I am an old fart when it comes to rock music. However, I do listen to new bands. Here is part 2 of my top twenty modern rock bands. Feel free to check out Part 1, share your own list, debate my choices or tell me I am wrong in the comments.
The criteria I used for creating this list
Here are the three criteria I used to curate this list:
- Did not release an album until after 2000.
- No one album wonders.
- Obscure choices are allowed.
For example, Red Hot Chilli Peppers have released a lot of great music since the year 2000, but they have been around longer than that. Therefore, they are not on the list.
Modern Rock Band #10 – Caamp
Let’s start the list with an obscure band – Caamp. Yes, their band name has an extra a which makes them oh so cool. These boys are from Ohio. They play acoustic-based music and their singer has a raspy voice. Caamp writes strong songs and they play quality music.
Modern Rock Band #9 – Mowgli’s
Next on the list is the Mowgli’s. They are a West Coast band. I would classify their music as pop. They have released several albums that are fun to listen to. Yes – they are named after the little boy in the Jungle Book.
Coming in at #8 – Lumineers
The Lumineeers is probably better known than my first two selections. Their debut album is awesome. They have released several others full of fine musicianship and solid songs.
Modern Rock Band #7 – The Struts
They look like the band Queen and sound like them as well. The Struts have released several really good albums. I saw them live. They put on quite a show. Highly recommend them.
Modern Rock Band #6 – Twenty-One Pilots
This group includes two dudes making really groundbreaking music. Their album Blurryface is epic. They have multiple songs with over a billion listens on Spotify. I have not seen them in concert. I hope to experience their live show this year.
At #5 – Foster the People
This band has several hit songs. “Pumped Up Kicks”, is their most famous one. Foster the People is on a roll with several great albums in a row. My favorite FTP album is Sacred Hearts Club.
Modern Rock Band #4 – Kings of Leon
At #4, is a pretty well-known band, Kings of Leon. I think their last album was killer, building upon an already impressive catalog. These boys can play and make great music.
Modern Rock Band #3 – Black Keys
We are getting into some really great modern bands. At #3 – the Black Keys. Once again two dudes making great rock music. I would dare say their last few albums stack up against any other bands. They keep releasing more excellent songs with each album.
Coming in at #2 – Mumford and Sons
I really enjoy this band from the UK. Mumford and Sons keep putting out awesome albums. Their last one, Delta, was magical. Some people don’t like their music. But, they can play. Even Robert Plant says they are an awesome band.
Modern Rock band #1 – Switchfoot
My favorite modern rock band is Switchfoot. They are from San Diego. I am somewhat surprised that they are not more popular. Switchfoot has released a ton of great music in the past two decades. I saw them live in concert many times. They always put on an excellent show. I highly recommend seeing them.
There you have it – part 2 of my list of the top twenty modern rock bands. If you recommend a band – let me know in the comments. All feedback is welcome. Feel free to post your own list.
I am Doug Keating and this is my letter to sons.