If you’re a fan of The Church and their ethereal blend of psychedelic rock and dream pop, you’ll likely appreciate these 15 bands and artists that share a similar vibe. Check out this link to The Church to get a sense of their sound before diving into our recommendations.
1. The Cure
The Cure is renowned for their melancholic and atmospheric sound, much like The Church. Popular tracks like “Just Like Heaven” and “Lovesong” and albums such as Disintegration have cemented their place in alternative rock history.
2. Echo & The Bunnymen
With hits like “The Killing Moon” and “Lips Like Sugar,” Echo & The Bunnymen offer a moody, introspective sound. Their album Ocean Rain is often considered a masterpiece of the post-punk genre.
3. Cocteau Twins
The Cocteau Twins are pioneers in the dream pop genre, known for their lush soundscapes and ethereal vocals. Albums like Heaven or Las Vegas and tracks such as “Cherry-Coloured Funk” are fan favorites.
4. The Psychedelic Furs
The Psychedelic Furs blend post-punk and new wave elements, creating a sound that’s both edgy and melodic. Songs like “Love My Way” and “Pretty in Pink” from their self-titled album are iconic.
5. The Smiths
With Morrissey’s distinctive voice and Johnny Marr’s jangly guitar riffs, The Smiths have a sound that’s both unique and influential. Albums like The Queen Is Dead and songs such as “There Is a Light That Never Goes Out” are must-listens.
6. Siouxsie and the Banshees
Siouxsie and the Banshees are known for their dark, gothic rock sound. Tracks like “Cities in Dust” and albums like Juju showcase their unique style and lasting influence.
7. Love and Rockets
Formed by members of Bauhaus, Love and Rockets bring a mix of post-punk, gothic rock, and alternative elements. Songs like “So Alive” and albums such as Earth, Sun, Moon are essential listens.
8. The Chameleons
The Chameleons are celebrated for their atmospheric and emotionally charged music. Albums like Script of the Bridge and tracks such as “Swamp Thing” are particularly notable.
9. The Jesus and Mary Chain
Known for their blend of noise pop and alternative rock, The Jesus and Mary Chain have a distinctive, feedback-heavy sound. Albums like Psychocandy and songs such as “Just Like Honey” are iconic.
10. The House of Love
The House of Love combines jangly guitars with a dreamy atmosphere, much like The Church. Tracks like “Shine On” and albums such as their self-titled debut are highly recommended.
11. The Dream Syndicate
The Dream Syndicate offers a blend of alternative rock and neo-psychedelia. Songs like “Tell Me When It’s Over” and albums like The Days of Wine and Roses are standout works.
12. Talk Talk
Talk Talk evolved from synth-pop to a more experimental, post-rock sound. Albums like Spirit of Eden and tracks such as “It’s My Life” showcase their versatility and depth.
13. Galaxie 500
Galaxie 500 is known for their minimalist, dreamy soundscapes. Songs like “Tugboat” and albums such as On Fire are cherished by fans of the dream pop genre.
14. Ride
Ride is a key player in the shoegaze movement, known for their lush, reverb-soaked sound. Albums like Nowhere and tracks such as “Vapour Trail” are essential listens.
15. The Stone Roses
The Stone Roses blend alternative rock with a touch of psychedelic flair. Their self-titled debut album and songs like “I Wanna Be Adored” have left a lasting impact on the music scene.
