“Hoppípolla,” Icelandic for “Hopping into Puddles,” finds Sigur Rós layering strings, piano, and their signature gibberish-language Hopelandic into a build-up that manages to feel tender and massive without breaking a sweat.

The track slips quietly into the mainstream via BBC’s “Planet Earth,” and turns up with similar serenity in “Children of Men” and “We Bought a Zoo.”

Nominated for Grammies, the band keeps one foot in post-rock, the other in abstraction.

The music video is directed by Arni & Kinski.

Writer(s) : Jon Thor Birgisson, Georg Holm, Orri Pall Dyrason, Kjartan Sveinsson Publisher(s) : Universal Music Publishing Limited (Gb)
Genres : indie_rock

Genres : Pop, Classical, New age, Rock, Folk/Acoustic,chamber pop, compositional ambient, dream pop, ethereal wave, icelandic rock, indie rock, melancholia, nordic post-rock, post-rock

Featured on the album 2005,Takk…

>> Lyrics >> More by the same : Website

25.75% / -0.84%

“All My Friends” by LCD Soundsystem, released in 2007, quickly becomes an indie rock anthem. Characterized by a repetitive piano riff, rhythmic progression, and introspective lyrics, it explores themes of aging and nostalgia. Frontman James Murphy draws inspiration from electronic music and punk rock. The song is critically acclaimed and frequently listed among the best songs of the decade.

The music video is directed by Jamie Thraves.

Writer(s) : David Ross McMahon Publisher(s) : Cd Baby Beta
Genres : Rock, Pop, Electronic,alternative dance, alternative rock, art pop, dance rock, dance-punk, electronic rock, electronica, indie rock, indietronica, neo-synthpop, new rave

Genres : Rock, Pop, Electronic,alternative dance, alternative rock, art pop, dance rock, dance-punk, electronic rock, electronica, indie rock, indietronica, neo-synthpop, new rave

The music video is directed by Jamie Thraves

Featured on the album 2007,Sound Of Silver

>> Lyrics >> More by the same : Website

12.45% / -0.04%

“Life in Mono” by British trip-hop duo Mono, formed by Siobhan de Maré and Martin Virgo, debuts in 1996. It gains iconic status through its use in Alfonso Cuarón’s film “Great Expectations” (1998), starring Ethan Hawke and Gwyneth Paltrow. The song features a melancholic atmosphere and a harpsichord sample from John Barry’s “The Ipcress File.” Its enduring popularity sees it appear in series like “La Femme Nikita” and ads for the Rover 25. Emma Bunton, former Spice Girl, covers it in 2006.

The music video is directed by Tom Kuntz.

Writer(s) : Martin Virgo, John Barry Publisher(s) : Bmg Rights Management Uk Limited, Universal Dick James Music Limited
Genres : ,pop rock, indie rock

Genres : ,pop rock, indie rock

The music video is directed by Tom Kuntz

Featured on the album 1997,Formica Blues

11.25% / -0.71%

Gerry Cinnamon, an independent Scottish artist, releases “Sometimes” in 2017. The song, characterized by its folk-rock style and introspective lyrics, showcases Gerry Cinnamon, born Gerard Crosbie in Glasgow, known for dynamic live performances and authentic connections with audiences. Released on his label, Little Runaway Records, “Sometimes” is celebrated for its simplicity and raw honesty, embodying the DIY (Do It Yourself) ethos.

The music video is directed by Keith Allen.

Writer(s) : Gerard Crosbie Publisher(s) : Little Runaway Music Limited
Genres : Rock,glasgow indie, scottish indie rock

Genres : Rock,glasgow indie, scottish indie rock

The music video is directed by Keith Allen

Featured on the album 2017,Erratic Cinematic

>> Lyrics >> More by the same : Website

10.86% / -0.02%

Released on January 12, 2004, as the second single from Franz Ferdinand’s self-titled debut, “Take Me Out” propels the Scottish indie rock band into mainstream relevance.

The track peaks at number three on the UK Singles Chart and dominates the US Modern Rock Tracks at the same rank, while landing number 66 on the Billboard Hot 100.

Its syncopated intro gives way to a riff-laden section, with Alex Kapranos citing “Enemy at the Gates” as thematic inspiration.

