The albums that define
alternative music.
Our picks for where to start with alternative music — with a one-line read on why each one matters.
Top alternative music artists
Start with one of these.
The alternative music essentials
Twenty-four picks. Press play on any of them.
AURORA
All My Demons Greeting Me as a Friend
Ethereal vocals weave through haunting melodies, blending pop sensibilities with Nordic folk influences.
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AURORA
What Happened to the Heart?
Ethereal synths intertwine with haunting vocals, creating a dreamlike soundscape that explores the depths of emotion and identity.
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Melanie Martinez
Portals
Ethereal soundscapes intertwine with introspective lyrics, crafting a surreal journey through the complexities of identity and existence.
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Melanie Martinez
K-12
A whimsical yet dark exploration of childhood themes wrapped in catchy pop melodies and electronic beats.
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Arsee
Set W 3eshra
A captivating blend of alternative and hip-hop infused with experimental textures reflecting contemporary Jordanian culture.
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Arsee
THE LOST TAPES EP
A vibrant blend of experimental hip-hop and alternative sounds, rich with regional influences and innovative rhythms.
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Arsee
DON'T HATE WHAT YOU DON'T UNDERSTAND
A dynamic fusion of alternative and experimental hip-hop layered with vivid cultural narratives and rhythmic complexity.
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Arsee
B Arba3 Ayam
A fusion of hip-hop beats and experimental sounds reflecting the rich cultural tapestry of Jordan.
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Ellie Goulding
Brightest Blue
Ethereal synths intertwine with introspective lyrics, creating a lush and atmospheric exploration of love and self-discovery.
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Ellie Goulding
An Introduction to Ellie Goulding
Ethereal vocals intertwine with electronic beats and acoustic elements, creating a dreamy pop landscape.
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Ellie Goulding
Halcyon Days
A vibrant tapestry of synths and soaring vocals creating an uplifting blend of pop and dreamlike atmospheres.
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Ellie Goulding
Delirium
A vibrant blend of electropop and indie influences, pulsing with infectious energy and emotional resonance.
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Ellie Goulding
Halcyon
Ethereal synth-driven melodies intertwine with poignant lyrics, creating a dreamlike sonic landscape that captivates the listener.
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Ellie Goulding
Lights
Ethereal synths intertwine with haunting vocals, creating a shimmering soundscape that feels both intimate and expansive.
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Ellie Goulding
Higher Than Heaven
Ethereal synths and pulsating beats intertwine with Goulding's airy vocals, creating a euphoric sonic landscape.
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Ellie Goulding
Run Into the Light
Ethereal remixes transform Ellie Goulding's dreamy pop into a vibrant soundscape that pulses with energy and emotion.
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AURORA
Infections Of A Different Kind (Step 1)
AURORA's ethereal vocals intertwine with haunting melodies, crafting a dreamlike exploration of vulnerability and self-discovery.
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AURORA
A Different Kind of Human (Step 2)
Ethereal synths and haunting vocals weave through explorations of identity and connection in a vibrant sonic landscape.
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AURORA
Running With the Wolves
AURORA's ethereal vocals soar over haunting melodies and pulsating rhythms, creating a mystical soundscape that captivates the listener.
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AURORA
The Gods We Can Touch
AURORA's ethereal vocals soar over a blend of dark pop and Nordic folk, creating an otherworldly atmosphere.
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Melanie Martinez
Dollhouse
A haunting blend of whimsical melodies and dark lyrical themes, wrapped in a colorful yet eerie aesthetic.
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Melanie Martinez
Cry Baby
A whimsical blend of dark pop and electronic beats, exploring childhood themes with sharp lyrical wit.
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Melanie Martinez
After School EP
A playful yet introspective blend of electronic beats and confessional lyrics that explore youth and self-discovery.
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Maggie Rogers
Heard It in a Past Life
A blend of introspective lyricism and shimmering pop production that captures the essence of personal growth and self-discovery.
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