The Best Underground Music Bands/Artists
- 1Noise rock, Blues-rock, Rock music
Undeniably influential in the world of alternative rock, The Velvet Underground crafted an avant-garde sound that defied contemporary musical norms. Often described as the pioneers of indie rock, their innovation and fusion of experimental rock, proto-punk, and a tinge of pop art have secured them a lasting legacy. With Lou Reed's evocative storytelling and John Cale's avant-garde twists, The Velvet Underground remains a staple in underground music history.
- Dig Deeper...The Best Velvet Underground Songs
- #187 of 863 onThe 250+ Greatest Rock Bands Of All Time, Ranked
- #607 of 1,150 onThe Greatest Musical Artists Of All Time, Ranked
- 2Noise rock, Rock music, No wave
Sonic Youth, a band synonymous with the birth of alternative rock, is revered for their innovative guitar techniques and deconstruction of traditional rock song structures. Formed in 1981, the band embraced the DIY spirit, producing records that explored the boundaries of noise and experimental rock. Their ability to merge dissonant sounds with subversive lyrics has resulted in a lasting impact on both underground and mainstream music scenes.
More Sonic Youth
- Dig Deeper...The Best Sonic Youth Songs of All Time
- #31 of 115 onThe Greatest Chick Rock Bands Ever
- #609 of 863 onThe 250+ Greatest Rock Bands Of All Time, Ranked
- 3Indie rock, Lo-fi, Alternative rock
When it comes to 90s indie rock, Pavement reigns supreme among fans and critics alike. Their witty, poetic lyrics coupled with lo-fi aesthetics and infectious melodies contributed to their cult-like following. Though they never gained mainstream popularity, Pavement's discography remains a testament to their unique sound, which has undoubtedly influenced numerous bands in the alternative scene.
More Pavement- #840 of 863 onThe 250+ Greatest Rock Bands Of All Time, Ranked
- #1010 of 1,150 onThe Greatest Musical Artists Of All Time, Ranked
- #270 of 307 onThe Greatest Musical Artists of the '90s
- 4Krautrock, Rock music, Electronic music
One of the pioneering bands of the German krautrock movement, CAN expertly blended an array of musical styles including avant-garde, minimalism, psychedelic rock, and world music. Known for their hypnotic and repetitive rhythms, improvised jam sessions, and innovative use of electronic elements, CAN has left an indelible mark on countless musicians and genres. Their groundbreaking approach to songwriting made them a force in the underground music scene of the late 1960s and 1970s.
More CAN- #715 of 863 onThe 250+ Greatest Rock Bands Of All Time, Ranked
- #1018 of 1,150 onThe Greatest Musical Artists Of All Time, Ranked
- #140 of 248 onThe Most Hipster Bands
- 5
The Residents
Noise rock, Rock music, Experimental rockSince their inception in the early 1970s, The Residents have maintained an air of enigma, choosing to remain anonymous and letting their avant-garde music speak for itself. Through their experimental sound collages, multimedia projects, and surreal stage shows, The Residents have cultivated a dedicated following that cherishes their boundary-pushing ethos. As one of the most intriguing acts in the world of underground music, their legacy remains unmatched.
More The Residents- #206 of 229 onThe Best Punk Bands Of All Time
- #47 of 118 onThe 100+ Best Shock Rock Artists, Ranked
- #25 of 118 onThe Best Experimental Rock Bands/Artists
- 6Electronic, Techno, IDM
Aphex Twin, the moniker of enigmatic electronic musician Richard D. James, stands as an emblem of innovation in electronic music. Often considered a pioneer of the intelligent dance music (IDM) genre, James' work combines intricate beats, eerie soundscapes, and unorthodox song structures. His influence on underground and mainstream electronic artists alike is undeniable, making Aphex Twin a trailblazer in the world of experimental music.
More Aphex Twin- #297 of 307 onThe Greatest Musical Artists of the '90s
- #24 of 148 onThe Most Influential DJs of All Time
- #118 of 248 onThe Most Hipster Bands
- 7Krautrock, New Age music, Electronic music
As pioneers of the Berlin School of electronic music, Tangerine Dream defied categorization and paved the way for countless electronic and ambient artists. Founded in the late 1960s, this German group's kaleidoscopic soundscapes incorporated evolving synth patterns, atmospheric moods, and intricate sequencers. With an expansive and influential discography, Tangerine Dream remains a crucial pillar in the foundation of experimental and underground music.
More Tangerine Dream- #587 of 863 onThe 250+ Greatest Rock Bands Of All Time, Ranked
- #996 of 1,150 onThe Greatest Musical Artists Of All Time, Ranked
- #9 of 57 onThe Most Influential Electronic Music Pioneers
- 8Progressive rock
King Crimson's audacious blending of rock, jazz, and classical styles has earned them reverence within the progressive rock community since their formation in 1968. Their debut album, In the Court of the Crimson King, stands as a seminal work that defined the genre and continues to influence artists today. As a true innovator, King Crimson has left an indelible mark on the underground music scene through their daring approach to composition and performance.
