The Best Alternative Rock Bands Of 2020, Ranked

Jovaughn Brown
Updated December 14, 2023 30 items
Ranked By
2.6K votes
406 voters
Voting Rules
Vote up your favorite alt rockers in 2020.

Whether you like infectious guitar riffs or wry lyrics, the best alternative rock bands of 2020 have it all. The 2020 class of alt-rockers includes veteran acts, newcomers, and everyone in between. Some of the best alternative rock bands of 2020 have massive tours on the calendar while others, like Evanescence, are releasing highly anticipated new albums.

Everyone from the Foo Fighters to the Killers, and Maroon 5 to Imagine Dragons are making an epic splash in 2020. Living legends like Red Hot Chili Peppers, Green Day, and Weezer are also leaving their marks on the year with new music, as well as tours in North America and beyond. 

Which alt-rock band do you think will own 2020? Vote your favorite 2020 alternative rockers up to the top of this list and add any artists we may have missed.

  • Twenty One Pilots
    1

    Mixing genres like no other, Twenty One Pilots seamlessly merge alternative rock, hip-hop, and electronic styles, creating a truly distinct sound. Tyler Joseph and Josh Dun have a knack for crafting infectious, thought-provoking lyrics that resonate with fans worldwide. Their trademark versatility has earned them a loyal following, keeping them on top of the alternative rock world.

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  • Cage the Elephant
    2

    Boasting a unique vocal style with unmistakable punchy guitar riffs, Cage the Elephant never fails to captivate audiences and redefine the alternative rock genre. Their ever-evolving sound can be heard through albums such as Melophobia and Social Cues. With their gripping live performances and an unstoppable energy, it's no wonder they've become a staple in the alt-rock scene.

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  • The Killers
    3

    The Killers

    101 votes

    Hailing from Las Vegas, Nevada, The Killers have been making waves in the alternative rock scene since their debut album Hot Fuss. With influences ranging from '80s new wave to heartland rock, their music is characterized by synthesizers, anthemic choruses, and Brandon Flowers' distinctive vocals. The combination of unforgettable lyrics and toe-tapping melodies ensures that The Killers leave their mark on the alt-rock landscape.

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  • Foo Fighters
    4

    Foo Fighters

    100 votes

    Founded by former Nirvana drummer Dave Grohl, Foo Fighters have solidified their place as alt-rock royalty with anthemic tunes and electrifying live shows. Their knack for delivering both hard-hitting rockers and heart-wrenching ballads make them an enduring staple in the genre. With an undeniably infectious energy, they continue to captivate audiences around the world.

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  • Red Hot Chili Peppers
    5

    With a career spanning over three decades, Red Hot Chili Peppers have proven their staying power in the alternative rock scene. Their funky basslines, rocking guitar riffs, and iconic vocals from Anthony Kiedis blend effortlessly to create a style that is uniquely theirs. From generation-defining hits to more recent tracks, RHCP never disappoints.

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  • Fall Out Boy
    6

    Fall Out Boy

    108 votes

    Ever-evolving and always ahead of the curve, Fall Out Boy has dominated the alternative rock scene with their genre-defying sound. Pioneers of the emo-pop movement, they've managed to maintain relevance with their anthemic hits and infectious hooks. Fall Out Boy proves that, with an unyielding commitment to innovation, a band can stay fresh and continually captivate fans.

  • Green Day
    7

    Green Day

    124 votes

    Punk rock trailblazers Green Day have been redefining alternative rock since their inception in the late '80s. Their incisive social commentary, relentless energy, and catchy hooks are unmatched in the genre. With numerous hit albums and a continued passion for creating thought-provoking music, Green Day remains at the forefront of alternative rock.

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  • Weezer
    8

    Weezer

    100 votes

    Synonymous with geeky coolness, Weezer's catchy, smart, and effortlessly quirky tunes have made them an alt-rock favorite since the '90s. Frontman Rivers Cuomo's endearingly nerdy persona and songwriting prowess set the band apart from their contemporaries. Their timeless appeal and musical versatility ensure they maintain their status as one of the best in the genre.

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  • Tame Impala
    9

    Tame Impala

    92 votes

    Led by multi-instrumentalist Kevin Parker, Tame Impala has carved a unique niche in alt-rock with their dreamy psychedelia-infused soundscapes. Their lush sonic layers and introspective lyrics have earned them a fanatical following. Always pushing boundaries and experimenting with new ideas, Tame Impala remains a force to be reckoned with in the world of alternative rock.

