Bands & artists like Stephen Malkmus

If you like Stephen Malkmus, these artists play in similar sounds, ideas, or styles. Use this as a starting point to branch out and find something new to listen to.

Artists to try next

Pavement

Pavement

Guide

As the band Stephen Malkmus fronted, Pavement shares his penchant for intricate melodies and loose, laid-back rhythms.

alternative rock
Built to Spill

Built to Spill

Guide

Their use of unconventional song structures and melodic guitar lines aligns closely with Malkmus's style.

Midwest emo alternative rock indie rock
Neutral Milk Hotel

Neutral Milk Hotel

With their lo-fi production and eclectic instrumentation, they create an engaging tension reminiscent of Malkmus's work.

indie folk indie rock lo-fi music
Yo La Tengo

Yo La Tengo

Guide

Their ability to blend various genres with intricate melodies and a relaxed approach parallels Malkmus's sonic palette.

indie rock
Beck

Beck

Guide

Beck's experimental approach to rock and pop, along with his clever lyricism, resonates well with Malkmus's artistic sensibilities.

alternative hip-hop alternative rock anti-folk
Modest Mouse

Modest Mouse

Guide

They share a knack for combining off-kilter rhythms with thoughtful lyrics and melodic hooks akin to Malkmus's style.

indie rock lo-fi music
Sonic Youth

Sonic Youth

Guide

Their avant-garde approach to rock music and use of dissonance can appeal to fans of Malkmus's more experimental tendencies.

alternative rock experimental rock indie rock
The Decemberists

The Decemberists

Guide

Known for their narrative-driven lyrics and diverse instrumentation, they share a whimsical quality present in Malkmus's music.

art rock

Common questions

Who sounds like Stephen Malkmus?

Artists similar to Stephen Malkmus include Pavement, Built to Spill, Neutral Milk Hotel and Yo La Tengo. Each shares elements of Stephen Malkmus's sound while bringing their own perspective.

What genre is Stephen Malkmus?

Stephen Malkmus is primarily known for indie rock. Malkmus crafts intricate melodies that rest lightly atop loose rhythms, using space and unexpected shifts to maintain an engaging tension throughout his music.

Where should I start if I like Stephen Malkmus?

If you enjoy Stephen Malkmus, start with Pavement — their album "Crooked Rain, Crooked Rain" is a great entry point. As the band Stephen Malkmus fronted, Pavement shares his penchant for intricate melodies and loose, laid-back rhythms.