Best British Indie Bands
Oasis were an English rock band formed in Manchester in 1991. Developed from an earlier group, the Rain, the band originally consisted of Liam Gallagher (vocals and tambourine), Paul "Bonehead" Arthurs, Paul "Guigsy" McGuigan, and Tony McCarroll. I have listened to Arctic Monkeys, Kasabian, The Wombats and Oasis and almost everything else on this list enough to tell my opinion (so if you haven't listened to everything don't bother to comment), and I've come to the conclusion that Oasis has the most classical and rhythmic songs. Others are all very good and in fact really good, but they just need the harmony and experience which Oasis has had.
Beautiful music everything they do addicting lyrics and the cord production is wonderful on every song. They really are the best indie band from the UK. They write songs with meaning, passion, and soul. Even though the broke up what they did while they were together was absolutely genius. I love them after all they're my wonderwall.
I am a huge fan of the Artic Monkeys but how are oasis not first. They are the hearts and should of British music and there contribution to music has been outstanding. There was not one bad song on the first two albums and even when they had so called "bad" albums, there were still 4 or 5 fantastic songs on those albums
Oasis is the band that made Indie music popular. They were the indie music of the 90's. The BEST. And Noel is the best songwriter of a generation and combined with me amazing voice of Liam they made one of the greatest band.
If it weren't for them, some bands would not exist.
OASIS one of the BEST BAND EVER
The Arctic Monkeys, otherwise known as the Death Ramps, are a British indie rock band formed in 2002 in Sheffield, England. The band consists of Alex Turner (lead vocalist, songwriter, electric and rhythm guitarist), Jamie Cook (electric and rhythm guitarist, songwriter), Matt Helders (percussionist, ...read more. Simply, no one can top the monkeys with their UNFORGETTABLE lyrics and riffs every single tune released. They have a different sound every album that keeps the listeners on their toes wondering what's in store, but nonetheless are ALWAYS pleased with the content released. Been around since Humbug, and have never been displeased with any tune and that says something special for me, and I'm sure that speaks a lot for any monkeys listener.
The verve, the kaiser chiefs and oasis are all pretty good, but honestly who could beat the monkeys? THey beat all the bands on this list just by having such a cool name! Rock on Monkeys! Oh and don't sit down because I moved your chair! LEGENDS! X
Usually I lost my interest in bands if they become 'mainstream' and everyone is talking about their music. BUT Unfortunately I got to know their music through radio... So I became a fan when they've already been mainstream. And this time, I just really don't care they are extremely well-known and popular. They deserve it. Great music, great lyrics. Not perfect, but that way it'd be boring ;) I really liked British Indie. Now I LOVE it. xoxo
I think Arctic Monkeys are amazing and have been my favorite band for a really long time. I was so happy when I saw that Arctic Monkeys were number one. My friends don't really approve of them though :(. But seriously I love them!
Radiohead are an English rock band from Abingdon, Oxfordshire, formed in 1985. The band consists of Thom Yorke (lead vocals, guitar, piano, keyboards), Jonny Greenwood (lead guitar, keyboards, other instruments), Colin Greenwoood (bass guitar), Phil Selway (drums), and Ed O'Brien (guitar). Radiohead's unique sound and unique lyrics beat any other band's easily. No other band on this list has achieved as much as Radiohead has in music over the past years. Take, for example, the fact that Radiohead has made it to Billboard's top 100 rock songs of the 90's. Take, for example, how long Radiohead has stayed in the music industry and how long the band has prospered. No other band has achieved this much, this fast and during its career as a band. Many other bands only achieve this status after they have fallen apart.26 years in the music industry. That's big. The Beatles lasted less than half that time.
Well I love arctic monkeys too but Radiohead is Radiohead and will always be Radiohead, they don't fit in any genre or style, they have their own genre. And the feelings you got in each songs of these guys, man they are unique. Their bests albums are in my opinion "OK Computer" and "In Rainbows", and if I had to recommend a song to any person in Earth will always be "Paranoid Android" that's its just a masterpiece.