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  • Evanescence
    10

    Evanescence

    68 votes

    Combining gothic elements with powerful rock, Evanescence stormed the alternative rock scene with their debut album Fallen in 2003. Amy Lee's haunting vocals, soaring melodies, and emotionally charged lyrics have captivated fans for nearly two decades. Their unmistakable blend of symphonic rock and dark themes has kept them a favorite within the genre.

  • Imagine Dragons
    11

    Renowned for their massive, arena-ready sound, Imagine Dragons consistently delivers anthemic alternative rock hits that resonate with fans across the globe. Their eclectic mix of genres and introspective lyrics have made them one of the most popular bands in the alt-rock scene. With their signature explosive energy and penchant for reinventing themselves, Imagine Dragons remains a force to be reckoned with.

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  • Vampire Weekend
    12

    Masterfully merging indie rock with worldbeat and baroque pop influences, Vampire Weekend has carved out a unique place in the alternative rock landscape. Their intricate instrumentation and introspective lyrics are both catchy and thought-provoking, consistently impressing fans and critics alike. Their dedication to innovation and genre-blurring has cemented their status as one of the most exciting alt-rock bands today.

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  • Deftones
    13

    Deftones

    55 votes

    With a career spanning over 30 years, Deftones have forged their own path within the alternative rock and metal genres. Led by enigmatic frontman Chino Moreno, their signature blend of heavy riffs, atmospheric melodies, and haunting vocals creates a truly captivating sonic experience. Their ability to continually evolve while staying true to their roots makes them indisputable heavyweights in the genre.

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  • Bring Me The Horizon
    14

    Hailing from Sheffield, England, Bring Me The Horizon has evolved from their metalcore roots to become one of the most innovative alternative rock bands today. Their dynamic sound, intricate musicianship, and thought-provoking lyrics never cease to impress listeners and critics alike. Frontman Oli Sykes' captivating stage presence ensures that they remain at the top of their game.

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  • The 1975
    15

    The 1975

    75 votes

    Known for their genre-defying sound, infectious melodies, and introspective lyrics, The 1975 has made an undeniable impact on the alternative rock scene. Their music is a testament to their dedication to pushing boundaries, always evolving while still maintaining their unmistakable style. Frontman Matty Healy's enigmatic persona adds an extra layer of intrigue, solidifying their status as an unstoppable force within the genre.

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  • Grouplove
    16

    Grouplove

    49 votes

    Since their formation in 2009, Grouplove has been winning over alternative rock fans with their infectious energy and anthemic indie-pop sound. Their music is characterized by distinctive, intertwining vocals and feel-good melodies that create an instant connection with listeners. Their passion for performance and songwriting ensures they maintain their status as one of the best in the genre.

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  • The Pretty Reckless
    17

    Fronted by former actress Taylor Momsen, The Pretty Reckless has risen to the top of the alt-rock scene with their hard-hitting sound and provocative lyrics. Momsen's powerful vocals and fearless stage presence make the band a standout in the genre. With a magnetic energy and undeniable talent, The Pretty Reckless continues to deliver compelling alt-rock anthems.

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  • The Interrupters
    18

    Injecting a healthy dose of ska-punk into the alternative rock scene, The Interrupters have quickly amassed a loyal following. With infectious hooks, energetic live performances, and an irrepressible spirit, they're impossible to ignore. As they continue to redefine and reinvigorate the genre, they undoubtedly earn their spot among the best alternative rock bands.

  • HAIM
    19

    HAIM

    31 votes

    Sisters Este, Danielle, and Alana Haim exploded onto the alternative rock scene with their unique blend of pop-rock, reminiscent of '70s and '80s soft rock. Their undeniable chemistry, tight harmonies, and consistently catchy tunes have kept them at the forefront of the genre. With a knack for reinvention while staying true to their roots, HAIM has carved a lasting place in the annals of alternative rock.

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  • Kasabian
    20

    Kasabian

    33 votes

    A definitive band of the mid-2000s indie rock scene, Kasabian's anthemic sound and explosive live shows have made them a force to be reckoned with. Blending influences from electronica, psychedelia, and classic rock, their music manages to stay fresh and interesting. With unrelenting energy and infectious tunes, Kasabian has more than earned their place among the best alternative rock bands.

