The 2010s brought new experimental rock albums that changed the genre. Swans’ ‘To Be Kind’ had intense sounds, and Tame Impala’s ‘Lonerism’ mixed synths with rock. Grimes’ ‘Visions’ blended electronic and pop, while Radiohead’s ‘A Moon Shaped Pool’ had detailed soundscapes. Death Grips’ ‘The Money Store’ was energetic and mixed different styles. These albums stood out and changed rock music.
Swans – ‘To Be Kind’
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Swans’ ‘To Be Kind’ is one of the most groundbreaking albums of the decade, blending post-rock, noise, and avant-garde elements. The album offers an intense and captivating listening experience. One highlight is ‘Bring the Sun / Toussaint L’Ouverture,’ a 34-minute track that showcases Swans’ ability to push musical boundaries. ‘To Be Kind’ is critically acclaimed for its bold approach and stands out in Swans’ discography and the experimental rock genre of the 2010s. It’s a must-listen for anyone interested in the best experimental rock albums of the past decade.
Tame Impala – ‘Lonerism’
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Tame Impala’s ‘Lonerism,’ released in 2012, is a standout album of the 2010s. Kevin Parker’s intricate production and unique vocals create a lush, psychedelic experience that blurs genre lines. Songs like ‘Feels Like We Only Go Backwards’ and ‘Elephant’ became fan favorites, highlighting Parker’s talent for blending rich soundscapes with catchy melodies. ‘Lonerism’ pushed the boundaries of modern psychedelic and experimental rock, influencing many artists and reshaping the music of the decade. It’s an essential listen for anyone exploring experimental rock.
Grimes – ‘Visions’
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Grimes’ ‘Visions,’ released in 2012, blends electronic and experimental pop elements. Tracks like ‘Genesis’ and ‘Oblivion’ showcase her inventive production style and ethereal vocals. The album explores themes of identity, technology, and self-expression, earning critical acclaim and numerous accolades. ‘Visions’ helped establish Grimes as a key figure in avant-garde music, with each track offering a unique exploration of sound. It’s a standout in her discography and the experimental genre.
Radiohead – ‘A Moon Shaped Pool’

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Released in 2016, Radiohead’s ‘A Moon Shaped Pool’ is known for its detailed sounds and deep emotions. This album, their ninth, received a lot of praise and confirmed their status as a top experimental rock band. Songs like ‘Burn the Witch’ and ‘Daydreaming’ feature haunting melodies and creative production.
Key points about the album:
- Rich Sounds: Each song wraps listeners in layered, immersive music.
- Emotional Depth: The lyrics and music bring out strong feelings of sadness and thoughtfulness.
- High Praise: The album topped the UK Albums Chart and was nominated for a Grammy.
- Creative Production: The band used advanced techniques to create their unique sound.
- Smooth Flow: The album feels like a complete piece, not just a collection of songs.
‘A Moon Shaped Pool’ is a must-listen for anyone interested in the best experimental rock albums of the 2010s. Add it to your playlist to experience Radiohead’s amazing artistry.
Death Grips – ‘The Money Store
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Death Grips’ ‘The Money Store’ stands out for its raw, aggressive energy. Released in 2012, this album quickly earned critical acclaim and a dedicated following. It mixes punk, electronic, and hip-hop elements, pushing the boundaries of rock.
Key points about ‘The Money Store’:
- Intense Sound: The album features strong vocals and industrial-like production.
- Bold Experimentation: Its unique style helped Death Grips become leaders in the experimental rock scene.
- High Energy: The album’s raw energy makes it exciting and different.
- Top Pick: It’s a favorite among experimental rock fans and often ranks high on music charts.
Conclusion
The 2010s were a golden age for experimental rock. Swans’ ‘To Be Kind’ explored intense sounds, Tame Impala’s ‘Lonerism’ mixed genres with lush synths, Grimes’ ‘Visions’ combined electronic and pop, Radiohead’s ‘A Moon Shaped Pool’ had intricate soundscapes, and Death Grips’ ‘The Money Store’ brought raw energy. These albums redefined the genre and left a lasting impact on music.