Not many bands are able to not only stand the test of time, but do so while drastically altering their sound and style from album to album without losing or isolating their fans. While I enjoy some Radiohead albums more than others, you can not deny their creativity, musicianship and ability. I also agree that OK Computer is quite possibly the best album of all time, across all genres, ever.
Radiohead keeps evolving their sound, with every record different from the next and its inspiring. Their lyrics are thought provoking, their music speaks to the soul, they are everything you'd want in a band and more.
The Stone Roses are an English rock band formed in Manchester in 1983. One of the pioneering groups of the Madchester movement in the late 1980s and early 1990s, the band's lineup consists of vocalist Ian Brown, guitarist John Squire, bassist Mani and drummer Reni. The Roses should be further up because they originated and founded the Madchester sound that other bands on this list kind of adopted. They ushered in a new sound in the rock genre. They had ups and downs but their ups were amazing. They had great lyrics, John was probably one of the best guitarists to come out of England and their instrumentals were unbelivable. I even like the way Ian isn't the best singer, his voice has enough of that distinctive Manchester accent and character to appeal to the bands target audience which was mainly northerners. Unreal band
Should be top of the list. Brown and Squire = Jagger Richards. If it wasn't for the Roses the indie scene wouldn't have spawned the talent it did likevthe happy Mondays or inspirall carpets who also don't feature in the top ten yet blur do! Your having a laugh. No roses and Oasis would never of happened to the admission of Noel Gallagher himself who also quoted"the stone roses are the best band in the world"
Should be number 1, the indie scene didn't have a definitive "sound" before them but it sure did afterwards. Can't believe the bands people are placing above them, ridiculous. The Arctic Monkeys FFS! It's like having a top ten punk list without the Sex Pistols at number 1 or a 60's list without the Beatles.
It's crazy that the Stone Roses are not on this list. Anyone who knows anything about British Indie bands, knows the Stone Roses were one of the most seminal and highly rated British indie bands of their time. And what about The Smiths, and on a lower scale - Blur? Heloo?
Blur are an English rock band, formed in London in 1988. The group consists of singer/keyboardist/guitarist Damon Albarn, guitarist/singer Graham Coxon, bassist Alex James and drummer Dave Rowntree. Stereophonics should be in this space!
blur, the choice band of those whom hater Oasis and got as big as they did for that solo reason, don't get me wrong there are some class tunes within these albums, some real standout songs that bring back that "back in the day" reminiscing.
I always got a scenes that blur were always afraid to get their hands as dirty as Oasis or ocean colour scene with their music and that young posh anarchist impression could never compete with the pure grit other bands delivered.
"Oi Damo" when you coming back to visit Aldham?
Ok firstly oasis aren't an indie band well they sort of are but their more rock than indie. like there about 5% indie while blur are 45% indie and are still together and all in all way better than oasis
My favourite band of all time. A band that would fit in everywhere, they would always find a way to move with the changes in scene and culture and always have a good solid body of work and fan base.
Number 20, that's nuts. They moved with the times and were always amazing. Every album from leisure to think tank was incredible.
My number one, but should definitely be in the top 5
X
The Smiths were an English rock band formed in Manchester in 1982. The band consisted of vocalist Morrissey, guitarist Johnny Marr, bassist Andy Rourke and drummer Mike Joyce. The smiths are without the doubt the meaning of the word indie/alternative, unlike many of the above they actually sing about real things in life and not continuous rubbish, they are the true sense of British and influence people of all generations. Ironic, original and beautiful creatures. Oh morrissey with his therapeutic voice healing the soul every time a person listens, and Johnny marr with his enduring and spirit lifting guitar playing, honestly would make anyone who actually have one bit of interest in indie music would feel like they are in heaven.
