2024 was another year for the books, in all ways good and bad. But let’s focus on the good—some seriously awesome artists found footholds, and a few albums dropped that will stay in our rotation forever. So let’s take a moment to appreciate the innovative alternative rock music albums that came out last year with this round up.
What is Alternative Rock Music?
Alternative rock is a band’s “f—you” to the industry. It’s rock music that doesn’t follow the traditional “formula” and breaks structure rules, jumps genres, and produces unique sounds specific to each band. Alternative originally meant anything outside of the mainstream, but these days it’s more about the attitude of the band than the airtime.
Characteristics
- Gritty guitars and unconventional song structures.
- Lyrics that actually say something, whether it’s personal or political.
- A DIY spirit—this genre was born in garages and small clubs, not corporate boardrooms.
Types
- Indie Rock: Like the Arctic Monkeys or The Strokes—catchy but quirky.
- Post-Punk Revival: Sharp, angular riffs and a bit of an attitude.
- Shoegaze: Layers of sound so thick you could get lost in them.
- Grunge: The heavier, angstier cousin with roots in Seattle and lots of flannel.
10 Alternative Rock Albums You Have to Hear
Grab a bev, crank up the volume, and get ready to be blown away by 2024’s top alternative rock albums—there are a few that we’re sure will surprise you.
#1. 6 Kitty: Under Pins
If you haven’t heard Under Pins yet, go fix that. Right now. 6kitty’s second album feels like an electric jolt to the Chicago alt-rock scene. Lots of raw, angular guitars layered with hypnotic rhythms and vocals that swing between detached cool and full-on emotional collapse.
Tracks like “Concrete Garden” and “Sink or Swim” live rent-free in our heads. The production leans just enough into lo-fi grit without losing clarity, and there’s an urgency to these songs—like the band’s making music because they have to, not because they want to.
#2. The Transference: 100 Mirrors
The Transference has always had a thing for bending reality with their sound, but 100 Mirrors is next level. This album feels like walking through a hall of distorted reflections: familiar yet unsettling, with melodies that swirl and lyrics that hit harder than you expect.
Lead single “Fractured Lines” became our favorite pretty quickly. It lives in that sweet spot between accessible and experimental. If you like your rock with a side of existential dread and the occasional unexpected tempo shift, this is your jam.
#3. Kim Deal: Nobody Loves You More
Kim Deal came back swinging this year, proving yet again why she’s an alt-rock legend. Nobody Loves You More blends sharp-edged guitars with deceptively sweet melodies. The standout track, “Plastic Crowns,” feels like a Pixies b-side that got lost in the ‘90s and resurfaced with more bite.
#4. Rachel Drew: Old Sky New
Chicago singer-songwriter Rachel Drew gave us a timeless record with Old Sky New. There’s something comforting about these songs—like sitting in a warm, familiar bar while the jukebox plays tunes you didn’t realize you missed.
#5. Jazmin Bean: TRAUMATIC LIVELIHOOD
If chaos were an album, it would sound like TRAUMATIC LIVELIHOOD. Jazmin Bean mixes hyperpop and punk influences into a wild, unpredictable ride. “Sugar Overdose” sounds like a candy-colored panic attack in the best way possible.
#6. Linkin Park: Papercuts
Yeah, Linkin Park came back with a collection of remastered classics and a couple of previously unreleased tracks. And guess what? It still hits. “Forgotten Lines” reminds you why this band defined a generation of angsty teenagers (and adults who won’t admit it).
#7. The Cure: Songs of a Lost World
Robert Smith’s voice still cuts through the noise like no one else’s. Songs of a Lost World is melancholic, melodic, and unmistakably The Cure.
#8. Jessica Pratt: Here in the Pitch
This one’s more folk-rock than straight alt, but Here in the Pitch is so good we made an exception. Jessica Pratt’s dreamy vocals float through layers of reverb that make you feel like you’re in a sunlit daydream.
#9. Beabadoobee: This Is How Tomorrow Moves
Beabadoobee’s 2024 release mixes her signature indie-rock vibes with a more polished, pop-forward sound. “Glass Walls” is the kind of track you’ll find yourself humming all day without realizing it.
#10. Bnny: One Million Love Songs
Bnny closed out our list with an album that’s equal parts heartbreak and hazy, late-night reflection. Perfect for those “stare at the ceiling at 2 a.m.” kind of nights.
Looking to the Future: Chicago Artists To Watch
If 2024 was any indication, Chicago’s alt-rock scene is only getting better. Keep your ears open for these names:
6kitty: They’re already making waves with Under Pins, and their live shows are becoming the place to be.
The Transference: 100 Mirrors gave us a taste of their evolving sound—expect more twists and turns now that they’ve signed with Hardstop Records.
Alternative Rock Music Albums: Frequently Asked Questions
Alternative Rock Music Albums: Frequently Asked QuestionsWhat is alternative rock in music?
Alternative rock is a broad genre of rock music that experiments with sound, structure, and style. It often mixes influences from punk, post-punk, indie, and grunge.
What is the best alternative rock?
The “best” alternative rock is subjective, but classics like Radiohead’s OK Computer or Nirvana’s Nevermind are universally recognized. In 2024? Under Pins by 6kitty and 100 Mirrors by The Transference top our list.
Is alternative rock and grunge the same?
Not exactly. Grunge is a subgenre of alt-rock known for its distorted guitars and angsty lyrics. Think Pearl Jam or Alice in Chains.
What is indie rock?
Indie rock is a genre of rock music known for its independent and diverse sound. It originated with bands releasing music without major label support. Indie rock spans jangly, guitar-driven tracks to atmospheric, experimental sounds. Notable bands include The Strokes, Arctic Monkeys, Pixies, and 6kitty.
Become the Next Best Album of 2025—Join Hardstop Records!
Inspired by these albums? Think your music deserves a spot on next year’s list? We’re always listening—literally. Founder Tom Spira personally hears every submission. If you’ve got the sound and the drive, we want to hear it. Submit your music, and let’s make some noise together.