21 Jammin’ Bands Like R.E.M. That You Should Hear

R.E.M. is widely recognized as one of the most influential bands in alternative rock, known for their jangly guitar sound, introspective lyrics, and ability to blend mainstream appeal with artistic integrity. Their unique style has inspired countless other bands, many of which share R.E.M.’s penchant for melodic hooks, thoughtful songwriting, and genre-defying music.

This article explores bands that carry the torch of R.E.M.’s legacy, offering a similar blend of alternative rock, post-punk, and indie sensibilities.

Whether you’re a longtime R.E.M. fan or new to their sound, these bands capture the spirit of what makes R.E.M. so enduringly popular.

21 Most Incredible Bands Similar to R.E.M. to Add to Your Playlist

These bands share a connection with R.E.M. in terms of their impact on alternative and indie rock, blending melodic elements with introspective and often socially conscious lyrics.

Here’s a list of 21 bands similar to R.E.M., known for their alternative rock sound, melodic sensibilities, and thoughtful lyrics:

#1 The Smiths

The Smiths were a seminal British rock band formed in Manchester in 1982 by vocalist Morrissey and guitarist Johnny Marr. Known for their jangly guitar sound, introspective lyrics, and distinctive vocal style, The Smiths became one of the most influential bands of the 1980s. Their music, often characterized by its blend of melancholy and wit, resonated with a generation of disaffected youth. Albums like The Queen Is Dead and Meat Is Murder are considered classics, featuring hits such as “There Is a Light That Never Goes Out” and “How Soon Is Now?”.

Despite their relatively short career, disbanding in 1987, The Smiths left a lasting legacy on the alternative rock scene. Their influence can be heard in countless bands that followed, and they remain a touchstone for fans of thoughtful, melodic rock music.

#2 The Cure

The Cure is an English rock band formed in Crawley in 1978, led by vocalist and guitarist Robert Smith. Known for their distinctive sound, which blends post-punk, gothic rock, and pop, The Cure quickly gained a reputation for their moody and atmospheric music. Their early albums, such as Seventeen Seconds and Faith, established them as pioneers of the goth genre, while later albums like The Head on the Door and Disintegration brought them mainstream success with hits like “Close to Me” and “Lovesong.”

The Cure’s ability to combine dark, introspective lyrics with catchy melodies has made them one of the most enduring and influential bands in alternative rock. Robert Smith’s unique voice and iconic look have become synonymous with the band’s identity, and they continue to tour and release new music, maintaining a dedicated global fanbase.

#3 U2

U2 is an Irish rock band formed in Dublin in 1976, consisting of Bono (vocals), The Edge (guitar), Adam Clayton (bass), and Larry Mullen Jr. (drums). U2 is known for their anthemic sound, politically charged lyrics, and ambitious live performances. Their early albums, such as Boy and War, established them as a leading force in post-punk, but it was their 1987 album The Joshua Tree that catapulted them to global superstardom. The album featured hits like “With or Without You” and “I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For,” and it remains one of the best-selling albums of all time.

U2’s music often explores themes of faith, politics, and social justice, and they have been involved in numerous humanitarian efforts. The band’s ability to evolve their sound over the decades has kept them relevant, and they are considered one of the greatest rock bands in history.

#4 Talking Heads

Talking Heads were an American rock band formed in New York City in 1975, known for their innovative blend of punk, art rock, funk, and world music. The band was led by David Byrne (vocals, guitar), with Tina Weymouth (bass), Chris Frantz (drums), and Jerry Harrison (keyboards, guitar) completing the lineup. Talking Heads were one of the pioneering bands of the New Wave movement, with albums like Fear of Music and Remain in Light showcasing their eclectic style and intellectual approach to songwriting.

Hits like “Psycho Killer,” “Once in a Lifetime,” and “Burning Down the House” helped solidify their reputation as one of the most creative and influential bands of their time. Known for their visually striking music videos and innovative use of technology in their music, Talking Heads have left an indelible mark on rock music and continue to be celebrated for their contributions to the genre.

