The Most Underrated Alternative Bands You Need to Hear

Alternative music has really exploded in popularity over the past decade, with countless new bands popping up regularly and making a name for themselves. However, with so many bands vying for attention, there are always a few that slip through the cracks. These are the bands that don't get the attention they deserve, the ones that are truly underrated. In this article, we'll explore some of the most underrated alternative bands out there, and why you need to give them a listen.

1. Circa Waves

Hailing from Liverpool, England, Circa Waves burst onto the scene with their upbeat and energetic debut album, "Young Chasers." Released in 2015, the album showcased the band's knack for writing infectious indie rock anthems with catchy hooks and sing-along choruses. Despite receiving critical acclaim, the album failed to make much of a commercial impact. Since then, the band has released two more albums, each one showcasing their evolution as songwriters and performers. With their blend of catchy melodies and infectious energy, Circa Waves is a band that deserves more attention.

2. Palaye Royale

Palaye Royale is a Canadian rock band known for their theatrical live shows and flamboyant fashion sense. The trio has been making music since 2008, but it wasn't until their 2018 album "Boom Boom Room (Side B)" that they gained wider recognition. The album features a blend of pop-punk, glam rock, and alt-rock, with catchy hooks and anthemic choruses. The band's fashion sense, which borrows heavily from old-school punk and glam icons like David Bowie and The Sex Pistols, has also garnered them a devoted fanbase. If you're looking for a band that brings energy and style to the table, Palaye Royale is definitely worth a listen.

3. The Sherlocks

Hailing from Sheffield, England, The Sherlocks create anthemic, guitar-driven indie rock that is both nostalgic and fresh. The quartet's debut album, "Live for the Moment," was released in 2017 and quickly gained a reputation for its infectious hooks and sing-along choruses. Since then, the band has released two more albums, further solidifying their place as one of the most promising indie rock bands in the UK. With their catchy melodies, relatable lyrics, and high-energy live shows, The Sherlocks are a band that deserves more attention.

4. Judah & the Lion

Judah & the Lion is a band that isn't easy to categorize. They blend elements of folk, rock, and hip-hop to create a sound that is truly unique. The band's breakthrough came in 2016 with the release of their album "Folk Hop N' Roll," which showcased their genre-bending style and catchy songwriting. Their follow-up album, 2019's "Pep Talks," delved even deeper into personal and emotional subject matter, showcasing the band's growth as songwriters. With their infectious energy and genre-defying sound, Judah & the Lion is definitely a band that deserves more attention.

5. The Weeks

Hailing from Jackson, Mississippi, The Weeks create music that is both soulful and raucous. The band's blend of southern rock, blues, and indie rock has earned them a devoted following, but they still remain relatively unknown outside of their fanbase. Their 2013 album "Dear Bo Jackson" showcased the band's soulful side, with gritty, heartfelt lyrics and bluesy guitar riffs. Their follow-up album, 2017's "Easy," brought more of a rock edge to their sound, with bigger hooks and more anthemic choruses. With their raw energy and soulful sound, The Weeks are definitely a band that deserves more attention.

6. Vundabar

Boston-based duo Vundabar creates music that is both playful and introspective. Their 2018 album "Smell Smoke" showcased their knack for writing catchy, upbeat indie rock songs that belie their darker lyrical themes. The band's lo-fi sound gives their music a sense of intimacy and immediacy, as if you're listening in on a private conversation. With their wit, humor, and introspection, Vundabar is a band that deserves more attention.

7. Cigarettes After Sex

Cigarettes After Sex is a band that creates dreamy, atmospheric music that is both melancholy and romantic. The band's 2017 self-titled debut album showcased their ethereal sound, with lush instrumentation and lead singer Greg Gonzalez's hushed vocals. Their music is perfect for late-night listening, with its dreamy textures and intimate lyrics creating a sense of intimacy and connection. With their hauntingly beautiful sound, Cigarettes After Sex is a band that deserves more attention.

In conclusion, these are just a few of the most underrated alternative bands out there that deserve your attention. Each one brings something unique to the table, whether it's infectious energy, genre-defying soundscapes, or emotionally charged songwriting. If you're a fan of alternative music, do yourself a favor and give these bands a listen - you won't be disappointed.