Is this playlist for me?
There’s a feeling quality that permeates the music of the mid-80s into the early 90s, when college rock was morphing into alternative/indie rock. It’s a little murky and melancholy, showcasing layered guitars, stunning melodies and wistful chords; textures vary from thick & crunchy to shimmery & ethereal to clean & jangly.
This quality lives on in today’s music, although it’s not as easy to find. I created this playlist to pull together recent songs that evoke this mood. If you are a fan of this sound, you’ll find something here to enjoy.
If I were just going to listen to one song, which should I pick?
If you haven’t heard it yet, Sharks by BROCKHOFF is a great place to start. That blistering chorus, the melodic hook, the jangly guitar running underneath that comes forward as the song winds down. It’s all here.
Mila Degray’s collaborations with Thorington also perfectly capture the mood of this playlist and are a good starting point. Two are included here: Not Nancy and Skinny Brittle Bones. Both feature stunning chords and sound textures that make you feel like you stepped into 1991.
What genres are represented in this playlist?
Indie Rock, Shoegaze, Chill dream pop, Singer-songwriter, Chamber Psych, Art pop, Experimental pop
Antecedents
This playlist is limited to new music, but it’s inspired by a musical quality that also shows up in the songs of the past such as:
- The Headmaster’s Ritual by The Smiths
- De-Luxe by Lush
- Out There by The Blake Babies
- Not Too Soon by Throwing Muses
- A Kissed Out Red Floatboat by Cocteau Twins
- You’re Not The Only One I Know by The Sundays
- So. Central Rain by R.E.M.
If I like this playlist, what other ones should I check out?
You might want to check out Wistful, as it taps into a similar “longing” quality through the use of unusual chords and intervals. The two playlists represent different shades of this feeling. If Wistful has more of a Carole King type bittersweet quality, Crunchy & Jangly skews towards The Sundays expression of this gentle mood.
Last Updated on August 19, 2024
