Though not necessarily a genre unto itself, many of the bands that rose out of the Pacific northwest in the '90s shared a common sound, and even shared some members. For example, Sleater-Kinney drummer Janet Weiss also played drums for ex-husband Sam Coomes in Portland, Ore., band Quasi. The late great Elliott Smith also helped out on that project, which could serve as the launching point for some great indie-rock degrees of separation game. How many can you string together?
Quasi: Let's get this straight. The White Stripes are not brother and sister, but rather former spouses. But back when they were still happily married, another duo made of exes had already made their mark. Sam Coomes, also of Heatmiser, and Janet Weiss hit it sort of big with their big northwest sound. Albums to check out: 1996's "Early Recordings" provide a nice overview, but personal fave "Field Studies" is more cohesive.
Spinanes: Though formed in Chicago, Ill., the duo of guitarist/singer Rebecca Gates and drummer Scott Plouf headed over to Seattle and Sub-Pop records following the release of their second album, "Strand." Originally categorized by the early definition of "college rock" (i.e. R.E.M.), the group quickly came into their own, especially with 1998's awesome "Arches and Aisles."
Pavement: Stockton, Calif., is in the northern part, right? No matter. Pavement helped define what indie-rock sounds like, specifically the Pacific part, when some of today's bands still listened to show tunes with their parents. Led by Stephen Malkmus, who later went on to a pretty successful solo career, Pavement emboldened lazy kids everywhere with their meandering music and lyrics glorifying boredom, skateboards, not giving a shit and not getting haircuts. Don't listen to anyone who volunteers his or her favorite Pavement album. Listen to all of them and then decide.
Heatmiser: Elliott Smith used to be in a rock band, and it ruled. They put out three relatively obscure LPs and a handful of singles, but they made waves still felt today. Heatmiser proved to be as eclectic as it was focused, and poppy as it was innovative, with songs ranging from grunge-esque to the more acoustic-based tunes that later made Elliott Smith famous. And more than a footnote should be co-singer/songwriter Neil Gust, who penned many of their standout tracks. Check out "Mic City Sons" (1996).
Sleater-Kinney: This all-grrrl trio from Olympia, Wash., has influenced countless bands, from The Donnas to The Gossip, and inspired another thousand or so girls to learn guitar. Still going strong after their formation in 1994, Sleater-Kinney combine punk, early indie-rock and liberal politics to create a big friendly giant of power. Check out 1997's "Dig Me Out" or 2005's "The Woods"
