10 Most Underrated 90s Indie Bands You Need To Listen To
1. Superchunk
Speaking of emo/punk troupe Superchunk (who formed in 1989), they’re certainly more widely known than many of the prior groups, but that doesn’t mean they’re adequately revered.
That’s particularly apparent when you consider their influential mid-‘90s output, which numerous fans and publications—as well as bassist/backing vocalist Laura Ballance—regard as their peak. Their third LP, 1993’s On the Mouth, not only welcomed drummer Jon Wurster but also found the band truly playing with unity and focus. (Ballance remarks: “I feel like it's our first album where we're an actual band, like we know the songs.”)
Immediate successors Foolish, Here’s Where the Strings Come In, Indoor Living, and Come Pick Me Up rounded out the era in classic fashion. Be it the odd rhythms of Silverleaf and Snowy Tears, the relatable heartbreak of Drive to Driveway, or the twangy melodiousness of You Can Always Count on Me (in the Worst Way), there are dozens of wonderful songs here.
Come Pick Me Up, in particular, is also notable for how producer Jim O’Rourke expanded Superchunk’s style (including adding strings and horns to the arrangements). That openness, alongside Ballance’s cover paintings, resulted in some truly seminal contributions to the decade’s indie scene.