Jonas Odell directs the Dadaist-style video, blending Monty Python-esque absurdity with Soviet visual tropes.

Winning an Ivor Novello for Best Contemporary Song, it also tops Triple J’s Hottest 100 of 2004 and ranks at number 100 in their 2009 All Time list.

The music video is directed by Sophie Muller.

Writer(s) : Joseph Goddard, Owen Clarke, Felix Martin, Al Doyle, Alexis Benjamin Taylor Publisher(s) : Goddard And Taylor Limited
Genres : indie_rock

Genres : Rock,alternative rock, dance rock, indie rock, modern rock, rock, scottish rock

The music video is directed by Stephen Schuster.

Featured on the album 2004,Franz Ferdinand

>> Lyrics >> More by the same : Website

10.53% / -0.23%

“Boy from School,” initially titled “And I Was a Boy from School,” marks Hot Chip’s 2006 foray into wistful indietronica, backed by EMI’s request for a truncated title.

The track draws multiple reinterpretations—from Portastatic’s lo-fi melancholy in 2006 to Tears For Fears’ synth-glazed 2013 take—stretching across genres with casual detachment.

Its video, drenched in paste and paper, courts comparisons to “Art Attack,” an aesthetic choice Alexis Taylor describes as financially unwise but amusingly extravagant.

Writer(s) : Alexis Benjamin Taylor, Joseph Goddard Publisher(s) : Goddard And Taylor Limited
Genres : indie_rock

Genres : Rock, Electronic, Pop,alternative dance, dance rock, electronica, indie rock, indietronica, neo-synthpop, new rave

Featured on the album 2006,The Warning

>> Lyrics >> More by the same : Website

9.14% / -0.41%

Anchored by Tom Smith’s brooding vocals, this 2007 track delves into themes of mortality and hope amidst despair. Its atmospheric guitar work and melancholic intensity embody the band’s post-punk revival sound, creating a sonic exploration of resilience in life’s darkest moments.

The music video is directed by Diane Martel.

Writer(s) : Thomas Michael Henry Smith, Russell Leetch, Christopher Dominic Urbanowicz, Edward Owen Lay Publisher(s) : Soul Kitchen Music Ltd
Genres : indie_rock

Genres : Rock,british indie rock, indie rock, modern rock, new rave

Featured on the album 2007,An End Has a Start

>> Lyrics >> More by the same : Website

9.02% / -0.04%

The minimalist acoustic ballad “I Will Follow You into the Dark” by Death Cab for Cutie is released in 2005. Written by lead singer Ben Gibbard, also involved in The Postal Service, the song delves into themes of mortality and unconditional love. It is acclaimed for its touching lyrics and stripped-down melody. Featured in TV series like “Grey’s Anatomy,” it becomes one of the band’s iconic tracks.

Writer(s) : Benjamin D Gibbard Publisher(s) : Emi Blackwood Music Inc, Where I M Calling From Music
Genres : Rock, Pop,alternative rock, canadian indie, chamber pop, indie rock, indietronica, modern rock, seattle indie, washington indie

Genres : Rock, Pop,alternative rock, canadian indie, chamber pop, indie rock, indietronica, modern rock, seattle indie, washington indie

Featured on the album 2005,Plans

>> Lyrics >> More by the same : Website

8.94% / -0.06%

Hot Chip’s “One Life Stand,” released digitally on 30 November 2009 and physically on 1 February 2010, is a synth-driven meditation on turning fleeting intimacy into permanence, penned and produced by Alexis Taylor, Joe Goddard, Al Doyle, Owen Clarke, and Felix Martin.

Its Roel Wouters-directed video features the band performing in a dizzying rotating space, interspersed with their own raw handycam footage.

Chart-wise, it peaked at #41 in the UK and #99 on Switzerland’s Airplay Chart.

The music video is directed by Jim Jarmusch.

Writer(s) : Nicholas John Mccarthy Publisher(s) : Universal Music Publishing Limited (Gb)
Genres : indie_rock

Genres : Rock, Electronic, Pop,alternative dance, dance rock, electronica, indie rock, indietronica, neo-synthpop, new rave

Featured on the album 2010,One Life Stand

>> Lyrics >> More by the same : Website

8.50% / -0.31%

“Steady As She Goes” by The Raconteurs, released in 2006, is the debut single from the supergroup formed by Jack White (The White Stripes) and Brendan Benson. With garage rock influences, the song features a catchy riff and lyrics about stability and change. The music video, directed by indie filmmaker Jim Jarmusch, shows the band playing in a minimalist setting.