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  • Echosmith
    21

    Echosmith

    33 votes

    Armed with an infectious blend of indie-pop and alternative rock, Echosmith has been making waves since their 2013 debut single "Cool Kids." Siblings Sydney, Noah, and Graham Sierota display undeniable chemistry, crafting feel-good tunes that resonate with fans across the globe. Their relatable lyrics and warm musical sensibilities ensure their continued success in the alt-rock scene.

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  • The Airborne Toxic Event
    22

    Known for their evocative storytelling and orchestral rock sound, The Airborne Toxic Event has carved a special place in the hearts of alternative rock fans. Mikel Jollett's introspective lyrics, combined with the band's ability to craft deeply emotional and anthemic tracks, guarantees their status as standout performers in the genre. The Airborne Toxic Event continues to captivate fans with each new release, maintaining their status as one of alt-rock's best.

  • OneRepublic
    23

    OneRepublic

    58 votes

    With a knack for crafting memorable pop-rock anthems, OneRepublic has been captivating audiences since the mid-2000s. Frontman Ryan Tedder's impressive vocal range and songwriting prowess have earned the band a legion of dedicated fans. Their ability to balance heartfelt ballads with uptempo, radio-ready hits cements their place in the upper echelons of alternative rock.

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  • Angels & Airwaves
    24

    Formed by former Blink-182 guitarist Tom DeLonge, Angels & Airwaves delves into a more experimental and introspective side of alternative rock. Their atmospheric soundscapes, coupled with DeLonge's distinctive vocals, create an undeniably captivating listening experience. With a penchant for pushing boundaries and exploring new sonic territories, Angels & Airwaves solidifies their place among the best alt-rock bands of today.

  • Go Radio
    25

    Go Radio

    23 votes

    Led by former Mayday Parade vocalist Jason Lancaster, Go Radio has made a name for themselves in the alternative rock scene with their emotive lyrics and infectious melodies. Their unique blend of pop-punk and indie-rock elements creates a captivating sound that resonates with fans. With their heartfelt songwriting and genuine passion for music, Go Radio rightfully claims their spot among the best of the genre.

  • Emery
    26

    Emery

    19 votes

    Emerging from the post-hardcore scene in the early 2000s, Emery has since cemented their place as one of the most innovative bands in the alternative rock genre. Their intricate musicianship, raw emotional intensity, and thought-provoking lyrics have earned them a dedicated fan base. With their ever-evolving sound and unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of the genre, Emery has proven they're a force to be reckoned with in the alt-rock scene.

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  • PVRIS
    27

    PVRIS

    30 votes

    Combining dark, atmospheric synth-pop with alternative rock sensibilities, PVRIS has rapidly gained a dedicated following since their debut in 2014. Frontwoman Lynn Gunn's powerful vocals and enigmatic stage presence elevate the band's electric energy, making them a standout act in the genre. With a commitment to growth and reinvention, PVRIS continues to make waves in the alternative rock world.

  • Stabbing Westward
    28

    Hailing from the industrial rock scene of the '90s, Stabbing Westward has continued to evolve into a driving force within the alternative rock genre. Known for their powerful live shows and emotionally-charged lyrics, the band never fails to leave an indelible mark on their listeners. Their relentless energy and refusal to be pigeonholed make them stand out among the best in alternative rock.

  • Twin Atlantic
    29

    Twin Atlantic

    25 votes

    Scotland's Twin Atlantic has become synonymous with dynamic, anthemic alt-rock since forming in 2007. Frontman Sam McTrusty's soaring vocals and the band’s captivating instrumentals create a mesmerizing experience for fans and critics alike. With their ability to consistently deliver high-energy, emotionally driven music, Twin Atlantic's place among the best alternative rock bands is well-deserved.

  • Maroon 5
    30

    Maroon 5

    64 votes

    Since their debut in the early 2000s, Maroon 5 has become an undeniable force in the alternative rock scene, with an impressive array of hits under their belt. Frontman Adam Levine's distinctive voice and the band's catchy melodies keep fans coming back for more. Their versatility, penchant for reinvention, and undeniable pop sensibilities make Maroon 5 a standout among the best alternative rock bands of 2020.

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