Starter Pack: Experimental Rock
Starter Pack: Experimental Rock
A culmination of 5 experimental rock albums worth checking out!
By: Eli Waterman
Volume 1, Issue 2: November/December 2018
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Experimental music is defined as “A general label for any music that pushes existing boundaries and genre definitions.” Hundereds of artists across every genre have made music that is considered “experimental,” however music under that label is often very abrasive and challenging, whether it is loud and overwhelming or quiet Below is a list a “starter pack” of 5 albums that fall under the category. Please consider giving these artists a listen.
1. They Might be Giants by Flood
They Might Be Giants is a weirdo/experimental rock group from Washington. Flood is probably their most well-known album. A standout song on this album is Birdhouse in Your Soul, which changes key eighteen times in three minutes. Many of the songs on this album are very short, barely breaking two minutes in length, so the short runtime allows for easy access for newcomers to the genre.
2. Ok Computer by Radiohead
Radiohead is a British rock band that has a long career, and wide influence across all genres. Ok Computer serves as the group's magnum opus. The album features long tracks that tell the story of a future where the world is so absorbed in technology that it falls out of line with humanity. Even though the album was released in 1997 it still holds up with shocking accuracy.
3. In the Court of the Crimson King by King Crimson
This is the oldest album on this list, it was released in 1969. King Crimson is known for its contributions to rock music, as well as setting the stage for early forms of metal. This album only has five songs, with many of the song reaching seven minutes in length, one even reaching twelve minutes. The album was seemingly designed to keep the listener's attention from beginning to end, with its seamless atmosphere of confusion, and constantly rotating cast of musicians.
4. Demon Days by Gorillaz
Gorillaz is an alternative music band that is known for blurring the lines between genres and the animated characters that make up the bands fictional members. While doing research for this article I discovered the album was inspired by a train trip the band's mastermind, Damon Albarn, was on that went through an area of China that had been completely left behind by the modern world. The albums apocalyptic nature is shown throughout with the sad abstract lyrics, and grim accompanying instrumentals.
5. The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and The Spiders from Mars by David Bowie
David Bowie is one of the most prolific musicians of the past several decades period. The album often considered his magnum opus is “The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and The Spiders From Mars.” this album is heavy with powerhouse choruses and excellent instrumentation. This is my favorite album of his discography by far.
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