Classic alternative

Typical genres

• New wave: A major part of this category, especially early bands like The Cars, The Police, Blondie and Talking Heads.
• Power pop: Bands such as The Knack and The Romantics are often included in this category.
• College rock: The major building block of American alternative rock, and thus artists in that genre are played often. The early works of R.E.M., The Replacements and They Might Be Giants usually show up on classic alternative stations.
• Post-punk and British alternative/indie rock: Common on many classic alternative stations, and often added for variety. Artists include New Order, The Smiths and U2.
• Gothic rock and dark wave: Bands such as The Cure, Joy Division, Siouxsie and the Banshees, Bauhaus and Killing Joke.
• Grunge: Sometimes played on classic alternative stations, but more often found on modern rock stations. Includes artists such as Nirvana, Soundgarden, Stone Temple Pilots and Pearl Jam.
• Synthpop: Bands such as Duran Duran, Depeche Mode and Pet Shop Boys and songs like "I Ran " by A Flock of Seagulls and "Take On Me" by a-ha are essential on classic alternative stations.
• Dream pop and shoegaze: Bands such as Cocteau Twins, My Bloody Valentine, Slowdive, Ride, and The Jesus and Mary Chain. Uncommon, and depends on the amount of post-punk played on the station.
• New Romantic: Bands such as Spandau Ballet and Adam and the Ants.
• Ska revival: Bands such as Madness and The English Beat.
• Indie pop and modern indie rock: Artists include Aztec Camera and Orange Juice.
• Punk: Artist include Ramones and The Clash.