244 - 1990s: Britpop & the Indie Revival
In this week’s episode, Paul dives into the fourth part of the British Guitar Music series, spotlighting the vibrant era of Brit Pop and the indie rock revival of the 1990s and early 2000s.
These decades brought guitar music back into the mainstream, known for their catchy hooks, jangly chords, and a strong sense of attitude, along with many riffs and techniques that are highly accessible to beginner guitarists.
Paul explores iconic bands like Oasis, Blur, Arctic Monkeys, Franz Ferdinand, and The Libertines, highlighting the essential gear and tones of the era, breaking down famous songs and riffs, and sharing practical takeaways that you can apply to your playing. Additionally, he concludes with a challenge for listeners to work on during the week.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
Brit Pop & Indie Rock Essentials:
- The defining features of Brit Pop (think Oasis & Blur) and the raw energy of the 2000s indie scene (like Arctic Monkeys & Franz Ferdinand).
- Chords, confidence, and big choruses: why rhythm, open chords, and simple song structures are the backbone of this genre.
Key Guitar Gear of the Era:
- The classic guitars (Epiphones, Gibson Les Pauls, Telecasters, Stratocasters, Rickenbackers, hollow bodies).
- Amps that shaped the sound (Vox AC30, Marshall, Fender Hot Rod Deluxe).
- Go-to pedals (BOSS DS-1/2, Ibanez Tube Screamer, delay pedals like the Boss DD3).
Essential Songs & Riffs to Try:
- “Wonderwall” by Oasis
- “Song 2” by Blur
- “I Bet You Look Good on the Dancefloor” by Arctic Monkeys
- “Take Me Out” by Franz Ferdinand
- “Naive” by The Kooks
- Tips for simplifying and learning these riffs if you’re a beginner.
Learning Takeaways:
- Why mastering rhythm guitar is so important in these styles.
- Ways to improve your chord changes, song structure understanding, and rhythmic feel.
- Experimenting with tone and effects—even/especially with a simple setup.
- How these bands wrote songs with solid structure and infectious energy.
Paul’s Challenge for You:
- Learn one Brit Pop or indie riff/rhythm from the curated Spotify playlist (link below)—whether it’s a riff from “Take Me Out,” the intro to “Wonderwall,” or a rhythm from “Parklife.” Progress is the goal!
Member Updates
New riffs added to the Academy:
- “Tie Your Mother Down” by Queen
- “Should I Stay or Should I Go” (The Clash)
- “Every Breath You Take” (The Police)
- “Just Like Heaven” (The Cure)
Upcoming Live Q&A:
- Sunday, July 27th, 9 pm UK time on Zoom.
- Ask questions live, or pre-submit if you can’t attend. Watch the recording later!
- Check emails for details and links.
Resources & Links
Spotify Playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/049CCrxBQTqkuV2WW5jnNA?si=LNrEU2-AS7KZzJVuVRIAcQ
Academy Members:
- Workshop: “How to Play Like Oasis”
Recap of the British Guitar Music Series
- Ep 241: The 1960s & The British Invasion
- Ep 242: 1970s Rock Legends & British Metal
- Ep 243: 1980s Punk & New Wave
- Ep 244: 1990s Brit Pop & Indie Revival (this episode!)
Thanks for listening!
Don’t forget Paul’s challenge for the week and check out the playlist for tons of inspiration. Reach out on the Academy forum or join the upcoming Q&A if you have questions, song requests, or want help with a tricky riff.
New episode drops next Friday—until then, have a fantastic week and keep practicing!
