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While most younger millennials will quickly associate the 90s with grunge and stripped-down music devoid of the excesses of glam rock, it is also the decade that saw the rise of what we now call alternative rock. The umbrella term should, of course, cater to grunge as well. But grunge has its own distinct sound, while alternative is more eclectic. Let’s look at some of the best albums from the alt-rock pioneers of the decade.
Rage Against the Machine
The self-titled debut album of RATM changed the landscape of alternative and rap, fusing these genres in rabid, politically charged anthems like “Killing in the Name” and “Take the Power Back.” It helped the band’s image immensely that never use any samples nor synths, relying on the guitar mastery of Tom Morello.
Siamese Dream
This 1993-released second album by then rising act The Smashing Pumpkins would pave the way for the band’s global success. Yes, it’s the 1995 Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness that would make the band a household name, but that won’t happen without the heavy airplay and dream-pop appeal of singles in Siamese Dream, specifically “Today” and “Disarm.”
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Dummy
U.K.-based Portishead would be a key player in the rise of Electronica, and the moog-driven synths and noir feel of this debut album would catapult the group to international stardom. Vocalist Beth Gibbons croons some of the most painful and cutting lyrics in songs like “Glory Box,” “Roads,” and the hit single “Sour Times.”
My name is Alton Ingram and I’ve been into alternative rock music since high school. I’m currently pursuing my college studies, but I still come back to the best bands in the genre. For more on my other interests, go to this link.
