Grunge music has left an indelible mark on the music industry, with Nirvana being one of the most iconic bands of the genre. If you’re a fan of Nirvana and are looking to discover more bands and artists with a similar sound, you’re in for a treat. Here’s a list of 14 bands and artists that capture the essence of grunge and alternative rock. Explore Nirvana’s music here.
1. Pearl Jam
Pearl Jam emerged from the Seattle grunge scene in the early ’90s and quickly became one of the genre’s defining bands. Their debut album, Ten, features hits like “Alive” and “Even Flow,” which are still beloved by fans today.
2. Soundgarden
Soundgarden is another cornerstone of the grunge movement, known for their heavy guitar riffs and powerful vocals. Albums like Superunknown and songs such as “Black Hole Sun” have cemented their place in rock history.
3. Alice in Chains
Alice in Chains brought a darker, more melancholic sound to grunge. Their albums Dirt and Jar of Flies include tracks like “Man in the Box” and “Rooster,” which showcase their unique blend of heavy metal and grunge.
4. Stone Temple Pilots
Stone Temple Pilots gained fame with their debut album Core and hits like “Plush” and “Creep.” Their sound, while rooted in grunge, also incorporates elements of psychedelic rock and alternative metal.
5. Mudhoney
Mudhoney is often credited with helping to shape the grunge sound. Their raw, unpolished style can be heard in albums like Superfuzz Bigmuff and songs such as “Touch Me I’m Sick.”
6. The Smashing Pumpkins
While The Smashing Pumpkins hail from Chicago, their music has a grunge influence that resonates with fans of the genre. Albums like Siamese Dream and Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness feature iconic tracks like “Today” and “1979.”
7. Hole
Led by Courtney Love, Hole brought a fierce, feminist perspective to the grunge scene. Their albums Live Through This and Celebrity Skin include powerful songs like “Doll Parts” and “Malibu.”
8. Bush
Bush, fronted by Gavin Rossdale, gained popularity with their debut album Sixteen Stone. Hits like “Glycerine” and “Machinehead” helped them carve out a space in the ’90s alternative rock landscape.
9. Silverchair
Australian band Silverchair burst onto the scene with their debut album Frogstomp, recorded when the members were still teenagers. Songs like “Tomorrow” and “Pure Massacre” showcase their grunge roots.
10. Screaming Trees
Screaming Trees combined grunge with psychedelic rock influences. Their album Sweet Oblivion features the hit “Nearly Lost You,” which remains a staple of the genre.
11. L7
L7 is known for their raw, energetic sound and feminist lyrics. Their album Bricks Are Heavy includes the hit “Pretend We’re Dead,” which became an anthem for the ’90s alternative rock scene.
12. Temple of the Dog
A supergroup featuring members of Pearl Jam and Soundgarden, Temple of the Dog released a self-titled album as a tribute to late singer Andrew Wood. The song “Hunger Strike” is one of their most well-known tracks.
13. Melvins
The Melvins are often cited as a major influence on the grunge movement. Their sludgy, heavy sound can be heard in albums like Houdini and songs such as “Honey Bucket.”
14. Babes in Toyland
Babes in Toyland brought a punk edge to the grunge scene. Their album Fontanelle features the track “Bruise Violet,” which showcases their aggressive, raw sound.
