Their Songs Shake the World, Check Out the List of 90s Alternative Rock Bands That Still Echo Today

Kapanlagi.com - If there is one decade that can be called the golden age of alternative rock, then the 90s is the answer. In this era, alternative rock not only became a complement in the music world but actually dominated the industry with a distinctive sound that was more experimental compared to conventional rock. Major bands emerged from various parts of the world, bringing colors and influences that are still felt today.

Interestingly, even though more than three decades have passed, songs from this era are still frequently heard on the radio, in movies, and even in the streaming playlists of the current generation. Let's take a nostalgia trip and delve deeper into some of the best alternative rock bands from the 90s that are still relevant today!

1. Red Hot Chili Peppers, Hot Energy from California 

Who can forget the distinctive funk rock breakthrough of Red Hot Chili Peppers? This band from Los Angeles has been around since 1983, but its popularity skyrocketed in the 90s with iconic albums such as BLOOD SUGAR SEX MAGIK (1991) and CALIFORNICATION (1999). Anthony Kiedis with his distinctive vocals, Flea with his energetic bass playing, and John Frusciante who adds a magical touch to the guitar, make RHCP one of the most unique bands in the history of alternative rock.

Some songs that remain anthems to this day include Under the Bridge, Give It Away, Scar Tissue, and Californication. With a combination of emotional lyrics and energetic musical arrangements, RHCP has managed to maintain its existence even to this day.

2. Radiohead, Captivating Sound Experimentation

Radiohead can be said to be the band that changed the direction of alternative rock music. This English band first caught the world's attention with the single Creep from the album Pablo Honey (1993). However, they truly created a new wave in the music industry with The Bends (1995) and OK Computer (1997), which are often referred to as some of the greatest albums of all time.

Songs like Paranoid Android, Karma Police, and No Surprises showcase unusual musical explorations, with a combination of introspective lyrics and complex arrangements. To this day, Radiohead is still regarded as a band that dares to experiment and remains relevant with the developments in modern music.

3. The Smashing Pumpkins, A Dark Melody that Touches the Heart

Billy Corgan and The Smashing Pumpkins bring a unique touch to the 90s alternative rock scene with music that is full of emotion and grand production. The albums Siamese Dream (1993) and Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness (1995) are proof that this band is not just an ordinary alternative band, but a band with great ambition in musical exploration.

Hits like Today, Tonight, Tonight, and 1979 remain favorite songs for many rock music fans. With a combination of poetic lyrics and grand arrangements, The Smashing Pumpkins are still remembered as one of the greatest alternative rock bands of all time.

4. Blur, Britpop that Shook the World

When talking about Britpop and alternative rock, Blur cannot be overlooked. This English band became one of the most influential bands of the 90s with a style that combines elements of pop, rock, and unique musical experimentation. Albums like Parklife (1994) and The Great Escape (1995) introduced many songs that became the soundtrack of many people's lives during that era.

Songs like Song 2, Girls & Boys, and Coffee & TV are still often heard in various events and media to this day. Blur is not just a band with catchy songs, but also has strong social critiques in its lyrics, making it more than just an ordinary Britpop band.

5. R.E.M., The Unforgettable Icon of Alternative Rock

R.E.M is one of the pioneers of alternative rock that successfully brought this genre into the mainstream. This American band has been active since the '80s, but in the '90s, they reached the peak of their glory with the albums Out of Time (1991) and Automatic for the People (1992).

Songs like Losing My Religion, Everybody Hurts, and Man on the Moon not only became huge hits but also carry deep meanings that are still relevant today. Michael Stipe's distinctive vocal style and unique musical arrangements keep R.E.M remembered by many generations.

With various styles and different approaches, these bands not only created music but also shaped the culture and identity of their generation. Each brought something new and fresh, making the '90s one of the most memorable decades in the history of alternative rock music.

(kpl/wri)