Jangle pop

Definition

Jangle pop is a subgenre of alternative rock characterized by its bright, ringing guitar sounds, catchy melodies, and a generally upbeat vibe. It emerged in the 1980s, often associated with the use of 12-string guitars that create a distinctive chime-like tone, which sets it apart from other rock styles. This genre often conveys a sense of nostalgia and has roots in the earlier sounds of 1960s pop music, merging them with the more edgy elements of the indie rock movement.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Jangle pop was influenced by the folk rock sound of the 1960s, particularly bands like The Byrds and The Beatles, who utilized jangly guitar tones.
2. The genre gained popularity during the 1980s with bands like R.E.M. and The Smiths, who brought it to mainstream attention.
3. Lyrically, jangle pop often explores themes of love, longing, and introspection, combined with an upbeat musical backdrop.
4. Jangle pop is known for its DIY ethos, often recorded with a low-budget aesthetic that emphasizes authenticity over polish.
5. The genre's sound is characterized by prominent guitar riffs, melodic hooks, and harmonized vocals, which make it accessible and catchy.

Review Questions

• How does jangle pop incorporate elements from earlier musical styles while still contributing to the alternative rock scene?
  • Jangle pop incorporates elements from 1960s folk rock and pop music by using bright, chiming guitar sounds reminiscent of artists like The Byrds. These jangly tones are blended with the edgier aspects of alternative rock, creating a unique sound that feels both nostalgic and contemporary. This fusion allows jangle pop to maintain its roots in earlier musical traditions while contributing significantly to the evolution of alternative rock in the 1980s and beyond.
• Discuss how bands like R.E.M. and The Smiths helped to popularize jangle pop in the mainstream music scene during the 1980s.
  • R.E.M. and The Smiths played crucial roles in bringing jangle pop into the mainstream by combining its signature sound with compelling lyrics and memorable melodies. R.E.M.'s use of jangly guitar riffs alongside cryptic yet relatable lyrics resonated with listeners and influenced countless artists. The Smiths added their own twist with introspective themes paired with catchy hooks, helping to establish jangle pop as a viable genre within alternative rock during this era.
• Evaluate the impact of jangle pop on the development of indie rock and its influence on modern music today.
  • Jangle pop's emphasis on melody and distinctive guitar sounds laid important groundwork for indie rock's growth, allowing for a broader range of expressions within independent music. Its DIY ethos inspired many modern artists to embrace authenticity over commercial appeal. Today, jangle pop's influence can be seen in numerous contemporary bands who adopt its bright sound while blending it with other genres, demonstrating its lasting legacy in shaping modern music trends.

Related terms

Alternative Rock: A broad genre of music that encompasses a range of styles that diverge from mainstream rock, often focusing on artistic expression and independent production.

Indie Rock: A genre of rock music that is produced independently from major commercial record labels, often showcasing a DIY ethic and a diverse range of sounds.

Post-Punk: A genre that developed in the late 1970s as a response to punk rock, incorporating a wider variety of influences and experimental sounds.