10 More Forgotten 90s Rock Albums for Your Playlists
Return to the world of obscure 90s rock with The Bardots, Spectacle, Downy Mildew and more.
You didn't think we were done exploring the world of obscure alternative rock, did you? After the first two installments, I ventured back into the depths of Spotify to find more 90s albums that the Internet almost forgot--until now. If you've heard of these records before, I congratulate you on your discerning tastes. Otherwise, get ready to revive your playlists with fresh tracks from defunct bands.
1. Cloverleaves by Honey Langstrumpf
Originating in Palma de Mallorca, Honey Langstrumpf released one full-length album and three EPs, including 1996's Cloverleaves. During their four-year career, the band played shows in Spain and recorded a single promotional video. This EP features echoing vocals and harsh instrumentals that trail off into delicate melodies.
Members: Julio Mulet, Luis Imperiale, Enrique F. Fuentes, Diego Aguila, Enrique Fernandez-Carracedo
2. Glow In The Dark Soul by Spectacle
Originally known as The Cherry Smash, Spectacle released Glow In The Dark Soul in 1998. This Los Angeles-based group delights your senses with soft, endearing vocals, glittering instrumentals and poppy tunes. Unfortunately, Spectacle released only a single record before disappearing from the music scene.
Members: Brad Laner, Blake Miller, Jim Goodall, Brent Rademaker
3. In Red and Yellow by Puffin
Puffin was a Swedish band that went through two name changes before they settled on their final moniker. While they initially planned to release one EP after every full-length album, 1996's In Red and Yellow was their last record. While the overarching tone is heavy and introspective, these tracks occasionally surprise you with a little jazziness.
Members: Magnus Åstrom, Helena Espvall, Eskil Lövström, Jon Rudberg, Mattias Jonsson, Robert Norsten, Per Helin
4. it's not you, it's me by Mollycuddle
Before the 2020s explosion of slowcore groups that titled their songs and albums in all-lowercase, Mollycuddle employed this technique with 1998's it's not you, it's me. After forming in 1994, the band was active for six years until their drummer moved away to complete his dissertation. With lo-fi production and a distinctly casual sound, this record makes you want to chill on the couch for a while.
Members: Sara Aase, Guy Lawhead, Judson Hildreth, Tommy Kim
5. Slow Sky by Downy Mildew
After forming in the 80s, undergoing multiple lineup changes and releasing several albums and EPs, 1994's Slow Sky was Downy Mildew's final word on the California music scene. Jenny Homer's soothing vocals bring out the music's light, ethereal warmth, making this record essential for anyone who loves folksy rock.
Members: Jenny Homer, Nancy McCoy, Rob Jacobs, Charlie Baldonado, Janine Cooper, John Hofer, Mike Marasse, Jason Kahn, Salvador Garza
6. Eye-Baby by The Bardots
In 1989, The Bardots formed at The University of East Anglia in Norwich. After their early singles received some media buzz, they released two albums, including 1992's Eye-Baby, before they disappeared. Wry, charismatic vocals seep into gothic arrangements that wouldn't feel out of place among the "dark academia" crowd.
Members: Neil Cox, Andy Murphy, Simon Dunford, Steve Cox, Yves Atlanta, Krzysztof Fijalkowski
7. Nude Nudes by Honey Tongue
In 1992, Breeders' Josephine Wiggs and Spiritualized's John Mattock released the duo's sole album, Nude Nudes, under the name Honey Tongue. Wigg played most of the instruments during the 15-day recording session. Instead of hard rock, this record opts for a light, delicate sound with quiet tension bubbling underneath the surface.
Members: Josephine Wiggs, John Mattock
8. Gone by Stuntbike
Hailing from Flekkefjord, Norway, Stuntbike released their only full-length album, Gone, in 1998. The production amplifies the harsh vocals, crisp drumming and grungey instrumentals, making you feel like you're watching a garage band perform live on a hot summer afternoon.
Members: Hein Flikka Hammervold, Rune Furuborg, Truls Haugland, Rune Mortenson
9. Boca Juniors by Mufflon 5
Mufflon 5's career lasted only four years, but they left behind two singles and three full-length albums, including 1993's Boca Juniors. During this period, they became one of the few Swedish artists to record a John Peel Session for the BBC. Complex and vibrant, their peppy sound could brighten anyone's day.
Members: Karl Mogren, Fabian Edmar, Daniel Mannheimer, Lars Johansson
10. Present General Conditions by Dwindle
Dwindle famously keeps a low profile, to the point that I couldn't find John and Jeff's surnames anywhere online. Their 1994 EP, Present General Conditions, contains five songs that the band recorded with engineer Tim Green. While these tracks are closer to grunge than hard rock, each one simmers with nervous energy until it's about to burst.
Members: Bruce Templeton, John, Jeff
Have you listened to any of these albums? Which bands would you add to the list? Sound off in the comments.
About the Creator
Kaitlin Shanks
Lifestyle blogger and fiction writer. No AI-generated content here: everything you see comes from my own brain, including the em dashes. For more excitement, visit me on Instagram at @kaitlineshanks.



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