Why are the Smiths so low down? They are the ones who started indie and without them their would be no Arctic Monkeys, no Libertines, no Strokes (Lou Reed was a bigger influence on the Strokes) and no Oasis. Johnny Marr's guitar playing is iconic and Morrissey's voice can't be described by words. I am fourteen and the thing I love about this list is that even though it is in a bad order, practically all the bands on here are amazing! I love indie rock and I think a few new bands such as the Vaccines and the Horrors should be included on here.P.S. listen to Spector, they are brilliant! :) x
Not even in the top 20? That is a disgrace to Indie music I say. Don't get me wrong I love Oasis, Arctic Monkeys etc but The Smiths were the band that started it all (If not The Jam or Joy Division were). Morrissey's lyrics defined a generation, Johnny Marr's guitar playing is some of the best ever. Andy Rourke and Mike Joyce are such an underrated rhythm section which is a real disappointment as they are amazing.
All other bands in this list create(d) music fit to a specific time. The Smiths music is timeless. All one needs to do is look at their debut album (debut! ), and see that it doesn't fall under any genre. Their originality and uniqueness earn them the #1 spot, in my opinion. Their influence on the others in the list have already been mentioned by others.
Coldplay are a British rock band formed in 1996. The band consists of Chris Martin (lead vocalist and pianist), Jonny Buckland (lead guitarist), Guy Berryman (bassist) and Will Champion (drummer and backing vocalist). Manager Phil Harvey is often considered an unofficial fifth member. The band renamed ...read more. Album #1 Parachutes is the truest form of Coldplay you will find up until X&Y where Coldplay discover and pronounce a more rock ethic approach, unfortunately - and it's a big unfortunate the later pieces are getting more and more "pop" which intern sends a somewhat "Erhhh" across my mouth box, it would appear that even as big and as branded Coldplay still are they have lost their way in my opinion, which of these two can you lip sync easier to off the top of you head "Yellow" or "Ghost story"? See what I mean?
Coldplay are hardly Indie, they're 95% Alternative Rock, I don't know why they are even on this list. Obviously great band though and consistent too.
Coldplay owns! Best band ever in this world! But I have to agree with the guy before, they're mostly Alt Rock.
Coldplay's music is much more to be Alternative Rock I think..
The Verve were an English rock band formed in Wigan in 1990 by lead vocalist Richard Ashcroft, guitarist Nick McCabe, bass guitarist Simon Jones and drummer Peter Salisbury. Guitarist and keyboard player Simon Tong became a member at a later date. In my opinion: The Verve were and still are completely underestimated and stereo typed for the commercial hits only (the drugs don't work & the one with the stolen riff for example), unlike other indie bands Ashcroft and the Verve fear not to go ambient in an alternative way which is something that's been missing from Indie since Pink Floyd. To be ranked on a totally different scale.
what is Arctic Monkeys doing in the number 1 spot?
And,
Where is Elbow and the Guilemots? don't make me go to page 2!
While Blur and Oasis are the better bands (my favorite band is blur) no one can match the swagger and vocal prowess of Richard Ashcroft. Listen to their albums... They're absolutely incredible. The Verve are a definite #3 on this list for sure.
The verve is the most innovative band in the world and probably the greatest underrated band ever!
Verve sure deserve a top 3 spot. Superb vocals lyrics and music. Awesome album quality.
This is the chance Noel always wanted to take the lead completely, they are a good band but entice obvious Oasis vibes ad without the "yeyaaaryeee" back of the tongue and head back whine from Liam you get a sense of something missing!
If you like OASIS. You have to Love Noel. He's God, the best songwriter of a generation. His music is beautiful and the lyrics are amazing. He's from another planet.
Kaiser Chiefs are an English indie rock band from Leeds who formed in 2000 as Parva, releasing one studio album, 22, in 2003, before renaming and establishing themselves in their current name that same year. They may not be as big as some of the others on this list, but they are quite arguably the most innovative and influential, so long as you exclude Radiohead, to be honest Radiohead shouldn't even be on this list anyway as they're not actually an Indie band.
Best cool indie band ever, you rock kaiser cheifs... love the upbeat tempo of last few albums! Last album bit slower
I like a lot here on the list! But kaiser chiefs stands out. Their music is great!
