The Best Instrumental Rock Bands
The Ventures, often considered the pioneers of instrumental rock, have been mesmerizing listeners with their innovative guitar techniques since the late 1950s. Hailing from Tacoma, Washington, the band expertly incorporates elements of surf rock and classic twangy-guitar driven melodies to create a signature sound that has stood the test of time. Their iconic hit "Walk, Don't Run" solidified their place in the annals of instrumental rock history, inspiring generations of musicians to follow in their footsteps. With an extensive discography spanning over 60 years, The Ventures have proven to be a seminal force in the evolution of rock music and remain one of the heavyweight champions of instrumental rock.
Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From The Ventures
- "Walk, Don't Run"
- "Hawaii Five -O"
- "Perfidia"Dive Into The Ventures' History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
- "Ghost Riders in the Sky"
- "The Cruel Sea"More The Ventures
- #256 of 863 onThe 250+ Greatest Rock Bands Of All Time, Ranked
- #180 of 238 onThe Greatest American Rock Bands
- #150 of 239 onEvery Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame Inductee, Ranked
- 2
The Mahavishnu Orchestra
Led by the legendary guitarist John McLaughlin, The Mahavishnu Orchestra burst onto the scene in the early 1970s as a groundbreaking fusion of jazz, rock, and Indian classical music. Renowned for their complex compositions and intricate interplay between musicians, the band exhibited a level of virtuosity seldom seen in the instrumental rock realm. Tracks such as "Meeting of the Spirits" and "Birds of Fire" showcase the group's unparalleled ability to seamlessly blend genres and push the boundaries of conventional rock music. By challenging the traditional norms and expanding the horizons of instrumental rock, The Mahavishnu Orchestra has secured its place amongst the all-time greats.
Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From The Mahavishnu Orchestra
- "Birds of Fire"
- "Meeting of the Spirits"
- "Celestial Terrestrial Commuters"Dive Into The Mahavishnu Orchestra's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
- "Resolution"
- "Open Country Joy" As the house band for the legendary Stax Records during the 1960s, Booker T. & the M.G.'s brought a soulful, groovy flavor to instrumental rock that was simply irresistible. Driven by the masterful keyboard work of Booker T. Jones and the tight rhythm section of Steve Cropper, Donald "Duck" Dunn, and Al Jackson Jr., the band crafted timeless hits such as "Green Onions" and "Hip Hug-Her." Their infectious sound not only complemented the vocal talents of Stax artists like Otis Redding and Sam & Dave, but also stood strong on its own as a testament to the power of instrumental rock. To this day, their unique brand of soul-infused rock continues to inspire musicians and delight audiences around the world.
Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Booker T. & the M.G.'s
- "Green Onions"
- "Time Is Tight"
- "Hip Hug -Her"Dive Into Booker T. & the M.G.'s History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
- "Melting Pot"
- "Soul Limbo"- #136 of 1,150 onThe Greatest Musical Artists Of All Time, Ranked
- #167 of 238 onThe Greatest American Rock Bands
- #161 of 239 onEvery Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame Inductee, Ranked
- 4
The Surfaris
The Surfaris, a Southern California-based band that emerged in the early 1960s, are best known for their iconic hit "Wipe Out," which solidified their place in rock history with its frantic drum solo and upbeat surf rock sound. Their ability to seamlessly blend the energy of rock and roll with the sun-soaked vibes of the California coast helped cement the popularity of instrumental surf rock during its heyday. The Surfaris undoubtedly left a lasting impact on the genre, inspiring musicians from various backgrounds to incorporate surf rock elements into their own works. As one of the pioneers of instrumental surf rock, The Surfaris' legacy continues to thrive in the modern music landscape.
Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From The Surfaris
- "Wipe Out"
- "Surfer Joe"
- "Point Panic"Dive Into The Surfaris' History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
- "Surfer's Stomp"
- "Murphy The Surfie"More The Surfaris- #211 of 238 onThe Greatest American Rock Bands
- #8 of 43 onThe Best Bands Named After Sports Terminology
- #9 of 63 onThe 60+ Best Surfing Music Bands, Ranked
As pioneers of the British instrumental rock scene, The Shadows left an indelible mark on the music world with their innovative use of echo and reverb, providing a lush and distinctive sound that would influence countless bands to come. Their 1960 hit "Apache" remains a classic example of how the band skillfully combined surf rock with a subtle touch of melancholy, carving out a niche in the instrumental rock landscape that was entirely their own. Serving as Cliff Richard's backing band for many years, The Shadows contributed significantly to popularizing the genre in the UK and beyond. Their timeless appeal and groundbreaking sound make them an essential addition to any list of the best instrumental rock bands.
Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From The Shadows
- "Apache"
- "Kon -Tiki"
- "F.B.I."Dive Into The Shadows' History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
- "Atlantis"
- "Scarcely out of Monday"Link Wray, the undisputed king of gritty guitar, is considered one of the most innovative and influential instrumental rock guitarists of all time. His groundbreaking use of power chords and distortion on tracks like "Rumble" paved the way for the development of hard rock and punk music in the decades to come. With a career spanning over four decades, Wray consistently pushed the boundaries of what was possible with six strings, leaving an indelible mark on the world of instrumental rock. As both an originator and a trailblazer, Link Wray's contributions to the genre have earned him a deserved spot among the greatest instrumental rock artists.
Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Link Wray
- "Rumble"
- "Jack the Ripper"
- "Raw -Hide"Dive Into Link Wray's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
- "The Swag"
- "Ace of Spades"More Link Wray- #186 of 385 onThe Greatest Lead Guitarists Of All Time
- #209 of 536 onThe 540+ World's Greatest Guitarists Of All Time, Ranked
- #9 of 217 onThe Best Instrumental Rock Bands/Artists
Having emerged as one of the most versatile and dexterous guitarists of all time, Jeff Beck has spent his illustrious career weaving in and out of genres while still maintaining his signature style. From his early work with The Yardbirds to his ventures in jazz-rock fusion and beyond, Beck's unparalleled mastery of the guitar has produced countless instrumental rock gems such as "Beck's Bolero" and "Cause We've Ended as Lovers." With a seemingly endless capacity for reinvention and experimentation, Jeff Beck has pushed the boundaries of instrumental rock and inspired generations of guitarists in the process. Undoubtedly, his contributions to the world of music have solidified his status as one of the best instrumental rock artists.
Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Jeff Beck
- "Beck's Bolero"
- "Freeway Jam"
- "Cause We've Ended As Lovers"Dive Into Jeff Beck's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
- "The Pump"
- "Scatterbrain"More Jeff Beck- Dig Deeper...The Best Songs on Jeff Beck and Johnny Depp's Album '18'
- #6 of 385 onThe Greatest Lead Guitarists Of All Time
- #155 of 863 onThe 250+ Greatest Rock Bands Of All Time, Ranked
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The Tornados
The Tornados, a British instrumental rock band formed in the early 1960s, took the world by storm with their futuristic soundscapes and innovative production techniques. Their smash hit "Telstar," an ode to the groundbreaking satellite of the same name, captured the imagination of listeners with its space-age melodies and swirling, otherworldly sounds. The band's inventive use of electronic instruments, including the clavioline and the theremin, paved the way for future generations of musicians to explore the boundless potential of technology in instrumental rock. As pioneers of the electronic age, The Tornados have left an indelible impact on the genre and are undoubtedly among the best instrumental rock bands in history.
Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From The Tornados
- "Telstar"
- "Robot"
- "The Ice Cream Man"Dive Into The Tornados' History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
- "Locomotion With You"
- "Scalping Party"More The Tornados- #232 of 238 onThe Greatest American Rock Bands
- #7 of 217 onThe Best Instrumental Rock Bands/Artists
- #14 of 81 onThe 80+ Best Surf Rock Bands, Ranked
Dick Dale, widely regarded as the "King of Surf Guitar," revolutionized instrumental rock by injecting the raw power and intensity of the ocean into his high-speed surf rock melodies. His unique approach to guitar playing, characterized by rapid-fire picking, reverb-drenched tones, and distinctive use of Middle Eastern scales, can be heard on classics such as "Misirlou" and "The Wedge." Dale's impact on the genre is nothing short of monumental, as his innovative techniques and sounds influenced countless musicians and helped define the surf rock style. With a career spanning over 50 years, Dick Dale's unrelenting passion for instrumental rock has made him an icon and a true legend in the genre.
Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Dick Dale
- "Misirlou"
- "Let's Go Trippin'"
- "Surf Beat"Dive Into Dick Dale's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
- "Night Rider"
- "The Wedge"More Dick Dale- Dig Deeper...Straight Edge Celebrities
- #104 of 385 onThe Greatest Lead Guitarists Of All Time
- #271 of 863 onThe 250+ Greatest Rock Bands Of All Time, Ranked
Hailing from New Orleans, The Meters brought a distinctive blend of funk, soul, and groove to the world of instrumental rock in the late 1960s. With their raw, stripped-down approach to rhythm and melody, the band crafted infectious grooves that remain as irresistible today as they were at the height of their popularity. Tracks like "Cissy Strut" and "Look-Ka Py Py" showcase the band's incredible musicianship and ability to create timeless, danceable tunes. As one of the pioneers of funk-infused instrumental rock, The Meters' unique sound and enduring influence have secured their place among the greats in the genre.
Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From The Meters
- "Cissy Strut"
- "Look -Ka Py Py"
- "Funky Miracle"Dive Into The Meters' History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
- "Rigor Mortis"
- "Africa"More The Meters- #824 of 863 onThe 250+ Greatest Rock Bands Of All Time, Ranked
- #29 of 36 onThe Best Musical Artists From Louisiana
- #19 of 50 onThe Best Funk Bands/Artists
The Outlaws, often referred to as the "Florida Guitar Army," brought their unique blend of Southern rock and intricate harmony guitar work to the world of instrumental rock in the 1970s. Known for their epic, expansive compositions and high-energy live performances, the band showcased its exceptional guitar skills on tracks like "Green Grass and High Tides" and "Waterhole." The Outlaws' melding of Southern rock flair with the complexities of progressive rock made them an undeniable force in the instrumental rock genre. Their influence on future generations of guitarists – particularly in the realm of twin-guitar harmonies – continues to be felt today, making them one of the greatest instrumental rock bands of all time.
Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From The Outlaws
- "Green Grass and High Tides"
- "There Goes Another Love Song"
- "(Ghost) Riders in the Sky"Dive Into The Outlaws' History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
- "Grey Ghost"
- "Hurry Sundown"Joe Satriani, often hailed as the modern guitar virtuoso, has been pushing the boundaries of instrumental rock since the 1980s with his mind-bending technical prowess and emotive melodies. His best-selling instrumental albums, such as Surfing with the Alien and Flying in a Blue Dream, showcased his seamless integration of virtuosic technique with memorable hooks and soaring, expressive melodies. Satriani's influence on the genre cannot be overstated, as he has inspired countless guitarists to pursue their own instrumental rock dreams. As a true innovator and ambassador for the genre, he epitomizes the best of instrumental rock.
Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Joe Satriani
- "Surfing with the Alien"
- "Always with Me, Always with You"
- "Summer Song"Dive Into Joe Satriani's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
- "The Mystic"
- "Time Machine"More Joe Satriani- #19 of 385 onThe Greatest Lead Guitarists Of All Time
- #247 of 863 onThe 250+ Greatest Rock Bands Of All Time, Ranked
- #101 of 262 onThe Greatest Heavy Metal Bands Of All Time
Return to Forever, formed in the early 1970s by visionary keyboardist Chick Corea, represented the cutting edge of cross-genre fusion, blending elements of jazz, rock, and Latin music into an exhilarating tapestry of sound. With their ever-evolving lineup of virtuoso musicians – including bass legend Stanley Clarke and guitarist Al Di Meola – the band never ceased to push the boundaries of what was possible in the realm of instrumental rock. Classics like "Romantic Warrior" and "Hymn of the Seventh Galaxy" still stand today as testaments to their extraordinary creativity and fearlessness in pushing the genre forward. The impact of Return to Forever on instrumental rock is immeasurable, and their place among the greats is unquestionable.
Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Return to Forever
- "Romantic Warrior"
- "Spain"
- "The Musician"Dive Into Return to Forever's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
- "Duel of The Jester and The Tyrant"
- "Vulcan Worlds"Croatian instrumental rock quartet The Bambi Molesters bring their unique blend of surf rock, spaghetti western, and film noir influences to the genre, creating a distinctive and energizing sound. Since the 1990s, the group has captivated audiences with their atmospheric compositions and dynamic live performances, tracks like "Wanganui" and "Chaotica" showcasing their ability to evoke vivid images and emotions through their music. Their authentic and innovative approach to the surf-rock genre has made The Bambi Molesters essential contributors to the modern instrumental rock landscape.
Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From The Bambi Molesters
- "Chaotica"
- "Pearl Divin'"
- "Point of No Return"Dive Into The Bambi Molesters' History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
- "Ice Core Scientist"
- "The Crushing Coral"Steve Vai, a guitarist whose unparalleled technical ability is matched only by his boundless creativity, has consistently pushed the limits of what can be achieved in instrumental rock since his debut album Flex-Able in 1984. Having honed his skills under the tutelage of guitar maestro Frank Zappa, Vai quickly established himself as a force to be reckoned with in the genre. His jaw-dropping compositions, such as "For the Love of God" and "Tender Surrender," exhibit not only his remarkable guitar skills but also his ability to convey a wide range of emotions through his music. As a true virtuoso and visionary in the realm of instrumental rock, Steve Vai's contributions to the genre stand as some of the most impressive and inspiring ever recorded.
Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Steve Vai
- "Tender Surrender"
- "For the Love of God"
- "The Attitude Song"Dive Into Steve Vai's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
- "Audience is Listening"
- "Frank"More Steve Vai- #15 of 385 onThe Greatest Lead Guitarists Of All Time
- #416 of 863 onThe 250+ Greatest Rock Bands Of All Time, Ranked
- #20 of 536 onThe 540+ World's Greatest Guitarists Of All Time, Ranked
Larry Coryell, often referred to as the "Godfather of Fusion," was a trailblazing force in the world of instrumental rock throughout the late 1960s and beyond. His unique fusion of jazz, rock, blues, and classical styles helped to forge a new direction for guitar-driven instrumental music, characterized by complex harmonies and innovative improvisational techniques. From his pioneering work with The Eleventh House to his extensive solo career, Coryell consistently pushed the boundaries of what was possible within the instrumental rock realm. His long-lasting impact on the genre is evident in the countless guitarists who have cited him as an influence, making him an unparalleled figure in the world of instrumental rock.
Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Larry Coryell
- "Spaces (Infinite)"
- "Julie La Belle”
- "The Lift"Dive Into Larry Coryell's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
- "Bolero"
- "Fairfield County Blues"More Larry Coryell- #16 of 49 onThe Greatest Jazz Guitarists of All Time
- #33 of 40 onThe Best Jazz Guitarists in the World
- #37 of 72 onWho Is The Most Famous Larry In The World.
Buckethead, the enigmatic and prolific guitarist known for his distinctive bucket-wearing stage persona, has been defying convention in the world of instrumental rock for over three decades. With a seemingly limitless well of creativity, he has released over 300 solo albums, spanning a vast array of styles, from heavy metal to ambient soundscapes. His extraordinary technique and ability to conjure up haunting, otherworldly melodies on tracks such as "Soothsayer" and "Jordan" have cemented his status as one of the most innovative and unique artists in the genre. Buckethead's unorthodox approach to both his music and his image make him a true original in the world of instrumental rock.
Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Buckethead
- "Soothsayer"
- "Nottingham Lace"
- "Whitewash"Dive Into Buckethead's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
- "Ballad of Buckethead"
- "Frozen Brains Tell No Tales"More Buckethead- Dig Deeper...335+ Famous Taurus Historical Figures
- #105 of 385 onThe Greatest Lead Guitarists Of All Time
- #189 of 536 onThe 540+ World's Greatest Guitarists Of All Time, Ranked
Godspeed You! Black Emperor, a Montreal-based collective, has been pushing the boundaries of instrumental rock since the mid-1990s with their expansive, cinematic compositions. Often incorporating elements of drone, post-rock, and experimental music, the group creates lush sonic landscapes that unfold gradually, evoking emotions, and transporting listeners to another world. Tracks like "Storm" and "East Hastings" showcase the band's ability to weave intricate narratives without the need for lyrics, making them standout performers in the realm of instrumental rock. Their innovative approach to songwriting and dedication to exploring new sonic territories have solidified their place among the best in the genre.
Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Godspeed You! Black Emperor
- "East Hastings"
- "Storm"
- "The Dead Flag Blues"Dive Into Godspeed You! Black Emperor's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
- "Moya"
- "Motherf*****=Redeemer (Part 2)"- #983 of 1,150 onThe Greatest Musical Artists Of All Time, Ranked
- #29 of 39 onThe Best Bands Named After Movies
- #148 of 215 onThe 200+ Best Indie Artists Of All Time, Ranked
English multi-instrumentalist and composer Mike Oldfield redefined what was possible within the realm of instrumental rock when he released his groundbreaking debut album Tubular Bells in 1973. Displaying an unprecedented level of compositional skill and technical prowess, Oldfield single-handedly crafted an epic, 49-minute masterpiece that seamlessly wove together elements of rock, folk, progressive, and classical music. With subsequent releases such as "Ommadawn" and "Amarok," Oldfield continued to push the boundaries of the genre, experimenting with diverse styles and incorporating a vast array of instruments into his work. His pioneering approach to instrumental rock has left an indelible mark on the genre, securing his place among the all-time greats.
Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Mike Oldfield
- "Tubular Bells (Part One)"
- "Moonlight Shadow"
- "Hergest Ridge"Dive Into Mike Oldfield's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
- "Five Miles Out"
- "Sailor's Hornpipe"More Mike Oldfield- #292 of 385 onThe Greatest Lead Guitarists Of All Time
- #443 of 863 onThe 250+ Greatest Rock Bands Of All Time, Ranked
- #969 of 1,150 onThe Greatest Musical Artists Of All Time, Ranked
Chicago-based trio Russian Circles expertly blend elements of post-rock, heavy metal, and ambient soundscapes to create a captivating and immersive instrumental rock experience. Renowned for their dynamic live performances, the band effortlessly shifts between delicate, intricate melodies and thunderous, crushing riffs on tracks such as "Enter" and "Geneva." Their unique approach to instrumental rock challenges preconceived notions of the genre while simultaneously expanding its boundaries. Russian Circles' powerful combination of melody and intensity make them one of the most innovative and compelling instrumental rock bands in recent years.
Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Russian Circles
- "Mlàdek"
- "Harper Lewis"
- "Afrika"Dive Into Russian Circles' History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
- "Youngblood"
- "309"Texan post-rock quartet Explosions in the Sky have been captivating audiences with their sweeping, cinematic soundscapes since the late 1990s. Known for their intricate layering of guitars and dynamic crescendos, the band expertly crafts emotive musical narratives that resonate deeply with listeners. Tracks like "Your Hand in Mine" and "The Only Moment We Were Alone" exemplify the group's ability to create poignant, evocative journeys without the need for lyrics. With their innovative approach to instrumental songwriting and powerful emotional resonance, Explosions in the Sky have earned their place among the best in the genre.
Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Explosions in the Sky
- "Your Hand in Mine"
- "First Breath After Coma"
- "The Only Moment We Were Alone"Dive Into Explosions in the Sky's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
- "Look Into The Air"
- "Greet Death"- #858 of 863 onThe 250+ Greatest Rock Bands Of All Time, Ranked
- #194 of 215 onThe 200+ Best Indie Artists Of All Time, Ranked
- #20 of 217 onThe Best Instrumental Rock Bands/Artists
Formed in the early 1970s by guitarist Steve Morse and bassist Andy West, Dixie Dregs transcended traditional genre boundaries by fusing elements of rock, jazz, blues, and classical music into a distinctive and exhilarating sound. With their virtuosic musicianship and intricate compositions, the band crafted instrumental masterpieces such as "Refried Funky Chicken" and "Cruise Control." The Dixie Dregs' diverse influences and genre-crossing innovation proved instrumental in expanding the horizons of instrumental rock, making them one of the most groundbreaking and influential bands within the genre.
Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Dixie Dregs
- "Ice Cakes"
- "Take it Off the Top"
- "Free Fall"Dive Into Dixie Dregs' History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
- "Travel Tunes"
- "Refried Funky Chicken"Irish post-rock trio God is an Astronaut have been pushing the boundaries of instrumental rock since their formation in 2002. Their unique blend of ethereal atmospheres, heavy riffs, and electronic elements create a mesmerizing sonic experience that captivates listeners from beginning to end. Songs like "All is Violent, All is Bright" and "Fragile" showcase the band's ability to craft intricate, emotionally-charged soundscapes that challenge and expand the limits of the genre. With their innovative and captivating approach to instrumental rock, God is an Astronaut has established themselves as a seminal voice in the realm of post-rock.
Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From God is an Astronaut
- "All Is Violent, All Is Bright"
- "Fragile"
- "Echoes"Dive Into God is an Astronaut's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
- "Zodiac"
- "Suicide By Star"Gentle Giant, one of the most innovative and experimental progressive rock bands of the 1970s, made their mark on instrumental rock with their intricate, genre-defying compositions and virtuosic musicianship. Drawing from a diverse range of influences, including rock, jazz, classical, and medieval music, the band crafted complex, multi-layered masterpieces such as "On Reflection" and "Knots." Known for their ambitious and unconventional arrangements, Gentle Giant pushed the boundaries of the genre and inspired a generation of musicians to explore new territories in instrumental rock. Their lasting impact and distinctive sound make them one of the genre's most enduring and influential acts.
Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Gentle Giant
- "Knots"
- "Pantagruel's Nativity"
- "Proclamation"Dive Into Gentle Giant's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
- "Alucard"
- "Playing the Game"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
- 25
Scottish post-rock pioneers Mogwai have been bending genre conventions and creating dense, cinematic soundscapes since the mid-1990s. Their unique approach to instrumental rock, which often incorporates elements of noise, drone, and ambient music, has earned them legions of devoted fans around the world. Tracks like "2 Rights Make 1 Wrong" and "Mogwai Fear Satan" showcase the band's ability to create expansive, emotionally evocative journeys that transcend traditional rock structures. Their experimental spirit and continually evolving sound have solidified Mogwai's status as one of the most influential and groundbreaking instrumental rock bands of all time.
Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Mogwai
- "Hunted by a Freak"
- "Auto Rock"
- "Remurdered"Dive Into Mogwai's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
- "Travel is Dangerous"
- "Stanley Kubrick"More Mogwai- #719 of 874 onThe 250+ Greatest Rock Bands Of All Time, Ranked
- #51 of 100 onThe Best Alternative & Indie Bands of the 1990s
- #30 of 39 onThe Best Bands Named After Movies
Washington, D.C.-based progressive metal band Animals as Leaders have been redefining the possibilities of instrumental rock since their formation in 2007. Led by virtuoso guitarist Tosin Abasi, the trio combines elements of metal, jazz fusion, and electronic music to craft intricate, genre-defying compositions that showcase their staggering technical prowess. Tracks like "CAFO" and "Physical Education" exhibit the band's unique ability to seamlessly weave together complex rhythms, intricate melodies, and jaw-dropping displays of musicianship. With their innovative approach to instrumental rock and unwavering dedication to pushing the boundaries of the genre, Animals as Leaders stand as one of the most formidable forces in modern instrumental music.
Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Animals as Leaders
- "CAFO"
- "Tempting Time"
- "The Woven Web"Dive Into Animals as Leaders' History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
- "Tooth and Claw"
- "Song of Solomon"Formed in 1997 as a high-profile collaboration between members of Dream Theater, King Crimson, and Dixie Dregs, Liquid Tension Experiment set out to push the boundaries of instrumental rock through their virtuosic interplay and genre-defying compositions. Drawing from a diverse range of influences, including progressive rock, jazz fusion, and metal, the supergroup crafted epic, intricately-woven tracks such as "Paradigm Shift" and "When the Water Breaks." Their two studio albums stand as shining examples of the limitless potential of instrumental rock when explored by some of the finest musicians in their respective fields. As a testament to their musical prowess and innovative spirit, Liquid Tension Experiment stands as one of the most revered projects in the genre.
Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Liquid Tension Experiment
- "Paradigm Shift"
- "Acid Rain"
- "Universal Mind"Dive Into Liquid Tension Experiment's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
- "Three Minute Warning"
- "When the Water Breaks"- 28
Hailing from Chicago, post-metal band Pelican has been forging a distinct path in the world of instrumental rock since the early 2000s. Their powerful, atmospheric soundscapes are built on a foundation of crushing riffs, dynamic melodies, and intricate song structures. Tracks like "Dead Between the Walls" and "Last Day of Winter" exemplify the group's ability to create emotive, expansive journeys that resonate deeply with listeners. By blending elements of metal, post-rock, and sludge, Pelican has crafted a unique and compelling sound that has earned them a devoted following within the instrumental rock community.
Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Pelican
- "The Creeper"
- "Australasia"
- "Drought"Dive Into Pelican's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
- "City of Echoes"
- "Pink Mammoth"More Pelican- #39 of 61 onThe Best Bands Named After Birds
- #13 of 14 onRock Bands With The Coolest Custom Beers
- #33 of 143 onThe 100+ Best Sludge Metal Bands, Ranked
Widely regarded as one of the most technically proficient and expressive guitarists of all time, Eric Johnson has been crafting masterful instrumental rock compositions for more than four decades. His signature fusion of rock, jazz, blues, and country influences, combined with his unmistakable tone, has established him as a true innovator in the genre. Tracks like "Cliffs of Dover" and "Manhattan" showcase Johnson's astonishing guitar skills and his ability to merge virtuosity with memorable and evocative melodies. As a trailblazer and master of his craft, Eric Johnson stands as one of the all-time greats in the world of instrumental rock.
Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Eric Johnson
- "Cliffs of Dover"
- "Manhattan"
- "Camel's Night Out"Dive Into Eric Johnson's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
- "S.R.V."
- "High Landrons"More Eric Johnson- #63 of 385 onThe Greatest Lead Guitarists Of All Time
- #63 of 536 onThe 540+ World's Greatest Guitarists Of All Time, Ranked
- #40 of 172 onThe Best Metal Guitarists and Guitar Teams
- 30
Chicago-based band Tortoise has been at the forefront of experimental and instrumental rock since the early 1990s, pioneering the post-rock genre and pushing the boundaries of contemporary music. Their unique blend of influences, including jazz, krautrock, electronic, dub, and minimalist styles, allows them to create a distinctive sonic palette that is both innovative and captivating. Tracks like "Djed" and "I Set My Face to the Hillside" showcase the band's ability to weave together intricate, layered soundscapes that defy conventional categorization. With their distinctive sound and unwavering dedication to pushing the boundaries of the genre, Tortoise has earned their place amongst the best in the world of instrumental rock.
Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Tortoise
- "Djed"
- "I set My Face to the Hillside"
- "Salt the Skies"Dive Into Tortoise's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
- "Along the Banks of Rivers"
- "It's All Around You"