#5 The Replacements

The Replacements were an American rock band formed in Minneapolis, Minnesota, in 1979 by Paul Westerberg (vocals, guitar), Bob Stinson (guitar), Tommy Stinson (bass), and Chris Mars (drums). Known for their raw, energetic sound and rebellious attitude, The Replacements became one of the defining bands of the 1980s alternative rock scene. Their early albums, such as Let It Be and Tim, are considered classics, featuring a mix of punk rock intensity and melodic songwriting.

Despite their chaotic live performances and frequent internal conflicts, The Replacements earned a devoted following and critical acclaim. Paul Westerberg’s introspective lyrics and the band’s ability to blend punk with more melodic elements influenced a wide range of subsequent artists. Though they disbanded in 1991, The Replacements’ legacy endures, and they are often cited as a key influence on the development of alternative rock.

#6 The Church

The Church is an Australian rock band formed in Sydney in 1980, known for their atmospheric sound and evocative lyrics. The band’s lineup has changed over the years, but it was originally founded by Steve Kilbey (vocals, bass), Peter Koppes (guitar), and Marty Willson-Piper (guitar). The Church gained international recognition with their 1988 album Starfish, which featured the hit single “Under the Milky Way.” Their music is characterized by lush, layered guitar work, and Kilbey’s enigmatic lyrics, which often explore themes of mysticism and existentialism.

Over the decades, The Church has released numerous albums, maintaining a loyal fanbase and critical acclaim. Their ability to blend jangly guitar pop with more expansive, psychedelic elements has made them a unique presence in the alternative rock landscape, and they continue to be a significant influence on the genre.

#7 Echo & the Bunnymen

Echo & the Bunnymen is a British rock band formed in Liverpool in 1978, known for their moody, atmospheric sound and poetic lyrics. The original lineup consisted of Ian McCulloch (vocals), Will Sergeant (guitar), Les Pattinson (bass), and Pete de Freitas (drums). The band gained prominence in the early 1980s with albums like Crocodiles and Heaven Up Here, which were characterized by their dark, post-punk sound. Their 1984 album Ocean Rain is often regarded as their masterpiece, featuring the iconic single “The Killing Moon.”

Echo & the Bunnymen’s music blends elements of post-punk, psychedelia, and new wave, creating a distinctive and influential sound that has left a lasting impact on alternative rock. Despite various lineup changes and periods of inactivity, the band continues to tour and release new music, maintaining a dedicated following.

#8 The Psychedelic Furs

The Psychedelic Furs are a British rock band formed in London in 1977, known for their blend of post-punk, new wave, and art rock. The band was founded by brothers Richard Butler (vocals) and Tim Butler (bass), with their sound characterized by Richard’s distinctive voice and the band’s rich, atmospheric arrangements. The Psychedelic Furs gained widespread recognition with their 1981 album Talk Talk Talk, which featured the original version of “Pretty in Pink,” later re-recorded for the John Hughes film of the same name.

Throughout the 1980s, the band released a series of successful albums, including Forever Now and Mirror Moves, which helped solidify their status as one of the leading bands of the new wave movement. The Psychedelic Furs’ ability to blend introspective lyrics with lush, melodic music has made them a lasting influence on alternative rock.

#9 The B-52’s

The B-52’s are an American new wave band formed in Athens, Georgia, in 1976, known for their quirky, danceable sound and eclectic style. The original lineup included Fred Schneider (vocals), Kate Pierson (vocals, keyboards), Cindy Wilson (vocals), Ricky Wilson (guitar), and Keith Strickland (drums). The band’s self-titled debut album, released in 1979, featured the hit “Rock Lobster,” which quickly established them as a unique presence in the music world. Their music blends surf rock, punk, and dance-pop, characterized by playful lyrics and energetic performances.

