The 1980s was a decade that saw the rise of alternative rock, punk, and new wave, and with it, a new wave of young musicians who would go on to shape the music industry. Known as the Brat Pack, these bands brought a raw energy, rebellious attitude, and a DIY ethos to the forefront, challenging the status quo and redefining what it meant to be a rock band. In this article, we’ll explore the top 10 most influential 80’s bands that changed the game.
1. The Cure
With their dark, introspective sound and Robert Smith’s iconic, eyeliner-adorned visage, The Cure became one of the most beloved and enduring bands of the decade. Their 1985 album, “The Head on the Door,” solidified their status as a force to be reckoned with, and singles like “In Between Days” and “Just Like Heaven” remain some of the most beloved of the era.
2. R.E.M.
R.E.M. was the epitome of the Brat Pack, blending jangly guitars, haunting vocals, and cryptic lyrics to create a sound that was both experimental and accessible. Their 1983 debut album, “Murmur,” marked a new era in indie rock, and albums like “Reckoning” (1984) and “Document” (1987) cemented their status as one of the most influential bands of the decade.
3. The Smiths
With their witty, literate lyrics and lush, jangly melodies, The Smiths captured the hearts of indie rock fans worldwide. Led by the enigmatic Morrissey, their 1984 debut album, “The Smiths,” introduced the world to their unique blend of British invasion-era pop and post-punk introspection.
4. The Pixies
The Pixies were the ultimate Brat Pack rebels, blending surf rock, punk, and indie sensibilities to create a sound that was both raw and sophisticated. Their 1988 album, “Surfer Rosa,” is still considered one of the greatest debut albums of all time, and songs like “Debaser” and “Gigantic” remain fan favorites.
5. Hüsker Dü
Formed in the early 1980s, Hüsker Dü was a punk-infused indie rock band known for their intense live performances and catchy, melodic songs. Their 1984 album, “Zen Arcade,” is considered one of the greatest punk albums of all time, and their influence can be heard in bands like Nirvana and Green Day.
6. The Replacements
The Replacements were the Brat Pack’s resident troublemakers, known for their raucous live shows and irreverent attitude. Their 1985 album, “Tim,” is a classic of the era, with songs like “Bastards of Young” and “Left of the Dial” showcasing their raw energy and wit.
7. Echo & the Bunnymen
With their sweeping, anthemic sound and Ian McCulloch’s soaring vocals, Echo & the Bunnymen were the perfect combination of post-punk and indie rock. Their 1984 album, “Ocean Rain,” is a masterpiece of the era, with songs like “The Killing Moon” and “Seven Seas” remaining fan favorites.
8. The Jesus and Mary Chain
The Jesus and Mary Chain were the Brat Pack’s resident noise merchants, known for their wall of sound approach and dark, brooding lyrics. Their 1985 album, “Psychocandy,” is a landmark of the era, with songs like “Just Like Honey” and “Some Candy Talking” showcasing their unique sound.
9. Sonic Youth
Sonic Youth was the Brat Pack’s resident avant-garde squad, known for their experimental sound and intense live performances. Their 1986 album, “Evol,” is a classic of the era, with songs like “Stereo Sanctity” and “Teen Age Riot” showcasing their innovative approach to music.
10. Wire
Wire was the Brat Pack’s resident art rockers, known for their minimalist approach and witty, literate lyrics. Their 1988 album, “Change Becomes Us,” is a masterclass in indie rock, with songs like “Come Back” and “Overstood” showcasing their unique sound.
In conclusion, the Brat Pack of music was a collection of talented, innovative, and influential bands that changed the game in the 1980s. From The Cure to Wire, these bands pushed the boundaries of rock music, introducing new sounds, styles, and attitudes that would go on to shape the music industry for decades to come.
FAQs:
Q: What is the Brat Pack of music?
A: The Brat Pack of music refers to a group of influential bands that emerged in the 1980s, characterized by their alternative rock, punk, and new wave sounds.
Q: What are some notable Brat Pack bands?
A: Some notable Brat Pack bands include The Cure, R.E.M., The Smiths, The Pixies, Hüsker Dü, The Replacements, Echo & the Bunnymen, The Jesus and Mary Chain, Sonic Youth, and Wire.
Q: What was the impact of the Brat Pack on the music industry?
A: The Brat Pack had a significant impact on the music industry, introducing new sounds, styles, and attitudes that challenged the status quo and redefined what it meant to be a rock band. They also paved the way for future generations of indie rock bands and helped to shape the music industry for decades to come.
Q: Are the Brat Pack bands still active today?
A: While some Brat Pack bands have disbanded, others have continued to release music and tour over the years. For example, The Cure and R.E.M. are still active today, with The Cure releasing their 14th studio album in 2019.
Q: What is the legacy of the Brat Pack?
A: The Brat Pack’s legacy is that of innovation, experimentation, and creativity. They pushed the boundaries of rock music, introducing new sounds, styles, and attitudes that have continued to influence the music industry to this day.
