle-age.
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.
Bon Iver Tours Everywhere
Summer 2008 tour dates for Bon Iver.
Summer 2008 tour dates for Bon Iver.
Spiritualized - Artist Profile
Chronicle of Jason Pierce's grandiose gospel-space-rock-soul outfit Spiritualized, from post-Spacemen 3 beginnings to his near-death experiences.
Chronicle of Jason Pierce's grandiose gospel-space-rock-soul outfit Spiritualized, from post-Spacemen 3 beginnings to his near-death experiences.
Spiritualized Play High Show
Never one for subtle symbolism, Jason Pierce commands his space-cadets up all 144 storeys of Toronto's CN Tower.
Never one for subtle symbolism, Jason Pierce commands his space-cadets up all 144 storeys of Toronto's CN Tower.
Definitive LPs: The Raincoats
Best known for diffusing punk's heaving machismo, the Raincoats' remarkable, ramshackle debut summons a peculiar musical magic.
Best known for diffusing punk's heaving machismo, the Raincoats' remarkable, ramshackle debut summons a peculiar musical magic.
Jeffrey Lewis - Artist Profile
Profile of NY's "maker of comic books, tragi-comic folk narratives, and acoustic psychedelia."
Profile of NY's "maker of comic books, tragi-comic folk narratives, and acoustic psychedelia."