Indie rock

The Chills, Indietracks 2014 10

Jesus and Mary Chain 2007

Bilinda Butcher (cropped 2)

Sonic Youth 2009.05.30 001

Stevemalkmus(by Scott Dudelson)

Indie rock is a genre of rock music that originated in the United States and United Kingdom during the 1970s and 1980s. It is characterized by its diversity, complexity, and reliance on independent record labels and production techniques. Indie rock diverged from the mainstream rock music of the time, embodying a more experimental and DIY ethos. This genre encompasses a wide range of sounds, attitudes, and styles, reflecting the independent approach to music-making and often resisting commercial pressures and mainstream trends.

History

The term "indie rock" is derived from "independent," referring to the independent record labels that indie bands often release music on. Indie rock's roots can be traced back to the post-punk movement of the late 1970s, with bands like The Smiths, R.E.M., and Sonic Youth laying the groundwork for the genre. These bands were known for their refusal to conform to the commercial music industry, instead releasing music on independent labels and focusing on artistic integrity over mainstream success.

During the 1980s and 1990s, indie rock grew in popularity and diversity. The genre saw a significant boost with the success of bands like Nirvana and Pavement, which brought indie rock to a wider audience. The 2000s saw the rise of a new wave of indie rock bands, such as The Strokes, Arcade Fire, and Arctic Monkeys, who achieved commercial success while maintaining an independent ethos.

Characteristics

Indie rock is noted for its diversity, with bands exploring a variety of sounds and styles. Common characteristics include a focus on innovative guitar work, experimental song structures, and an emphasis on lyrical depth. The production values of indie rock are typically lower than those of mainstream rock, often resulting in a rawer, more authentic sound.

Subgenres

Indie rock encompasses a range of subgenres, each with its own distinct characteristics. These include:

• Lo-fi: Characterized by its low fidelity production, giving it a raw and unpolished sound.
• Emo: Focused on emotional and confessional lyrics, often paired with a punk rock influence.
• Shoegaze: Known for its ethereal soundscapes, heavy use of guitar effects, and indistinct vocals.
• Post-rock: Instrumental-focused music that eschews traditional rock music structures in favor of atmosphere and texture.

Influence

Indie rock has had a significant influence on the music industry, challenging the dominance of major record labels and promoting a culture of DIY ethics and artistic integrity. It has also influenced the development of other music genres, including alternative rock and post-punk revival.

See Also

• Alternative rock
• Punk rock
• Independent music