Slacker rock is a genre characterized by its laid-back, lo-fi sound, often featuring jangly guitars, shuffling drumbeats, and drawling vocals. Emerging in the 1980s and 1990s, it drew from indie rock, punk, and college radio, as artists sought to reject the polish of mainstream music in favor of a more relaxed, DIY aesthetic. The genre's heyday in the 1990s coincided with the rise of alternative and grunge, but slacker rock's nonchalant attitude and introspective lyrics set it apart from its more aggressive peers. Culturally, slacker rock spoke to a generation of disaffected youth who rejected the pressures of mainstream success, embracing instead a more carefree, creative existence. Its influence can be heard in later genres like chillwave and bedroom pop, but slacker rock's unique blend of humor, irony, and melodic sensibility continues to inspire artists seeking a more relaxed, authentic sound.

Manning Fireworks

MJ Lenderman

Album - 9 Tracks - Released September 6, 2024