The music video is directed by Associates in Science.

Writer(s) : Brendan Benson, Jack White Publisher(s) : Third String Tunes, Gladsad Music, Songs Of Universal Inc
Genres : Rock, Blues,alternative rock, garage rock, garage rock revival, indie rock, modern blues rock, modern rock, rock, supergroup

Genres : Rock, Blues,alternative rock, garage rock, garage rock revival, indie rock, modern blues rock, modern rock, rock, supergroup

The music video is directed by Associates in Science

Featured on the album 2006,Broken Boy Soldiers

>> Lyrics >> More by the same : Website

8.02% / -0.08%

“C’mere” by American alternative rock band Interpol, released in 2004, is a post-punk track. The band, consisting of Paul Banks, Daniel Kessler, Carlos Dengler, and Sam Fogarino, is known for dark atmospheres and introspective lyrics. “C’mere” addresses themes of desire and emotional frustration, praised for its intensity and musical depth.

The music video is directed by Nima Nourizadeh.

Writer(s) : Paul J Banks, Samuel J Fogarino, Daniel A Kessler, Carlos A Dengler Publisher(s) : Kobalt Music Services Ltd
Genres : Rock, Pop,alternative dance, alternative rock, indie rock, indietronica, modern rock, rock

Genres : Rock, Pop,alternative dance, alternative rock, indie rock, indietronica, modern rock, rock

The music video is directed by Nima Nourizadeh

Featured on the album 2004,Antics

>> Lyrics >> More by the same : Website

7.55% / -0.21%

Produced by Pelle Gunderfelt, “Hate To Say I Told You So” by The Hives, released in 2000, is a garage rock track known for its raw energy and punk attitude. Led by charismatic Pelle Almqvist, the Swedish band gains fame with this rebellious rock’n’roll anthem.

Writer(s) : Randy Fitzsimmons
Genres : Rock, Blues,alternative rock, garage rock, garage rock revival, modern rock, rock, swedish garage rock, swedish hard rock, swedish indie rock

Genres : Rock, Blues,alternative rock, garage rock, garage rock revival, modern rock, rock, swedish garage rock, swedish hard rock, swedish indie rock

Featured on the album 2000,Veni Vidi Vicious

>> Lyrics >> More by the same : Website

7.29% / -0.09%

“Obstacle 1” by Interpol, released in 2002, is an iconic post-punk revival track. Influenced by Joy Division and The Cure, the band is known for dark soundscapes and introspective lyrics, exemplified by lines like “I wish I could eat the salt off of your lost faded lips.” The song’s intensity and immersive atmosphere are heightened by a music video featuring a woman dancing before being electrocuted.

The music video is directed by Daniel Levi.

Writer(s) : Daniel Alexand Er Kessler, Carlos Andres Dengler, Samuel J Fogarino, Paul Julian Banks Publisher(s) : Kobalt Music Services Ltd
Genres : Rock, Pop,alternative dance, alternative rock, indie rock, indietronica, modern rock, rock

Genres : Rock, Pop,alternative dance, alternative rock, indie rock, indietronica, modern rock, rock

The music video is directed by Daniel Levi

Featured on the album 2002,Turn On The Bright Lights

>> Lyrics >> More by the same : Website

7.06% / -0.15%

Released in 2008, “I Like You So Much Better When You’re Naked” finds Norwegian musician Ida Maria having a moment on her debut album, Fortress ’round My Heart.

A U.S. release followed in May 2009, months after it entered the UK Singles Chart at 18 on downloads alone before peaking at 13.

The track also worked its way to number 34 in Ireland, 19 in Norway, 20 in Scotland, 55 in Australia, 40 on the Eurochart Hot 100, and 30 on Billboard’s Alternative Airplay chart.

The song lifts its melodic bounce from “The Tra La La Song” of The Banana Splits Adventure Hour, winkingly acknowledged in its official video.