Awesome band very underrated, newest album is really good. Great guitarist.
"Oh Liam! " there's lots of opportunity with this band but without the song writers skill its found lacking, "expectation! ". much harder than the style of the high flying birds and there lye the issue of comparison to both Noels crew and Oasis, there was always going to be conflicting comparisons and without good backing vocals and harmonics you will find Liam's vocals much too "in ya face".
New Order are an English rock band formed in 1980, currently comprising Bernard Sumner, Stephen Morris, Gillian Gilbert, Phil Cunningham and Tom Chapman. How are New Order at 22!? Joy Division and them should be at 1 and 2...best British Indie/Alternative Rock bands ever!
If it wasn't for them or Joy Division a majority of the other Indie/Alternative Rock bands on this list would not have been around.
Surely they should be in the top 10. Best British band along with smiths and the cure
I don't understand why New Order are so down low! That can't be :/
Oh wow, I remember these guys!
The Cure are an English rock band formed in Crawley, West Sussex, in 1976. The band has experienced several line-up changes, with vocalist, guitarist and principal songwriter Robert Smith being the only constant member. The Cure is number what now?! Are you kidding me? Talk about timeless! I grew up on them and STILL love their tunes!
I don't think they're Indie at all. They're Post-Punk, Alternative Rock, and Gothic Rock.
If you wanna listen to real indie music go to them - or arctic monkeys.
I don't understand how can the be so low on the list.
Pulp were an English rock band formed in Sheffield in 1978. Their best-known line-up from their heyday consisted of Jarvis Cocker, Candida Doyle, Russell Senior, Mark Webber, Steve Mackey and Nick Banks. Jarvis is one if the greatest lyricists of the past 30 years and sum up real life like no other singer. Why are they so low? Such an underrated band
You must be joking top ten at the very least, mike luke.
The Script is an Irish pop rock band formed in 2001. The band comprises keyboardist and lead vocalist Danny O'Donoghue, guitarist and vocalist Mark Sheehan and drummer Glen Power. The Script is an inspirational band. They're songs always have a special meaning to them and many fans can reakte to them in some situation of their life. You can go to their music for support, inspiration, motivation or when you just need to relax. But they are more than just great musicians. They're great people too. Even after 10 years, they're still down to earth people and still care about their fans.
The script are amazing! I think they should really be up there with all the rest o' the epicest bands. I'm not sure why they want me to spell everything incorrectly. Every time I put an ' they say it's better quality. I don't know what's happening there. Awkward.
Embarrassed to say, but I actually just recently learned about The Script. I think they'd pretty awesome. And they are actually the reason I started listening to Indie again. Except for Modest Mouse, I never get tired of them
The Script is the best band ever! Danny and Mark have so good voices. If you could see me now, the man who can't be moved, hall of fame and six degrees of separation is my top 4.
A lot of these bands are not indie, and the ones who are aren't all that great (Libertines, Wombats etc), Bloc Party are the second most innovative band on this list (behind Radiohead who aren't indie) and every album, they change their sound, and perfect the sound they have evolved into.
Some bands maintain the same sounds for years, until its own fans get kind of tired. BP evolves in every new album, but still keeps the same original charm. Silent Alarm was, indisputably, their jump to the top, but A Weekend in the City, and Four had amazing songs indeed.
Let's see which treasures "Hymns" will bring to BP's audience.
Bloc Party has the most innovative sound of all these groups. Not one of their three studio albums sounds the same. And they feel good music, whenever I have a bad day just turn on Bloc Party problems solved!
I must say that there isn't a bloc party song that I hate, they are just amazing. There songs has awesome drum and the singer is amazing, they are truly one of the best bands out there, indie or not
Franz Ferdinand are a Scottish rock band, formed in 2002 and based in Glasgow. The band's original lineup was composed of Alex Kapranos, Nick McCarthy, Bob Hardy, and Paul Thomson. Their music is uniquely Awesome. They don't sound like most of the bands out there, which is why I could Never get bored listening to all of their songs - be it b-sides or covers. They have the best guitar riffs, drums, Kapranos' voice, back-ups etc that make a great band.