More King Crimson- Dig Deeper...The Best King Crimson Songs
- #218 of 863 onThe 250+ Greatest Rock Bands Of All Time, Ranked
- #925 of 1,150 onThe Greatest Musical Artists Of All Time, Ranked
- 9New Wave, Gothic rock, Alternative rock
Emerging from the British post-punk scene of the early 1980s, And Also the Trees forged a path combining atmospheric guitar textures, brooding vocals, and introspective lyrics. Often linked with bands like The Cure and Joy Division, their signature sound is characterized by dark, poetic themes and a haunting musical landscape. And Also the Trees remain a compelling fixture in the annals of underground music.
- 10Underground music
As a founding member of Britain's iconic psychedelic rock band Tyrannosaurus Rex (later known as T.Rex), Steve Peregrin Took contributed to the development of the 1960s underground music scene with his enigmatic lyrics and percussive talents. Following his departure from the band, Took continued to make music, blending experimental, folk, and psychedelic influences. His contributions to the vibrant countercultural soundscape of that era are often overshadowed by the success of T.Rex, but remain a significant part of underground rock history.
- 11Experimental rock, Folk rock, Jazz fusion
With their virtuosic musicianship and intricate songwriting, Gentle Giant remains a beloved figure within the progressive rock community. Combining a vast array of diverse genres including rock, classical, jazz, and medieval music, their complex arrangements and innovative instrumentation continue to captivate fans of underground music. Their dedication to pushing musical boundaries cemented their status as a groundbreaking act in the world of progressive rock.
More Gentle Giant- #776 of 863 onThe 250+ Greatest Rock Bands Of All Time, Ranked
- #234 of 238 onThe Greatest Classic Rock Bands Of All Time, Ranked
- #21 of 138 onThe 150 Best Prog Rock Bands, Ranked
- 12Rock music, Garage rock, Protopunk
Widely considered the pioneers of psychedelic rock, the 13th Floor Elevators' distinct blend of garage rock, blues, and mind-expanding sounds made them a staple of the 1960s underground music scene. Though their career was short-lived, their groundbreaking approach to music proved to be highly influential on future generations of psychedelic and alternative bands. A true innovator in their time, the 13th Floor Elevators' legacy continues to inspire and captivate.
More 13th Floor Elevators- #219 of 238 onThe Greatest American Rock Bands
- #6 of 73 onThe Best Psychedelic Rock Bands
- #15 of 146 onThe 100+ Best Garage Rock Artists, Ranked
- 13Indie, Electronica, Underground music
Emerging at the turn of the millennium, Hybrasil has steadily gained recognition for their unique brand of psychedelic electronic music. Filtering elements of ambient, techno, and IDM through a kaleidoscopic lens, the Irish group's sonic explorations have garnered them a loyal following within the underground music community. Their mesmerizing live performances and constantly evolving soundscapes demonstrate their commitment to innovation.
- 14
Violators
Rock music, Classic Punk, Rock and rollFrom their early roots in 1980s UK punk rock, Violators quickly gained a reputation for their aggressive sound and rebellious stage presence. They merged punk's raw energy with post-punk's dark and atmospheric elements, creating a unique and powerful sound. Though the band's lifespan was short-lived, their contributions to the underground music scene live on through their lasting impact on punk and hardcore genres.
- 15Progressive rock
This progressive rock outfit's uncompromising dedication to pushing musical boundaries has earned them a devoted fan base and critical acclaim since their formation in the late 1960s. Instrumental prowess, complex song structures, and thought-provoking lyrics characterize Van der Graaf Generator's unique brand of art rock. Their continued experimentation and fusion of diverse styles has solidified their status as an icon in the underground music landscape.
- #793 of 863 onThe 250+ Greatest Rock Bands Of All Time, Ranked
- #60 of 138 onThe 150 Best Prog Rock Bands, Ranked
- #45 of 87 onThe Best Art Rock Bands & Artists of All Time
- 16Horror punk, Gothic rock, Post-industrial music
Cult legends in their own right, Radio Werewolf pushed the boundaries of dark, experimental music during the late 1980s and early 1990s. Merging elements of goth, industrial, and performance art, the band's output was as provocative as it was rare. Their evocative and controversial stage shows continue to hold a mystical appeal among fans of the underground scene.
- 17Pop punk, Dance-punk, Rock music
Hailing from Wales, The Automatic made waves in the mid-2000s indie rock scene with their infectious hooks, anthemic choruses, and energetic live performances. Despite some mainstream success, their commitment to artistic evolution and a refusal to be pigeonholed have kept them connected to their underground roots. Their unique blend of post-punk, alternative rock, and electronic elements continues to set them apart from their contemporaries.
