10 Modern Must-Hear Alternative Artists

Shelbi Baker
May 10
6 min read

Are you craving new music that gives you 2000s alternative vibes? This week, we've hand-picked ten artists who really scratch that nostalgic itch despite having formed in the 2010s or later. So, hold on to those ripped jeans and black eyeliner, because these modern must-hears are certainly worth a listen!

10. CLIFFDIVER

Let's kick things off with the incredible CLIFFDIVER. This is a band that channels that nostalgic energy like no other. Their music frequently touches on the struggles of self-acceptance and aging. Their sound has been described as modern Midwest emo mixed with pop-punk and ska. The seven-member-strong group prominently features saxophone as a defining element alongside raw and emotional vocals. If you need a mental health pick-me-up, you should definitely check out their stuff. It might even change your perspective on life.

9. Alex Melton

Alex Melton is a South Carolina native solo artist who found recognition making Midwest emo-style transformations of radio pop hits. Of course, the real beauty of Melton's talent resides in his original songs. He truly is a one-man show, producing and playing all of his own music and performing his own vocals. Recently, he's embraced the descriptor 'Y'allternative' to describe his work, channeling his Southern roots in thoughtful, humanistic tracks. Currently, he's working on a full-length album, but has recently released a four-song EP titled Falling In Love Again. With seemingly limitless talent, Alex Melton is an absolute must-hear if you're a fan of Midwest emo, pop-punk, or even country music.

8. senses

The Los Angeles-based duo, senses, describes themselves as 'emo-friendly, punk-curious' in genre, and that pretty much hits the nail on the head. This is a group that pours explosive energy into everything they do and have a blast doing it. If you liked 2000s Paramore, you'll love senses. But don't compare too closely, this band's sound is wholly unique with a meaningful mission. The band's singer and guitarist, Madison Taylor, has spoken openly about how she wants to create an inclusive space for senses' fans, making the crowd a part of each show. This is a passionate band letting positivity lead the way in their art, and we think that's really cool! Give them a listen!

7. The Home Team

The Home Team is a four-person group based in Seattle, WA. They're a strong contender for sounding the most 2000s-like of the artists on this list despite not fully forming until 2015. The Home Team's sound is described as heavy pop, combining rock instrumentals and melodic vocals. The closest comparison sonically to The Home Team would likely be Marianas Trench, who were founded in 2001 or The Cab, who debuted in 2008. This is pretty remarkable, considering the band tries not to listen to similar-sounding artists on purpose to avoid rewriting the work of others. Their newest album, The Crucible of Life, touches on the ups and downs of life, love, and pursuing a music career. If you love 2000s vibes with a fresh outlook, you need to hear The Home Team!

6. Yours Truly

Sydney, Australia-based band, Yours Truly, are a hidden gem trailblazing the scene in modern alternative music. Classified as pop-punk, the trio debuted in 2017 with the EP, Too Late For Apologies. Since then, they've released two full-length studio albums, Self Care (2020) and TOXIC (2024). Yours Truly has been described as 'eclectic' for an alternative band, as it appears they aren't opposed to mixing any genre into their work. The band is known for blending rock, emo, pop, and even dance elements into their songs, creating an experience for just about anyone. Yours Truly most recently appeared on triple j Like A Version performing a cover of Charli XCX's hit, "Von Dutch". If you're looking for pop-punk with a little sparkle, hit up Your Truly's discography! There's something for everyone.

5. Alvvays

Alvvays is a Canadian indie band who brings all the vintage cards to the table. While more mellow than most of the artists on this list, we think they still fall under the category of alternative due to their classic rock sound. It's actually easy to imagine Alvvays debuted in the 70s if you've never heard them before. Contrary to popular belief, they debuted in 2011 with their most recent release having been in 2022. Melancholically contributing to the band's sound are the multiple hardships they faced while trying to finish that 2022 album, Blue Rev. Surviving through COVID border closures, a flooded basement, home theft, and the replacement of two band members, the album is truly a testament to the love of their craft. Despite the unfortunate string of events, they seem to have made the album even better. This band deserves all of your love.

4. Beartooth

Now, it's time for something a little heavier. Ohio-based metalcore band, Beartooth mixes vibrant melodies with noise-rock to create some of the most emotional and powerful music out there. Interestingly enough, Beartooth started as just one man, Caleb Shomo, who was already a member of the known band, Attack, Attack!. In the early days of the group's formation, Shomo recorded all of the instruments himself in the studio. Eventually, he was joined by a four-piece band, forming the group we have now. Beartooth's passionate style brings elements of metalcore, hard rock, post-hardcore, and pop-punk, making them the heaviest of the artists on this list. Regardless, their lyrics often touch on ideas of becoming a better person and escaping negative situations. If you're looking for talent with an aggressively inspiring vibrancy, check out Beartooth. You won't regret it.

3. Origami Angel

Origami Angel is a Washington DC-based emo, punk, and easycore duo that brings the idea of fifth-wave emo music to the forefront. The band cites artists like The Barenaked Ladies, Weezer, and even Lil Uzi Vert as inspiration for their work. The spectrum of rock Origami Angel produces is vast, spanning from borderline mainstream pop to almost metal. Their 2021 album, GAMI GANG, features some of their most experimental fusions (and song titles) really alluding to the notion that this band will do whatever they want. This is an endearing quality in a world where trends and clout dictate so much in the music realm. In a way, it harkens back to the 'XD random' culture of the 2000s, where emo bands would have absurdly long and unhinged names and song titles. We're living for it, honestly. Give them a listen!

2. NOAHFINNCE

British singer-songwriter and YouTuber, NOAHFINNCE, is a refreshing light in the modern alternative scene. Like many artists, NOAHFINNCE rose to fame posting covers on YouTube and Instagram. However, his personal journey is what captivated the internet. NOAHFINNCE is an openly transgender man and LGBTQ+ icon for alternative music. He's also an advocate for mental health awareness and shares his story of living with ADHD online. These individual elements make up the man himself and reflect strongly in his music, which is great, by the way. NOAHFINNCE's sound can be best described as pop-punk or pop-rock with lyrics touching on the reality behind his life. We love NOAHFINNCE because he creates a relatable space for LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent folks in the indie scene. Check out his newest album, Growing Up On The Internet.

1. Bears In Trees

Finally, we've reached our final artist on this list, self-proclaimed 'dirtbag boyband', Bears In Trees. The South London group's music is described as indie, emo, and folk rock, but they are so much more. They often take on the appearance of a mainstream pop boyband, but with a vastly dissonant sound from that stereotype. If the lyrical passion of Enter Shikari and the creativity of OK Go combined with just a sprinkle of Fleet Foxes in the mix, it would create Bears In Trees. (And that's the EASIEST way to describe them.) This is a band that's telling unique, relatable stories in an unapologetic, color-outside-the-lines sort of way, and it's something you need to experience to understand. If you like the sound of artists like Hozier or Twenty One Pilots, you'll love Bears In Trees!

So, what do you think? Have you heard of these alternative bands before? Do you have any favorite songs? Feel free to let us know on any of our socials below!

Special thanks to Willow and Pepper for their input in helping to write this article.

Written By *Shelbi Baker