On top of that, their live performances are splendid! Which is the reason I fall in love with them in the 1st place. You could never tell the difference from their recorded ones!
The most intelligent and fascinating lyrics I've ever heard. The most beautiful voice. The most energizing concerts I've ever seen. Too many "the most" for one band, but they DO deserve it. In my list they are on the first place.
So many catchy songs. Their amazing riffing and general humour has been maintainted throughout each and every album. My favourite band.
One of the Best concerts I've ever seen. Kapranos is a stage animal! They deserve to be at top 10
BEST BAND EVER! The Wombats is all the music I need in my life they have everything! They are by far the best for countless reasons their singing tones, their amazing lyrics etc etc! God I can't do them justice, just go listen to them, you won't be disappointed! THE WOMBATS SHOULD BE NUMBER 1!
The song are up lifting with lyrics that never fail to make me smile. I have only just started listening to them and I'm happy I have found this band as they are my Favourite
Their ability to have some of the most cheerful and upbeat songs, ever, as a facade to their more deeper and darker understanding of life. That is truly one of a kind.
I am from South Africa, heard the WOMBATS! On a friends phone and now I am addicted they are seriously awesome. Would be awesome to see them Live!
Not that great and struggled clearly to follow up the Album they are known for "Costello Music", they remind me of a band that gigged for a long time until gathering enough material to go large, make some Wonga and stay home for the rest of their lives till the money runs dry and then come back with a poor album that stays in the charts for a couple of weeks before fading out so far you wont even find it on thepiratebay. how on earth are they on page one? A band like Elbow knox the sox of this bunch.
Immense band! Totally under appreciated by people these days! The Fratellis have always been one of my favorite bands, and I've been listening to them for years! Real toe-tapping tunes- seriously!
Gotta love The Fratellis. Costello Music is just pure awesomeness. I'd love to see them live.
One of the few bands of which I like almost all of their songs, as opposed to just a couple, which is the norm for me. Costello Music was their favourite album of mine :) 9/10
Kasabian are an English rock band formed in Leicester in 1997. The band's original members consisted of vocalist Tom Meighan, guitarist and vocalist Sergio Pizzorno, guitarist Chris Karloff, and bassist Chris Edwards. "Underdog", "Fire", "Club Foot" and "Days Are Forgotten" are simply amazing tunes. From the brilliant riffs down to the rocking violins and cellos - this band has it all. Their music spans through a lot of different genres and I personally like their experimenting. The band, as said by Segre, isn't an indie rock band (and dislike being named as such) so I think they probably shouldn't be listed here
Kasabian Is simply the best. Re-Wired is outta this world. Not to mention every single album they have put out has been a perfect 10/10. Club Foot, Shoot the Runner, Empire, Underdog, Fire, Take Aim, Fast Fuse, Thick as Thieves, Switchblade Smiles, Days are forgotten... They are just the best band out there. Period.
KASABIAN IS AMAZING :O
Why the hell would you put a band like kasabian on 15?
If anyone out there has even a bit of music sense they would vote for kasabian
Their music is so upbeat and awesome
Every song is amazing
I just don't get what is wrong with you people
No one can put on a better show than kasabian, they are literally the best live sounding band you can find. the crowd participation is always mental and their songs are just perfect! should be number 1 however I do love oasis and muse too
The Kooks are an English rock band formed in 2004 in Brighton. The band currently consists of Luke Pritchard, Hugh Harris, Alexis Nunez, and Peter Denton. The original bassist was Max Rafferty, and the founding drummer was Paul Garred. Never recorded a bad song. Inside In/Inside Out was a brilliant start and they only got better with Konk. Sway and See The Sun have to be two of the greatest songs of all time. Third album may not be as stand-out as the first two but if you don't compare them, it's still a good album. How on Earth are bands like The Script ahead of them!?