The B-52’s achieved mainstream success with their 1989 album Cosmic Thing, which included hits like “Love Shack” and “Roam.” The band’s infectious energy, colorful image, and ability to craft memorable pop songs have made them one of the most beloved bands in alternative music. They continue to tour and perform, bringing their joyful, party-ready sound to new generations of fans.

#10 The Pixies

The Pixies are an American alternative rock band formed in Boston, Massachusetts, in 1986, known for their innovative blend of punk, surf rock, and indie rock. The band’s original lineup included Black Francis (vocals, guitar), Joey Santiago (guitar), Kim Deal (bass, vocals), and David Lovering (drums). The Pixies gained a cult following with their debut album Surfer Rosa (1988) and their follow-up Doolittle (1989), which included iconic tracks like “Debaser,” “Here Comes Your Man,” and “Monkey Gone to Heaven.”

The band’s music is characterized by its dynamic “loud-quiet-loud” structure, surreal lyrics, and distinctive vocal interplay between Francis and Deal. Although they disbanded in 1993, the Pixies reunited in 2004 and have continued to tour and release new music. Their influence on the alternative rock scene is profound, with many bands citing them as a key inspiration, including Nirvana and Radiohead.

#11 Sonic Youth

Sonic Youth was an American rock band formed in New York City in 1981, known for their experimental approach to music and their pioneering role in the alternative rock movement. The band’s lineup included Thurston Moore (vocals, guitar), Kim Gordon (bass, vocals), Lee Ranaldo (guitar, vocals), and Steve Shelley (drums). Sonic Youth gained a reputation for their use of unconventional guitar tunings, feedback, and noise, which helped to define their unique sound. Albums like Daydream Nation (1988) and Goo (1990) are considered milestones in alternative rock, featuring tracks like “Teen Age Riot” and “Kool Thing.”

Sonic Youth’s influence extends beyond music, as they were instrumental in shaping the indie rock scene of the 1980s and 1990s. Their commitment to artistic experimentation and their ability to merge avant-garde concepts with accessible rock music have made them a revered and influential band. Despite disbanding in 2011, Sonic Youth’s legacy continues to resonate in the world of alternative and experimental music.

#12 The Cranberries

The Cranberries were an Irish rock band formed in Limerick in 1989, known for their blend of alternative rock, post-punk, and Celtic influences. The band’s lineup included Dolores O’Riordan (vocals, guitar), Noel Hogan (guitar), Mike Hogan (bass), and Fergal Lawler (drums). The Cranberries achieved international fame with their debut album Everybody Else Is Doing It, So Why Can’t We? (1993), which featured the hit singles “Linger” and “Dreams.” Their follow-up album No Need to Argue (1994) included the powerful anti-war anthem “Zombie,” which became one of their most iconic songs.

Dolores O’Riordan’s distinctive voice, characterized by its emotional intensity and unique timbre, became the hallmark of the band’s sound. The Cranberries continued to release successful albums throughout the 1990s and 2000s, earning a dedicated global fanbase. Despite O’Riordan’s untimely death in 2018, The Cranberries’ music remains a lasting influence on alternative rock, and their songs continue to resonate with audiences worldwide.

#13 Toad the Wet Sprocket

Toad the Wet Sprocket is an American alternative rock band formed in Santa Barbara, California, in 1986. The band’s lineup includes Glen Phillips (vocals, guitar), Todd Nichols (guitar), Dean Dinning (bass), and Randy Guss (drums). Toad the Wet Sprocket achieved success in the early 1990s with their albums Fear (1991) and Dulcinea (1994), which produced hits like “All I Want,” “Walk on the Ocean,” and “Fall Down.” Their music is characterized by its melodic sensibility, introspective lyrics, and harmonious vocals, making them a staple of the 1990s alternative rock scene.

The band’s ability to craft thoughtful, emotionally resonant songs helped them build a loyal following, and they continue to be celebrated for their contributions to the genre. After disbanding in 1998, Toad the Wet Sprocket reunited in 2006 and have since continued to tour and release new music, maintaining their status as a beloved alternative rock band.

