If you’re a fan of the alternative rock and psychedelic punk sounds of the Meat Puppets, you’ll likely enjoy exploring other bands and artists that share similar vibes. Below is a curated list of 19 bands and artists that you should definitely check out.
1. Hüsker Dü
Hüsker Dü is a pioneering band in the alternative rock scene. Their albums “Zen Arcade” and “New Day Rising” are essential listens, featuring hits like “Pink Turns to Blue” and “Celebrated Summer.”
2. Pixies
Pixies are known for their dynamic sound and influential role in the alternative rock genre. Albums like “Doolittle” and “Surfer Rosa” feature iconic tracks such as “Here Comes Your Man” and “Where Is My Mind?”
3. Sonic Youth
Sonic Youth’s experimental approach to rock has garnered them a dedicated following. Albums like “Daydream Nation” and “Goo” include standout songs like “Teen Age Riot” and “Kool Thing.”
4. Dinosaur Jr.
Dinosaur Jr. is celebrated for their heavy guitar riffs and melodic tunes. Key albums include “You’re Living All Over Me” and “Bug”, featuring tracks like “Freak Scene” and “Little Fury Things.”
5. The Replacements
The Replacements blend punk rock with heartfelt lyrics. Albums such as “Let It Be” and “Tim” are must-hears, with songs like “I Will Dare” and “Bastards of Young.”
6. Minutemen
Minutemen are known for their eclectic mix of punk, funk, and jazz. Their album “Double Nickels on the Dime” is a classic, featuring tracks like “Corona” and “This Ain’t No Picnic.”
7. Butthole Surfers
Butthole Surfers offer a chaotic yet captivating sound. Albums like “Locust Abortion Technician” and “Electriclarryland” include songs such as “Pepper” and “Human Cannonball.”
8. R.E.M.
R.E.M.’s jangly guitars and introspective lyrics have made them a staple in alternative rock. Albums like “Murmur” and “Automatic for the People” feature hits like “Radio Free Europe” and “Man on the Moon.”
9. The Flaming Lips
The Flaming Lips are known for their psychedelic and experimental rock. Albums such as “The Soft Bulletin” and “Yoshimi Battles the Pink Robots” include tracks like “Do You Realize??” and “Fight Test.”
10. Pavement
Pavement’s lo-fi sound and witty lyrics have earned them a cult following. Albums like “Slanted and Enchanted” and “Crooked Rain, Crooked Rain” feature songs such as “Cut Your Hair” and “Gold Soundz.”
11. Sebadoh
Sebadoh’s raw and emotional music has made them a key player in the indie rock scene. Albums like “Bakesale” and “Harmacy” include tracks such as “Rebound” and “Ocean.”
12. The Melvins
The Melvins are known for their sludgy, heavy sound. Albums like “Houdini” and “Stoner Witch” feature songs such as “Honey Bucket” and “Revolve.”
13. Fugazi
Fugazi’s post-hardcore sound and DIY ethic have influenced countless bands. Albums like “Repeater” and “13 Songs” include tracks like “Waiting Room” and “Merchandise.”
14. Guided by Voices
Guided by Voices are known for their prolific output and lo-fi aesthetics. Albums such as “Bee Thousand” and “Alien Lanes” feature songs like “I Am a Scientist” and “Game of Pricks.”
15. Yo La Tengo
Yo La Tengo’s eclectic sound spans multiple genres, making them a versatile listen. Albums like “I Can Hear the Heart Beating as One” and “Painful” include tracks such as “Sugarcube” and “Tom Courtenay.”
16. Swervedriver
Swervedriver’s blend of shoegaze and alternative rock creates a unique sound. Albums like “Mezcal Head” and “Raise” feature tracks such as “Duel” and “Rave Down.”
17. The Jesus and Mary Chain
The Jesus and Mary Chain’s noise-pop sound has left a lasting impact on alternative rock. Albums like “Psychocandy” and “Darklands” include songs such as “Just Like Honey” and “April Skies.”
18. The Breeders
The Breeders, formed by Kim Deal of the Pixies, offer a mix of indie rock and alternative. Albums like “Last Splash” and “Pod” feature tracks such as “Cannonball” and “Doe.”
19. Superchunk
Superchunk’s energetic and catchy tunes have made them a staple in the indie rock scene. Albums such as “No Pocky for Kitty” and “Foolish” include songs like “Slack Motherfucker” and “Driveway to Driveway.”
Exploring these bands will give you a deeper appreciation for the rich landscape of alternative rock and its many offshoots. Happy listening!