This band is the definition of indie. Perfect blend between electric and acoustic material. Just listen to "Naive" and "She moves in her own way" and you'll know what I mean. Should definitely be closer to the number 1 spot.
Such a good band! I love their music and I hope they will make more albums! I really love there B-side to! And there covers, I love everything of them, they are the first indie band I've ever heard and one of the best!
The are such an amazing band! The are incredible! Nothing else I can say. The really should be on the top of this list.
I LOVE them. I discovered them by accident, but it was the best accident I ever had. Just saying.
I've been listening to the maccabees for the last 2 years now, I think they are the best of the best british indie bands ever. All I want is for them to bring out a new album!
First learned of them when I watched "Angus Thongs and Perfect Snogging" about 5 years back, and I haven't stopped listening since.
Just orgasmic music! They make my life! This music, words, faces, looks can make you crazy! They are best!
Well little comets is better than those bands but the maccabees is the second best band
Seen them four times, pure class. They are completely and smokers outside the hospital doors seriously needs to be recognised!
Saw them live two months ago and it was brilliant! The band deserves a better place, at least one in the top ten!
The greatness of this band as a whole is ridiculously far from being acknowledged enough. Lyrics are deep and meaningful, rhythm is flawless, their live performances are unforgettable and Mr. Smith has a voice and a glance that would resuscitate the dead. Number ONE on my list! 💕
Saw them live for my 18th birthday. Probably one of the best live bands I've EVER seen. been obsessed ever since. like seriously :( cried when their act finished so yeah should be waaay higher up /:
Muse are an English alternative rock band from Teignmouth, Devon, formed in 1994. The members are Matt Bellamy (lead vocal, lead guitar, piano, keyboard), Dom Howard (drums, percussion) and Chris Wolstenholme (bass, backing vocals). They've won several awards including 5 MTV Awards, 8 NME Awards, 2 ...read more. Am I not right In saying Muse are truly the most talented band In the world? May not be the best to some, but you can't get more pure talent then you can In Muse! I dunno why people don't like Muse as much with there new stuff! They're still amazing. Muse through and through! They're still amazing yeah they have the old amazing classics: Falling down, muscle museum, blackout but still... Explorers! That Is a great song
There are many great bands in this list... But MUSE not in top 10?! Seriously?! For example how can be the kooks or razorlight be better? Muse has got this unique style and matt's voice is just incredible! One of the best Live-Bands! You have to vote for them and show that the majority of people in this world have good music taste!
Muse are brilliant, so unique and so different from other bands. Why is this at 25? Vote muse fans! We want this near the top, not down here! They're so good, time is running out, butterflies and hurricanes, bliss, uprising, PLUG IN BABY that have the best guitar riff everr, just vote as MUSE ARE THE BEST BAND EVER.
Muse isn't in the Top Ten? What is this bull! They have experimented with so many genres they have a song for everyone and Matt is probably the most talented person on the planet. Honestly go listen to them they're fantastic!
The Libertines... Where can I start? Every single song has an individual spark that just makes all their albums so unique and amazing to listen to. Carl and Pete together are just ace and their musical skill combined with deep, meaningful lyrics makes brilliant songs that are memorable and legendary. The Libs are ACE!
There amazing. All their songs are sick. I only wish I was able to see them live before they split up. Maybe one day they'll have a reunion gig. Here's to hoping. But, yeah, just wanted to say what a stunning band they are. Love them. So much. Wish they never split. It's a hard *knock* life.
Why are these so low down? Its outragoeus! They are the band that brought British indie back, without them, most of the bands on this list would not even be here! They are British Indie, Pete and Carl are the best rockers and the music they make is so British and amazing, they should be number 1 easily!
Well done songs. Great sound. Lyrics are poetic, fun, witty. Rhythm section is mint with Gary and John and Pete and Carl have fun playing off each other. Wish I'd seen them live. When I first heard them here in the US I got excited about music again.