Essential jangle pop listening

The albums that define jangle pop.

Our picks for where to start with jangle pop — with a one-line read on why each one matters.

The jangle pop essentials

Twenty-four picks. Press play on any of them.

Up

R.E.M.

Up

A reflective blend of melancholic melodies and introspective lyrics, capturing a transitional moment in R.E.M.'s evolution.

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R.E.M.: Singles Collected

R.E.M.

R.E.M.: Singles Collected

A vibrant collection showcasing R.E.M.'s jangle pop melodies and introspective lyrics that defined '80s alternative rock.

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The Smiths

The Smiths

The Smiths

A shimmering blend of jangly guitars and melancholic lyrics that define 80s indie rock's introspective edge.

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...Best II

The Smiths

...Best II

Melodic jangle pop intertwined with melancholic lyrics, creating a sound both uplifting and introspective.

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Ringleader of the Tormentors

Morrissey

Ringleader of the Tormentors

A lush orchestral backdrop intertwines with Morrissey's signature lyrical introspection and sardonic wit.

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Maladjusted

Morrissey

Maladjusted

A reflective exploration of disillusionment wrapped in jangly guitars and Morrissey's signature baritone.

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Uncertain

The Cranberries

Uncertain

Dreamy melodies intertwine with haunting vocals, creating an ethereal soundscape that whispers of uncertainty and longing.

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Something Else

The Cranberries

Something Else

A lush blend of orchestral arrangements and intimate vocals that evoke nostalgia and longing.

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Det kommer aldrig va över för mig

Håkan Hellström

Det kommer aldrig va över för mig

Anthemic melodies intertwine with introspective lyrics, creating a vibrant tapestry of emotion and nostalgia.

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Ett kolikbarns bekännelser

Håkan Hellström

Ett kolikbarns bekännelser

A melodic tapestry of reflective storytelling woven through folk-pop soundscapes and introspective lyrics.

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Camper Vantiquities

Camper Van Beethoven

Camper Vantiquities

A whimsical blend of jangle pop and eclectic rock, layered with clever lyrics and diverse instrumentation.

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Our Beloved Revolutionary Sweetheart

Camper Van Beethoven

Our Beloved Revolutionary Sweetheart

A kaleidoscopic blend of jangle pop, folk influences, and eclectic instrumentation that defies genre boundaries.

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2

Mac DeMarco

2

Lo-fi charm and jangly guitar melodies create a laid-back, sun-soaked atmosphere throughout the album.

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Salad Days

Mac DeMarco

Salad Days

Lush melodies and laid-back grooves weave together in a sun-soaked tapestry of introspection and nostalgia.

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The Messenger

Johnny Marr

The Messenger

An eclectic mix of jangly guitars, introspective lyrics, and upbeat melodies that reflect Marr's signature style.

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Call the Comet

Johnny Marr

Call the Comet

A shimmering blend of jangly guitars and reflective lyrics wrapped in atmospheric production.

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Are You Listening?

Dolores O'Riordan

Are You Listening?

A blend of introspective lyrics and ethereal melodies, exploring themes of love, loss, and resilience.

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No Baggage

Dolores O'Riordan

No Baggage

Ethereal melodies intertwine with introspective lyrics, creating a haunting yet uplifting atmosphere throughout the album.

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Dove (Belly album)

Belly

Dove (Belly album)

Ethereal melodies intertwine with introspective lyrics, creating a lush soundscape that captures both nostalgia and longing.

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Star

Belly

Star

Ethereal melodies intertwine with jangly guitars and introspective lyrics, crafting a dreamlike alternative rock experience.

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Spin This

The Rembrandts

Spin This

Bright melodies and harmonized vocals weave through relatable narratives in a polished pop-rock landscape.

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LP

The Rembrandts

LP

Melodic jangle pop harmonies intertwine with heartfelt lyrics and catchy hooks, embodying the quintessential sound of the mid-90s.

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Album

Girls

Album

A vibrant blend of jangly guitars and introspective lyrics captures the youthful exuberance and melancholy of urban life.

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Father, Son, Holy Ghost

Girls

Father, Son, Holy Ghost

A meditative blend of jangle pop and introspective lyrics wrapped in lush, atmospheric soundscapes.

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