On physical formats, the CD single pairs it with “Leave Me Let Me Go” as the B-side, while the 7″ vinyl opts for “Lightning.”

Ida Maria gave the track its late-night turn with a performance on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno in 2009.

In Australia, it earned a spot in Triple J’s Hottest 100 of 2008, proving that its title wasn’t the only thing getting attention.

Writer(s) : Ida Sivertsen Publisher(s) : Waterfall Music As, Emi Music Publishing Ltd
Genres : indie_rock

Genres : ,indie rock, alternative rock

Featured on the album 2008,Fortress Round My Heart

>> Lyrics >> More by the same : Website

6.62% / 0.57%

Released in 1997 on Pavement’s *Brighten the Corners*, “Shady Lane” drifts along on twin guitar melodies and slacker charm.

Stephen Malkmus delivers his lines in a casual, sing-song tone, threading cryptic lyrics through flashes of suburbia and gentle longing.

Somewhere between irony and sincerity, the song hints at craving comfort—or at least a spot of shade in the sprawl of adulthood.

Writer(s) : Stephen Joseph Malkmus Publisher(s) : Treble Kicker Publishing
Genres : indie_rock

Genres : Rock, Pop,alternative rock, chamber pop, indie rock, lo-fi, shoegaze

Featured on the album 1997,Brighten the Corners

>> Lyrics >> More by the same : Website

6.58% / -0.24%

“It’s Not Over Yet,” a 2007 cover by Klaxons of Grace’s dance-pop track featuring Paul Oakenfold, stands out with its rock, dance, and punk elements. As leaders of the British “new rave” movement, Klaxons bring a darker, more serious tone to the original optimistic, dance-oriented track, underpinned by a distinctive guitar riff.

Writer(s) : Paul Mark Oakenfold, Robert Berkeley Davis, Michael Domi Wyzgowski Publisher(s) : Circa Music Ltd, Paul Oakenfold Music
Genres : Rock, Pop,alternative dance, dance-punk, indie rock, modern rock, neo-synthpop, new rave

Genres : Rock, Pop,alternative dance, dance-punk, indie rock, modern rock, neo-synthpop, new rave

Featured on the album 2007,Myths of the Near Future

6.45% / -0.15%

The energetic garage rock track “Jerk It Out” by Swedish band Caesars Palace (also known as Caesars) is released in 2003. Its catchy guitar riff gains popularity through iPod Shuffle commercials and video games like “FIFA Football 2004.”

The music video is directed by Lope Serrano.

Writer(s) : Joakim Frans Ahlund Publisher(s) : Universal Music Publishing International Ltd
Genres : Rock,swedish indie rock

Genres : Rock,swedish indie rock

The music video is directed by Lope Serrano

Featured on the album 2002,Love for the Streets

>> Lyrics >> More by the same : Website

6.39% / -0.08%

Named single of the year 2006 by British music magazine NME, “Over and Over” by Hot Chip, released in 2006, is an electro-pop song distinguished by its hypnotic rhythm and repetitive lyrics set against dynamic synths, guitars, and electronic beats. The track quickly becomes a dance floor hit, praised for its originality and energy.

The music video is directed by Chris Grismer.

Writer(s) : Felix Martin, Joseph Goddard, Alexis Benjamin Taylor Publisher(s) : Goddard And Taylor Limited, Warner Chappell Music Ltd
Genres : Rock, Electronic, Pop,alternative dance, dance rock, electronica, indie rock, indietronica, neo-synthpop, new rave

Genres : Rock, Electronic, Pop,alternative dance, dance rock, electronica, indie rock, indietronica, neo-synthpop, new rave

The music video is directed by Chris Grismer

Featured on the album 2006,The Warning

>> Lyrics >> More by the same : Website

6.37% / -0.19%

“Fight Test” by The Flaming Lips, led by Wayne Coyne, released in 2002, is a psychedelic rock track known for philosophical lyrics exploring themes of regret, decision-making, and confrontation, with a catchy melody. Due to its similarity to Cat Stevens’ “Father and Son,” The Flaming Lips have to cede 75% of the royalties to Stevens.

The music video is directed by Arni & Kinski.

