10 Essential Alternative Music Albums

From the gritty, raw energy of its early days to the eclectic sounds that shape its current landscape, alternative music has produced a slew of albums that have become touchstones for both fans and critics alike. Let’s dive right in.

1. Doolittle- Pixies (1989)

Doolittle, released in 1989, expanded upon the Pixies’ previous album, Surfer Rosa, exploring an alternative rock sound. The studio album features 15 songs and is 38 minutes long. One standout song from the album is “Hey.” “Hey” is featured in many movie soundtracks including The Suicide Squad (2021) and Fear Street Part One: 1994.

2. Nevermind- Nirvana (1991)

Nevermind, released in 1991, is consistently in the running for being one of the best albums of all time. Apple Music recently named the album as the ninth best album. The studio album has 13 songs and is 49 minutes long. Two standout tracks include “Smells Like Teen Spirit” and “Come As You Are.”

3. OK Computer- Radiohead (1997)

Radiohead released OK Computer in 1997 which features 12 songs and is 42 minutes long. The album combines classic alternative rock sounds with complex and angsty lyrics. A standout track is “Creep.”

4. Is This It- The Strokes (2001)

Is This It was released in 2001 and remains a widely loved rock-influenced album to this day. Apple Music recently ranked the album at number 68 for best albums. The album has 11 songs and is 35 minutes long. Two standout tracks are “Someday” and “Last Nite.”

5. White Blood Cells- The White Stripes (2001)

The White Stripes released White Blood Cells in 2001 following the release of De Stijl in 2000. The album features 16 songs including “Fell In Love With a Girl” and “We’re Going to Be Friends.” Each song is a blend between rock and punk.

6. By the Way- Red Hot Chili Peppers (2002)

By the Way was released in 2002 featuring 16 songs. By the Way marked Red Hot Chili Peppers’ eighth study album. Sonically the songs on this album shifted to more vocal harmonies and less focus on bass lines. A standout track is “Can’t Stop.”

7. American Idiot- Green Day (2004)

Green Day released American Idiot in 2004. American Idiot features 13 songs and is 57 minutes long. In classic Green Day style, some tracks feature bold political statements and messages all while staying true to the rock and punk rock genres. Standout tracks include “American Idiot,” “Holiday,” and “Boulevard of Broken Dreams.”

8. Riot! – Paramore (2007)

Riot! was released in 2007 as Paramore’s second studio album. Riot! features 11 songs that blend the pop punk style and empowering lyrics. Standout tracks include “That’s What You Get,” “Misery Business,” and “Crushcrushcrush.”

9. Contra- Vampire Weekend (2010)

Contra, released in 2010, highlights the band’s signature blend of indie rock and classical influences. Contra has 11 songs and is 39 minutes long. The record is known for its catchy melodies, intricate arrangements, and clever lyrics. Standout tracks include “Horchata,” “Holiday,” “Giving Up the Gun,” and “Diplomat’s Son.”

10. AM- Artic Monkeys (2013)

AM was released in 2013. The studio album has 12 songs and is 41 minutes long. It’s no secret that the album was a great success. Over 4 million copies of the album were sold making it Artic Monkey’s most successful United States album. Apple Music recently ranked AM at number 59 on their best albums list.

As we wrap up our exploration of these ten essential alternative albums, it’s clear that each of these records has contributed to the genre in its own unique way. From groundbreaking debuts to genre-defining classics, these albums have not only influenced countless artists but also resonated deeply with listeners across generations. Whether you’re revisiting old favorites or discovering them for the first time, these albums offer a glimpse into the diverse and dynamic world of alternative music.