3 Alternative Rock Artists From the 1970s Who Disappeared Without a Trace
The 1970s saw the birth of alternative rock, and while some bands found success, others vanished without a trace. Let's explore three such bands and their stories.
Joy Division: The Post-Punk Pioneers
Joy Division, formed in 1976, is a legendary post-punk band that left an indelible mark on the music world. Their 1979 album, Unknown Pleasures, is a haunting and beautiful masterpiece, reaching No. 5 in the UK charts. This album's unique sound, blending gothic rock and post-punk, was a game-changer. However, the band's success was cut short by the tragic death of Ian Curtis, the charismatic frontman, in 1980. The remaining members, determined to keep the spirit alive, formed New Order, a band that continued to influence the music scene.
Brainticket: The Swiss Krautrock Experimentals
Brainticket, a Swiss krautrock band, brought a unique blend of psychedelic, exotic, and jazz-infused sounds to the alternative rock scene. Their early albums, Cottonwoodhill (1971) and Psychonaut (1972), are highly regarded. Despite their initial success, Brainticket faced a tumultuous journey. The band initially broke up in 1975 but reformed in 1980 and 1998. However, their later releases couldn't match the cult classic status of their early work. The passing of core member Joel Vandroogenbroeck in 2019 marked the end of an era for Brainticket.
The Modern Lovers: Proto-Punk Garage Rock Legends
When thinking of 1970s alternative rock, The Modern Lovers stand out. This Massachusetts-based band, formed in 1970, delivered iconic hits like 'Roadrunner (Once)' and 'Egyptian Reggae,' which found more success in the UK and Europe. Despite their early promise, the band's chart presence faded by 1978, and they officially disbanded in 1974. However, the spirit of The Modern Lovers lived on through Jonathan Richman, the charismatic frontman, who continued to use the name for various backing bands, keeping the legacy alive.