- 18Psychedelic folk, Psychedelic rock, Underground music
Born from the psychedelic counterculture of London's late 1960s, Hapshash and the Coloured Coat brought together an array of artists and musicians to create a truly experimental musical experience. With their improvisational approach and blending of Eastern and Western sounds, this collective proved that boundaries were meant to be broken. Though relatively obscure, their freeform style remains a noteworthy example of the creative power within underground music.
- 19
Waterproof Blonde
Rock, Indie rock, Underground rockEmerging from the Louisville, Kentucky music scene in the early 2000s, Waterproof Blonde's ethereal, dreamy sound stood out among the fray of post-grunge and alternative rock bands. Vocalist Rachel Hagan's captivating voice and the band's atmospheric instrumentals provided a refreshing connection to fans seeking a more emotive and experimental sound. Though short-lived, Waterproof Blonde remains a noteworthy component of the underground music tapestry.
- 20Alternative country, Lo-fi music, Underground music
As a prolific singer-songwriter, Bill Callahan has been enchanting underground music fans for over three decades with his compelling narratives and lo-fi charm. Initially known by the moniker Smog, Callahan's distinctive baritone voice and poetic lyricism have culminated in a vast discography that spans folk, indie rock, and experimental genres. His introspective and oftentimes melancholic songs have solidified his status as a revered figure within the underground music community.
- 21
Európa Kiadó
New Wave, Underground musicFormed in Budapest in the early 1980s, Európa kiadó emerged as a leading force in Hungary's alternative music scene. Their deft blend of post-punk, new wave, and experimental influences led to a distinctive sound that resonated with fans seeking something beyond the mainstream. Európa kiadó's impact on the Hungarian underground music scene remains an essential part of the country's rich musical history.
- 22Noise rock, Folk rock, Russian rock
As a prominent figure in the Soviet-era underground punk rock movement, Yanka Dyagileva's raw and impassioned songs resonated with a generation yearning for change. Though she tragically passed away at a young age, her heartfelt lyrics and melodic approach to punk left a lasting influence on the Russian music scene. To this day, she remains a symbol of artistic defiance and authenticity in the face of adversity.
- 23
Big High
Rock music, Underground musicSeattle's Big High brought together members of various underground bands in the late 2000s, creating a sound that fused hard rock, grunge, and alternative. Their heavy yet melodic approach provided a fresh resurgence of the Seattle sound, earning them a devoted fan base in the process. Though no longer active, Big High's contributions to the underground music scene remain a testament to their powerful sonic legacy.
- 24Hip hop music, Alternative hip hop, Underground hip hop
Throughout the 1990s and early 2000s, Germany's Panacea consistently pushed the envelope of electronic music. As a key figure in the development of the breakcore genre, they layered frenetic breakbeats with industrial and techno influences, leaving an indelible mark on the underground music landscape. Their relentless energy and tireless experimentation make Panacea an essential part of electronic music history.
- 25Alternative metal, Funk metal, Experimental rock
Though they eventually achieved mainstream success, Faith No More's early days saw them honing a unique blend of alternative metal, funk, and experimental rock that made them a standout in the underground music scene. Incessant genre-bending and a refusal to conform to any one style allowed them to carve out their own niche, influencing countless bands that followed in their wake. With a dynamic vocal range from frontman Mike Patton and an overall fearless approach to their craft, Faith No More has left a lasting impact on the world of underground music.
More Faith No More- #423 of 863 onThe 250+ Greatest Rock Bands Of All Time, Ranked
- #946 of 1,150 onThe Greatest Musical Artists Of All Time, Ranked
- #51 of 307 onThe Greatest Musical Artists of the '90s
- 26Rock music, Underground music
Los Angeles' Pigmy Love Circus has been dishing out their high-octane blend of punk, metal, and rock since the 1980s. Affectionately dubbed "pig punk," their raucous sound and over-the-top stage shows have garnered them a dedicated fanbase, drawn to their unique brand of rock 'n' roll mayhem. Their uncompromising attitude and in-your-face aesthetic make Pigmy Love Circus an unforgettable fixture in the underground music scene.
- 27Doom metal, Industrial metal, Black metal
Hailing from the Czech Republic, Umbrtka is an eclectic underground act whose music blurs the lines between metal, experimental rock, and electronica. Formed in 1999, the band's eccentric sound and unconventional songwriting have garnered them an enthusiastic following within the European underground scene. Their innovative merging of styles showcases the wide-ranging potential of underground music.
- 28
A.E. Bizottság
As a prominent figure in Hungary's underground music scene during the 1980s, A.E. Bizottság's eclectic blend of post-punk, experimental, and electronic elements made them a force to be reckoned with. Their avant-garde approach to songwriting and thought-provoking lyrics offered a stark contrast to the conformist musical landscape of the era. A.E. Bizottság's contributions to Hungary's underground music culture remain an inspiring testament to the power of artistic defiance.
29Lois Maffeo
- 30
Calvin Johnson