#14 10,000 Maniacs

10,000 Maniacs is an American alternative rock band formed in Jamestown, New York, in 1981. The band’s lineup originally included Natalie Merchant (vocals), Robert Buck (guitar), Steve Gustafson (bass), Dennis Drew (keyboards), and Jerome Augustyniak (drums). 10,000 Maniacs gained popularity in the mid-1980s with their albums The Wishing Chair (1985) and In My Tribe (1987), the latter of which featured socially conscious songs like “What’s the Matter Here?” and “Like the Weather.” Their music combines folk rock, jangle pop, and alternative elements, with Merchant’s poetic lyrics and distinct voice at the forefront.

The band’s 1992 album Our Time in Eden further solidified their success, featuring hits like “These Are Days.” After Merchant left the band in 1993 to pursue a solo career, 10,000 Maniacs continued with new vocalists and have maintained a presence in the alternative rock scene. Their thoughtful, socially aware lyrics and melodic sound have left a lasting impact on the genre.

#15 Crowded House

Crowded House is a rock band formed in Melbourne, Australia, in 1985 by New Zealander Neil Finn (vocals, guitar), along with Australians Paul Hester (drums) and Nick Seymour (bass). The band quickly gained international recognition with their self-titled debut album in 1986, featuring hit singles like “Don’t Dream It’s Over” and “Something So Strong.” Their music is characterized by melodic pop-rock, heartfelt lyrics, and Finn’s distinctive voice, blending elements of rock, folk, and new wave.

Crowded House continued their success with albums like Temple of Low Men and Woodface, earning a loyal fanbase worldwide. Despite disbanding in 1996, the band reunited in 2006 and has since continued to tour and release new music. Their ability to craft timeless, emotionally resonant songs has made them a beloved band in the alternative rock genre.

#16 Gin Blossoms

Gin Blossoms are an American rock band formed in Tempe, Arizona, in 1987, known for their jangly guitar sound and catchy melodies. The band’s lineup includes Robin Wilson (vocals), Jesse Valenzuela (guitar), Scott Johnson (guitar), Bill Leen (bass), and Phillip Rhodes (drums). Gin Blossoms achieved mainstream success in the early 1990s with their album New Miserable Experience (1992), which included hit singles like “Hey Jealousy,” “Found Out About You,” and “Allison Road.” Their music, a blend of power pop and alternative rock, resonated with audiences during the post-grunge era.

The band’s straightforward, hook-laden sound helped them gain a significant following, and they became one of the defining bands of 1990s rock radio. Despite lineup changes and a brief breakup, Gin Blossoms reunited in 2002 and continue to tour and record, maintaining their status as a favorite among fans of melodic rock.

#17 The Lemonheads

The Lemonheads are an American alternative rock band formed in Boston, Massachusetts, in 1986, led by singer-songwriter Evan Dando. The band’s music is known for its melodic sensibility, blending punk, indie rock, and folk influences. The Lemonheads gained popularity in the early 1990s with their album It’s a Shame About Ray (1992), which featured the hit single “Mrs. Robinson,” a cover of the Simon & Garfunkel classic. The album also included fan-favorites like “It’s a Shame About Ray” and “Alison’s Starting to Happen.”

Evan Dando’s laid-back, charismatic style and the band’s knack for crafting catchy, introspective songs made them a staple of the alternative rock scene. Although the band’s lineup has changed frequently over the years, The Lemonheads have continued to tour and release music, maintaining a loyal following and influencing a new generation of indie rock artists.

#18 Violent Femmes

Violent Femmes are an American alternative rock band formed in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, in 1980. The band’s original lineup included Gordon Gano (vocals, guitar), Brian Ritchie (bass), and Victor DeLorenzo (drums). Violent Femmes are known for their acoustic punk sound, blending folk, rock, and punk influences with Gano’s distinctive, angst-ridden lyrics. Their self-titled debut album, released in 1983, became a cult classic, featuring songs like “Blister in the Sun,” “Kiss Off,” and “Add It Up,” which captured the angst and rebellion of youth.

