3 Alternative Rock Artists From the 1970s Who Disappeared Without a Trace
The 1970s were a pivotal era for alternative rock, giving birth to some of the genre's most influential bands. Yet, despite their initial success and impact, several of these acts seemingly vanished into thin air, leaving fans and critics alike perplexed. Let's explore the stories of three such bands and their enigmatic disappearances.
Joy Division: The Post-Punk Pioneers
Joy Division, a band that needs no introduction, is often cited as one of the most influential acts in the post-punk movement. Their 1979 debut album, Unknown Pleasures, is a haunting, gothic masterpiece that reached number 5 in the UK charts, a remarkable feat for a debut. With its dark, atmospheric sound, the album set a new standard for the emerging post-punk genre.
However, the band's success was cut short by tragedy. In 1980, lead singer Ian Curtis took his own life, leaving the band devastated and uncertain about their future. Despite their reluctance to continue without Curtis, they released their final album, Closer, posthumously. The remaining members, including the iconic guitarist Bernard Sumner, went on to form the highly influential New Order, a band that continued to shape the electronic and alternative music scenes.
Brainticket: The Swiss Krautrock Experiment
Brainticket, a Swiss krautrock band, brought a unique blend of psychedelic and exotic sounds to the alternative rock scene. Their music, often described as jazzy and experimental, has earned them a cult following. The band's early albums, Cottonwoodhill (1971) and Psychonaut (1972), are considered essential listening for fans of the genre.
Despite their initial success, Brainticket faced a series of setbacks. The band initially broke up in 1975, only to reform in 1980 and again in 1998. However, their later releases failed to capture the magic of their early work. The passing of core member Joel Vandroogenbroeck in 2019 marked the end of an era for Brainticket, leaving fans with a legacy of innovative music.
The Modern Lovers: Proto-Punk Garage Rock
When discussing 1970s alternative rock, The Modern Lovers are often at the forefront. This Massachusetts-based band, formed in 1970, delivered a series of garage rock anthems that were ahead of their time. Songs like "Roadrunner (Once)" and "Egyptian Reggae" gained significant traction in the UK and Europe, but not so much in their home country.
By 1978, The Modern Lovers had run their course, and the band dissolved. They reunited briefly in 1976 and called it quits for good in 1988. Frontman Jonathan Richman continued to use the name for various backing bands, ensuring the legacy of The Modern Lovers lived on through his music.
These three bands, Joy Division, Brainticket, and The Modern Lovers, each left an indelible mark on the alternative rock landscape, only to disappear under mysterious circumstances. Their stories serve as a reminder of the fleeting nature of fame and the enduring impact of artistic genius.
