Indie rock fans often find themselves drawn to the unique sound and lyrical depth of Modest Mouse. If you’re one of those enthusiasts looking to expand your musical horizons, you’re in for a treat. Here are 17 bands and artists that capture a similar vibe, each with their own distinctive twist.
1. Built to Spill
Built to Spill is a cornerstone of the indie rock genre, known for their intricate guitar work and introspective lyrics. Albums like “Keep It Like a Secret” and “Perfect from Now On” feature standout tracks such as “Carry the Zero” and “I Would Hurt a Fly.”
2. The Shins
The Shins have a knack for creating catchy, melodic tunes that stick with you long after the song has ended. Their album “Oh, Inverted World” includes hits like “New Slang” and “Caring Is Creepy,” making it a must-listen for any indie rock aficionado.
3. Arcade Fire
Arcade Fire blends indie rock with orchestral elements, creating a sound that’s both grand and intimate. Albums such as “Funeral” and “The Suburbs” feature powerful tracks like “Wake Up” and “Ready to Start.”
4. Death Cab for Cutie
Death Cab for Cutie is celebrated for their emotionally charged lyrics and atmospheric soundscapes. Songs like “I Will Follow You into the Dark” from “Plans” and “Soul Meets Body” from “Transatlanticism” are perfect examples of their craft.
5. Wilco
Wilco’s blend of alternative rock and alt-country has earned them a dedicated following. Albums like “Yankee Hotel Foxtrot” and “A Ghost Is Born” include memorable tracks such as “Jesus, Etc.” and “Spiders (Kidsmoke).”
6. The National
The National are known for their brooding, melancholic sound and baritone vocals. Albums like “Boxer” and “High Violet” feature standout songs such as “Fake Empire” and “Bloodbuzz Ohio.”
7. Band of Horses
Band of Horses combines lush instrumentation with heartfelt lyrics. Their album “Everything All the Time” includes hits like “The Funeral” and “The Great Salt Lake.”
8. Tame Impala
Tame Impala brings a psychedelic twist to the indie rock genre. Albums like “Lonerism” and “Currents” feature popular tracks such as “Feels Like We Only Go Backwards” and “Let It Happen.”
9. Grizzly Bear
Grizzly Bear is known for their complex arrangements and rich harmonies. Albums like “Veckatimest” and “Shields” include standout songs such as “Two Weeks” and “Yet Again.”
10. Vampire Weekend
Vampire Weekend’s upbeat, eclectic sound has made them a favorite among indie rock fans. Their self-titled debut album features hits like “A-Punk” and “Oxford Comma.”
11. Fleet Foxes
Fleet Foxes are celebrated for their harmonious vocals and folk-infused sound. Albums like “Fleet Foxes” and “Helplessness Blues” include memorable tracks such as “White Winter Hymnal” and “Helplessness Blues.”
12. Neutral Milk Hotel
Neutral Milk Hotel’s lo-fi aesthetic and deeply emotional lyrics have made them a cult favorite. Their album “In the Aeroplane Over the Sea” features iconic songs like “Holland, 1945” and the title track.
13. The Decemberists
The Decemberists are known for their storytelling lyrics and theatrical sound. Albums like “Picaresque” and “The Crane Wife” include standout tracks such as “16 Military Wives” and “O Valencia!”
14. Spoon
Spoon’s minimalist approach to indie rock has earned them critical acclaim. Albums like “Ga Ga Ga Ga Ga” and “Gimme Fiction” feature popular songs such as “The Underdog” and “I Turn My Camera On.”
15. MGMT
MGMT blends indie rock with psychedelic pop to create a unique sound. Their album “Oracular Spectacular” includes hits like “Electric Feel” and “Time to Pretend.”
16. Bon Iver
Bon Iver’s ethereal sound and emotive lyrics have captivated audiences worldwide. Albums like “For Emma, Forever Ago” and “Bon Iver, Bon Iver” include standout tracks such as “Skinny Love” and “Holocene.”
17. Car Seat Headrest
Car Seat Headrest combines lo-fi production with raw, introspective lyrics. Albums like “Teens of Denial” and “Twin Fantasy” feature memorable songs such as “Drunk Drivers/Killer Whales” and “Beach Life-in-Death.”