Despite their unconventional sound, Violent Femmes gained a devoted following and became one of the most influential bands in the alternative rock scene. The band has continued to tour and release music, with their raw, unfiltered approach to songwriting and performance remaining a hallmark of their enduring appeal.

#19 XTC

XTC was an English rock band formed in Swindon in 1972, known for their eclectic blend of new wave, pop, and rock influences. The band was led by Andy Partridge (vocals, guitar) and Colin Moulding (bass, vocals), with their music characterized by its clever, often satirical lyrics and inventive arrangements. XTC gained recognition with albums like Drums and Wires (1979) and Black Sea (1980), featuring hits like “Making Plans for Nigel” and “Generals and Majors.” Their later work, including the critically acclaimed Skylarking (1986) and Oranges & Lemons (1989), saw the band exploring more complex and ambitious musical territories.

Despite their success, XTC stopped touring in 1982 due to Partridge’s stage fright, focusing instead on studio work. The band’s influence on alternative rock and power pop is significant, with their intelligent songwriting and willingness to experiment earning them a lasting legacy in music.

#20 The Housemartins

The Housemartins were a British indie pop band formed in Hull in 1983, known for their jangly guitar sound, socially conscious lyrics, and harmonized vocals. The band’s lineup included Paul Heaton (vocals), Stan Cullimore (guitar), Norman Cook (bass, who later became famous as Fatboy Slim), and Hugh Whitaker (drums). The Housemartins gained popularity with their 1986 debut album London 0 Hull 4, featuring hit singles like “Happy Hour” and “Think for a Minute.” Their music combined elements of indie pop, soul, and a touch of punk, with lyrics often addressing political and social issues.

The band’s second album, The People Who Grinned Themselves to Death (1987), continued their success, but The Housemartins disbanded shortly after its release. Despite their brief career, the band’s influence on the indie pop scene was significant, and their members went on to find success in other musical projects, including The Beautiful South and Fatboy Slim.

#21 They Might Be Giants

They Might Be Giants (TMBG) is an American alternative rock band formed in Brooklyn, New York, in 1982 by John Flansburgh (vocals, guitar) and John Linnell (vocals, accordion, keyboards). TMBG is known for their quirky, eclectic sound, blending elements of rock, pop, and alternative with a distinct sense of humor and whimsy. The band gained a cult following with their early albums They Might Be Giants (1986) and Lincoln (1988), featuring tracks like “Don’t Let’s Start” and “Ana Ng.”

They Might Be Giants achieved mainstream success with their 1990 album Flood, which included hits like “Birdhouse in Your Soul” and “Istanbul (Not Constantinople).” Known for their innovative use of technology, including the Dial-A-Song service, and their willingness to experiment with different musical styles, TMBG has maintained a devoted fanbase over the decades. They continue to tour and release music, remaining one of the most unique and enduring bands in alternative rock.

Frequently Asked Questions

What band is known for pioneering the “jangle pop” sound similar to R.E.M.?

The Smiths are known for pioneering the “jangle pop” sound, characterized by their use of chiming guitars and introspective lyrics, which is similar to the style of R.E.M.

Which band from the list had a major influence on the post-punk movement and shares a similar fanbase to R.E.M.?

Echo & the Bunnymen had a significant influence on the post-punk movement and share a similar fanbase to R.E.M. due to their atmospheric sound and poetic lyrics.

What band, like R.E.M., gained fame in the 1980s and is known for blending alternative rock with socially conscious lyrics?

10,000 Maniacs, like R.E.M., gained fame in the 1980s and are known for blending alternative rock with socially conscious lyrics, particularly through the voice of lead singer Natalie Merchant.

Which band from the list is known for their innovative approach to rock and quirky, eclectic sound, similar to R.E.M.’s experimental side?

They Might Be Giants are known for their innovative approach to rock and quirky, eclectic sound, which resonates with R.E.M.’s more experimental side.