Throughout 2024, we’ll be sharing 10 cool alternative tracks from each year between 1990 and 2010. It’s our little way of imagining what Max FM would have sounded like if, you know, we existed back then.
Here’s how 1990 might have sounded:
- “Epic” – Faith No More (1990): Faith No More’s “Epic” set the alternative rock scene ablaze in 1990. Mike Patton’s versatile vocals and the track’s genre-defying fusion of rock, funk, and metal made it an instant classic.
- “Release It” – The Time (1990): The Time’s “Release It” brings a funky edge to ’90s alternative. Released in 1990, its infectious groove and charismatic energy showcase a unique blend of genres in the evolving alternative scene.
- “Joey” – Concrete Blonde (1990): Concrete Blonde’s “Joey” is a poignant alternative rock ballad that hit the scene in 1990. Johnette Napolitano’s emotive vocals and the song’s raw lyricism define its enduring appeal.
- “Man in the Box” – Alice in Chains (1990): Alice in Chains’ “Man in the Box” is a grunge-metal powerhouse that dominated 1990. Layne Staley’s powerful vocals and Jerry Cantrell’s guitar wizardry create a brooding anthem.
- “Been Caught Stealing” – Jane’s Addiction (1990): Jane’s Addiction’s “Been Caught Stealing” is a funky alternative rock track from 1990. Perry Farrell’s playful vocals and the unconventional sound capture the rebellious spirit of the era.
- “Enjoy the Silence” – Depeche Mode (1990): Depeche Mode’s synth-infused “Enjoy the Silence” is an alternative masterpiece from 1990. Dave Gahan’s haunting vocals and the electronic arrangement make it an iconic track of the genre.
- “Rusty Cage” – Soundgarden (1990): Soundgarden’s “Rusty Cage” is a sonic assault that epitomizes the raw power of grunge. Chris Cornell’s vocals and Kim Thayil’s guitar work create an intense, unrelenting alternative rock experience.
- “Kool Thing” – Sonic Youth (1990): Sonic Youth’s “Kool Thing” is an alternative rock gem from 1990, featuring Kim Gordon’s cool vocals and a rebellious attitude that resonated with the evolving alternative scene.
- “Thieves” – Ministry (1990): Ministry’s “Thieves” unleashed industrial mayhem in 1990. Al Jourgensen’s aggressive vocals and the track’s heavy, electronic sound marked a bold departure within the alternative genre.
- “More” – The Sisters of Mercy (1990): The Sisters of Mercy’s “More” is a brooding alternative rock track that emerged in 1990. Andrew Eldritch’s haunting vocals and the dark, atmospheric instrumentation create a mesmerizing sonic experience.
