Alternative Music: Most Popular Articles
These articles are the most popular over the last month.
Top 30 Albums of 2009
2009 featured an avalanche of inspiring music made by independent artists out to cross boundaries, break down borders, and dance long into the strange, weird, beautiful night...
2009 featured an avalanche of inspiring music made by independent artists out to cross boundaries, break down borders, and dance long into the strange, weird, beautiful night...
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.
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.
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.
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.
Vampire Weekend Interview
The VW frontman defends himself against charges of cultural appropriation.
The VW frontman defends himself against charges of cultural appropriation.
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.
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.
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.
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'.
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 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.
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.
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.
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?
Definitive Albums: Cat Power
Chan Marshall's spooked séance is a suite of songs sweated out in the middle of an Australian summer.
Chan Marshall's spooked séance is a suite of songs sweated out in the middle of an Australian summer.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Cat Power Interview
Working on her ninth album, the Cat Power songstress is reminded of making her classic 'Moon Pix' LP 12 years earlier.
Working on her ninth album, the Cat Power songstress is reminded of making her classic 'Moon Pix' LP 12 years earlier.
Nirvana - Artist Profile
Profile of the life and death of the alternative legends
Profile of the life and death of the alternative legends
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 - 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.
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.
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.
Definitive LPs: Vashti Bunyan
Lost in oblivion for nearly three decades, Bunyan's magical debut has been granted an almost holy status by smitten listeners.
Lost in oblivion for nearly three decades, Bunyan's magical debut has been granted an almost holy status by smitten listeners.
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.
Discovery 'LP'
Vampire Weekend + Ra Ra Riot + Copious Amounts of Auto-Tune = Discovery.
Vampire Weekend + Ra Ra Riot + Copious Amounts of Auto-Tune = Discovery.
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!
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.'
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.
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.
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.
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'.
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.
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.
10 Alternative Starter Albums
Top 10 Starter Alternative Albums
Top 10 Starter Alternative Albums
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
'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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
The Decemberists Interview
With the release of 'The Hazards of Love,' Meloy welcomes his "belated metal phase."
With the release of 'The Hazards of Love,' Meloy welcomes his "belated metal phase."
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.
Lightning Bolt Interview
The Bolt's drummer/vocalist on playing on stages and off, and why it's good to take two-year breaks now and then.
The Bolt's drummer/vocalist on playing on stages and off, and why it's good to take two-year breaks now and then.
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?
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.
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.
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."
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.
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.
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.
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.
Constellation Records Profile
Chronicle of Canadian post-rock powerhouse Constellation Records.
Chronicle of Canadian post-rock powerhouse Constellation Records.
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.
The Flaming Lips 'Embryonic'
For most, the double album is a place to harness one’s conceptual ideas. For Wayne Coyne, it's a chance to deliberately lose the plot.
For most, the double album is a place to harness one’s conceptual ideas. For Wayne Coyne, it's a chance to deliberately lose the plot.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.'
Bat for Lashes - Profile
History of glamorous English songstress Natasha Khan.
History of glamorous English songstress Natasha Khan.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Mogwai Interview
The guitarist of the Scottish post-rock heroes is howling.
The guitarist of the Scottish post-rock heroes is howling.
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.
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.
Pitchfork Reviews Jet
When urination says it all for the retro-rock generation.
When urination says it all for the retro-rock generation.
The Power of Salad
Playing in and amongst the crowd, Lightning Bolt draw as much attention to the audience as to themselves.
Playing in and amongst the crowd, Lightning Bolt draw as much attention to the audience as to themselves.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Julian Plenti 'Is Skyscraper'
From Garth Brooks as Chris Gaines to Beyoncé Knowles as Sasha Fierce, the musical alter-ego has a long and pitiful history.
From Garth Brooks as Chris Gaines to Beyoncé Knowles as Sasha Fierce, the musical alter-ego has a long and pitiful history.
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?
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.
Why? Interview
Why?'s wordy lyricist talks sessions with his psychologist, laying out neurosis, and handling Woody Allen comparisons.
Why?'s wordy lyricist talks sessions with his psychologist, laying out neurosis, and handling Woody Allen comparisons.
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.
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.
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.
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."
Hope Sandoval/Warm Inventions
Where the Mazzy Star starlet's every whisper is as tangible yet elusive as the breeze.
Where the Mazzy Star starlet's every whisper is as tangible yet elusive as the breeze.
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.
Online Guide- The Hype Machine
The mp3-collating gateway to the blogosphere.
The mp3-collating gateway to the blogosphere.
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Dean Wareham Interview
The longtime Luna frontman dishes the dirt on his rock'n'roll memoir 'Black Postcards.'
The longtime Luna frontman dishes the dirt on his rock'n'roll memoir 'Black Postcards.'
Dr. Dog Interview
The frontman for Philly's goodtime retro-pop jamboree talks life on the road, vintage volume knobs, and whether he's really living the rock'n'roll dream.
The frontman for Philly's goodtime retro-pop jamboree talks life on the road, vintage volume knobs, and whether he's really living the rock'n'roll dream.
El Perro del Mar Interview
Sarah Assbring talks about her first three LPs: the sad one, the happy one, and the break-up record.
Sarah Assbring talks about her first three LPs: the sad one, the happy one, and the break-up record.
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."
Stereolab: Live! In Late-'08
North American Tour dates for English indie-pop institution Stereolab.
North American Tour dates for English indie-pop institution Stereolab.
Christmas on Mars
The Flaming Lips' first-ever feature film is a low-budget oddity that has more to do with underground cinema than underground music.
The Flaming Lips' first-ever feature film is a low-budget oddity that has more to do with underground cinema than underground music.
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.
Tortoise - Artist Profile
A career-long look at Chicago's genre-razing, forever-experimental instrumentalists.
A career-long look at Chicago's genre-razing, forever-experimental instrumentalists.
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.
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.
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."
Definitive Albums: Skip Spence
Spence's schizophrenia-addled suite of half-finished songs sold almost no copies in its day, yet ended up influencing the entire lo-fi movement.
Spence's schizophrenia-addled suite of half-finished songs sold almost no copies in its day, yet ended up influencing the entire lo-fi movement.
Definitive: Public Image Ltd.
The continued celebration and canonization of the Sex Pistols has made one thing clear: history's picked the wrong band.
The continued celebration and canonization of the Sex Pistols has made one thing clear: history's picked the wrong band.
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.
Definitive LPs: Elliott Smith
Not merely some cry-for-help, 'Either/Or' is a near-perfect pop record.
Not merely some cry-for-help, 'Either/Or' is a near-perfect pop record.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Jeffrey Lewis ''Em Are I'
Once again, the anti-folk bard searches for the silver lining on a dark cloud.
Once again, the anti-folk bard searches for the silver lining on a dark cloud.
Definitive Albums: Galaxie 500
Capturing Galaxie 500's tender, swirling psychedelia at its best, 'On Fire' echoes with a quiet, humble perfection.
Capturing Galaxie 500's tender, swirling psychedelia at its best, 'On Fire' echoes with a quiet, humble perfection.
Stereolab 'Chemical Chords'
Stereolab's latest longplayer sounds exactly like every other record they've ever made. But it's not exactly like every other record they've ever made.
Stereolab's latest longplayer sounds exactly like every other record they've ever made. But it's not exactly like every other record they've ever made.
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.
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.