Essential 1990s noise music

The best Noise Music albums of the 1990s.

Where to start with 1990–1999 noise music — with a one-line read on why each one matters.

Top of the 1990s — noise music

Top picks from 1990–1999, ranked by where we would start.

Psychic Hearts

Thurston Moore

Psychic Hearts

A raw, introspective blend of avant-garde rock and lo-fi experimentation that reveals Moore's personal narrative and artistic breadth.

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Pulse Demon

Merzbow

Pulse Demon

'Pulse Demon' exemplifies Merzbow's craft by merging abrasive sounds with rhythmic pulses, offering a comprehensive view of his artistic vision. This album captures the essence of his exploration into the extremes of noise, making it a fitting starting point for any listener.

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Cloud Cock OO Grand

Merzbow

Cloud Cock OO Grand

An immersive journey through dense textures and chaotic soundscapes that blur the lines between noise and structure.

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Live MCMXCIII

The Velvet Underground

Live MCMXCIII

A raw and visceral blend of avant-garde noise and pop melodies, capturing the essence of The Velvet Underground's legendary live energy.

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Twins!

Otomo Yoshihide

Twins!

A chaotic blend of free jazz improvisation and noise, creating an unpredictable sonic landscape that challenges conventional listening.

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Chronicles

The Velvet Underground

Chronicles

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Hussein Mahmood Jeeb Tehar Gass

Muslimgauze

Hussein Mahmood Jeeb Tehar Gass

A dense tapestry of rhythms and textures, weaving together ambient soundscapes with political undertones and cultural references.

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Deceiver

Muslimgauze

Deceiver

Ethereal soundscapes intertwine with heavy beats, creating a dense atmosphere that reflects political strife and cultural identity.

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Never Forget Death

Whitehouse

Never Forget Death

A harrowing blend of relentless noise and visceral power electronics, creating an unsettling atmosphere that demands undivided attention.

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Twice Is Not Enough

Whitehouse

Twice Is Not Enough

Brutal sonic landscapes merge with disturbing themes, challenging listeners to confront the darkest corners of human experience.

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Senzuri Fight Back

The Gerogerigegege

Senzuri Fight Back

A chaotic blend of harsh noise and punk rhythms, embodying the defiance of underground Japanese music culture.

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