British Indie Bands Shaped American Alternative Rock
Three 1980s British indie bands defined American alternative rock's sound.
In brief
Three 1980s British indie bands defined American alternative rock's sound. American alternative rock owes its rise to Scottish shoegaze band The Jesus And Mary Chain, post-punk group Joy Division, and The Smiths. Originally reported by VICE.
The Jesus And Mary Chain
The Jesus And Mary Chain pioneered shoegaze and dream pop in the late 1980s and early 1990s.
“Iconic Nirvana frontman Kurt Cobain publicly praised the Scottish band on multiple occasions”
Joy Division
Joy Division ended just as they began after frontman Ian Curtis died one day before their first North American tour.
“Their debut album unknown pleasures became one of the most important independent releases in the 1980s”
The Smiths
The Smiths influenced 2000s alternative bands through frontman Morrissey and Johnny Marr's jangly melodies.
“Countless alternative bands emerged in the 2000s echoing the sounds of The Smiths”
At a glance
American alternative rock owes its rise to Scottish shoegaze band The Jesus And Mary Chain, post-punk group Joy Division, and The Smiths.
