Sebadoh "Ocean" (1996) & Folk Implosion "Natural One" (1995)

If some little brat asks you what the 90's was like, point that little brat toward this song. This was Dinosaur Jr. bass man Lou Barlow's lo-fi side project which turned into a 10 year gig after DJ gave him the thumb (and middle finger). The video quality is weak; here's a better one with embedding disabled.



And this was Barlow's other project (from the Kids soundtrack)

Someone Still Loves You Boris Yeltsin "Sink/Let It Sway" (2010)

Tight songcraft from former Russian President Boris Yeltsin's favorite indie band. These guys may be emo-certified, but don't let that scare you off.

Deerhunter "Helicopter" (2010)

Deerhunter is a four-man outfit from Atlanta. Though they dabble in different genres, this may be their most mesmerizing tune to date.

Keane "Untitled 1" (2004)

Keane's Hopes and Fears was one of the UK's biggest selling albums of the last decade, and spawned 4 hit singles. This wasn't one of them, but is one of my favorites for it's inquisitive, mystical hook, the perfect theme for a late night trek through a dark, deserted city street. In fact, that whole album has more hooks than a bait and tackle shop.

Elsinore "Lines" (2010) & "Chemicals" (2010)

Elsinore is a Illinois band with a limited budget, but certainly not limited talent. A band to keep an eye on.

Les Savy Fav "Lets Get Out Of Here" (2010)

Relentless, catchy guitar hook and sound that draws comparisons to 90's-era Pavement. A current IRC indie favorite.

The Walkmen "The Rat" (2004)

This showed up on many decade ending lists of the greatest rock songs of the Aughts. Likely because there was a raw anger that comes through, as if it was recorded in their landlady's basement with eviction note in hand. Actually, they have done that. Interestingly, the song of theirs that has heard the most ears was featured in a Saturn Ion commercial in 2006.

The Walkmen's upcoming sixth album is getting good pre-release buzz. Check out four of the songs here (pre-clip ad alert).