Writer(s) : Yusuf Islam, Wayne Micheal Coyne, Steven Gregory Drozd, David Fridmann, Michael Lee Ivins Publisher(s) : Songs Of Universal Inc, Lovely Sorts Of Death Music
Genres : Rock, Pop, Folk/Acoustic,alternative rock, chamber pop, indie rock, indietronica, noise pop, okc indie, singer-songwriter

Genres : Rock, Pop, Folk/Acoustic,alternative rock, chamber pop, indie rock, indietronica, noise pop, okc indie, singer-songwriter

The music video is directed by Arni & Kinski

Featured on the album 2002,Yoshimi Battles The Pink Robots

6.20% / -0.10%

“Evil” emerges as the second single from Interpol’s sophomore album “Antics,” unleashed upon the world in 2004.

The track ascends the UK Singles Chart ladder, pausing at No. 18, while etching itself as one of Interpol’s commercial highlights.

Directed by Charlie White, its music video, starring a puppet named Norman, grabs eyeballs with an artful yet eerie flair, securing its spot on MTV2’s rotation.

The tune boasts a rhythmic bassline complemented by structured guitar layers, staying true to Interpol’s post-punk revival essence.

From “Late Night with Conan O’Brien” episodes to a show-stealing Coachella 2005 slot, it leaves a resonant mark.

Appearing far and wide in TV and film, it racks up millions of views on YouTube.

Awards play coy, but “Antics” gains critical nods, amplifying Interpol’s global resonance in the mid-2000s.

The music video is directed by Richard Ayoade.

Writer(s) : Daniel A Kessler, Samuel J Fogarino, Paul Julian Banks, Carlos A Dengler Publisher(s) : Kobalt Music Services Ltd
Genres : indie_rock

Genres : Rock, Pop,alternative dance, alternative rock, indie rock, indietronica, modern rock, rock

Featured on the album 2004,Antics

>> Lyrics >> More by the same : Website

6.14% / -0.20%

The Music of Indie Rock

Indie Rock stands out with its use of traditional rock instruments like electric guitars, bass, and drums. However, it frequently experiments with unconventional instruments like violins and accordions, creating rich, diverse sound textures.

Indie Rock songs often feature catchy melodies and distinctive guitar riffs. Unlike mainstream rock, which typically follows a verse-chorus-verse structure, Indie Rock plays with freer, more experimental song structures. This flexibility allows for deeper exploration of themes and emotions through music.

The lo-fi production aesthetic of Indie Rock is marked by intentionally raw, sometimes imperfect recording quality, giving a sense of closeness and authenticity. Many Indie Rock artists embrace a DIY ethic, often recording in home studios with minimal equipment and capturing tracks in a single take.

The Words of Indie Rock

Indie Rock lyrics are frequently introspective and poetic, often deep and sometimes cryptic, covering a wide range of personal and social subjects.

Common themes include:
– Rebellion Against Social Norms: Encouraging awareness and truth.
– Search for Identity: Questions of who we are, where we belong, and existential musings on life and death.
– Melancholy: Reflecting on past memories and regrets over lost moments.
– Love: Explored in more complex and nuanced ways than typical pop ballads.
– Alienation and Isolation: Common themes reflecting feelings of not belonging.

The Cultural Impact of Indie Rock

By blending elements of alternative rock, punk, and pop, Indie Rock has paved the way for sub-genres like indie pop with its catchy songs, indie folk with its acoustic arrangements and poetic lyrics, and post-rock with its rich sound textures and extended compositions for immersive atmospheres.

Indie Rock has also had a significant impact on fashion and visual arts. The associated style often features vintage clothing, skinny jeans, and band t-shirts, promoting a relaxed and unconventional look.

The visual aesthetics of Indie Rock, with artistic album covers and creative music videos, have influenced many visual artists. Collaborations between musicians and visual artists have produced memorable works.

Indie Rock has gained visibility through its use in films, TV series, and advertisements, helping introduce the genre to a broader audience.

ADJACENT GENRES

• alternative rock
• modern rock
• indietronica
• new rave
• alternative dance
• chamber pop
• dance-punk
• britpop
• garage rock
• neo-synthpop
• baroque pop
• noise pop
• shimmer pop
• electronica
• dance rock
• shoegaze
• art pop
• melancholia