alternative music

[awl-tur-nuh-tiv myoo-zik]

noun

1. music that is outside the mainstream and does not conform to the standard type of any genre, often characterized by features such as experimental or intricate instrumentation, layered sound, and reflective, emotional, or socially aware lyrics.

2. rock music that departs from classic or mainstream rock, borrowing from or crossing over into other genres, such as punk, heavy metal, electronica, or folk.

Example Sentences

The same year, they bagged the inaugural award for best alternative music act at the Mobo Awards.

From BBC

"Wide Awake Festival has a proud history of supporting the alternative music scene and we look forward to staging another unforgettable event showcasing the very best emerging and established talent," they said.

From BBC

St. Vincent scored several awards on the night, including best alternative music album for All Born Screaming.

From BBC

A be-horned Kim Gordon is up for best alternative music album for The Collective.

From BBC

Many Grammy watchers expected a showdown here between St. Vincent and Vampire Weekend, both of whom have won alternative music album twice.

From Los Angeles Times