Alan Cross asks on his blog today, “Does Alternative Radio Need to Rock More?”
He says that today’s alternative radio is more akin to the original spirit of alternative music than maybe people give it credit for…because grunge.
AC had read Sean Ross’ bit in Billboard which got the wheels turning.
Sean is great because he comes from the school of “stats don’t lie.” He talks in facts and offers insight into the world of trends. I love this line, “So does alternative radio need to rock? A little more. But only a little.”
He goes to to explain the history of the format, and how the textures and songs fit into the narrative of alternative radio, and ultimately to ratings success.
One song that Sean pulled out to illustrate a song that “rocks” in that traditional sense but is also melodic for mass appeal is actress Taylor Momsen‘s band The Pretty Reckless.
Personally, not my style but I can get behind the appeal. Reminds me a bit of a Joan Jett for the year 2014.
A rock band that has been turning my crank for the past couple weeks is a group called The Orwells.
While getting ready for the day this morning, I punched up KEXP in Seattle, and John in the Morning dropped the needle on this cut. So good.
Go with yourself.
The Morning After 
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