Discover Our Selection of Indie Rock Vinyl Records and LPs

Indie rock music is a subgenre of rock music that generally refers to the rock n’ roll music that independent record labels release. Despite this overarching characteristic, there are some indie rock bands that have recorded for large record labels, while maintaining a similar aesthetic to that of independently recorded indie rock sounds. Indie rock is not to be confused with alternative rock, which can be a subgenre at times when recorded under an independent label.

The History of Indie Rock

Indie rock’s roots can be traced back to the late 1970s when it found early success in the UK. At the time, the English pop-punk band the Buzzcocks rose in popularity and has since been credited with inspiring a new wave of independent labels in the UK and even the US. With the spread of indie labels to the US, many of these labels discovered well-known alternative rock artists like Nirvana, Soundgarden, and The Yeah Yeah Yeahs.

Characteristics of Indie Rock Music

Indie rock can be recognized by several characteristics. First, it traditionally possesses a DIY aesthetic. Forget studio recording and production, indie rock tends to have a uniquely at-home recording feel to it. Not only that but while artists from large studios commonly have songs written and pitched to them, indie rock bands typically create all of their music themselves. Perhaps the most pervasive characteristic of indie rock music is its emphasis on authenticity and virtuosity. Think of the sincere performances that Nirvana used to put on.

Discover our selection of indie rock vinyl records and LPs at Play De Record. Shop online or visit us in-store to sift through our crates and discover some new sounds.