The indie rock era of the 2010s has passed, and there are quite a few bands from that era that definitely deserve a solid comeback in the 2020s. Let’s look at a few examples, shall we?
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1. Joyce Manor
Ah, Joyce Manor. Nobody was pulling punk rock and power pop into the 2010s quite like this outfit. Joyce Manor released several killer emo and indie rock records in the 2010s, including their self-titled 2011 debut and the critically acclaimed Never Hungover Again a few years later. They’re still making music and touring today, but they deserve way more attention than they get.
2. Car Seat Headrest
What originally started as Will Toledo’s solo project evolved into a fully functioning band in the 2010s. Car Seat Headrest is best known for the 2011 record Twin Fantasy, as well as their work and touring efforts after getting signed to Matador Records in 2015. A standout indie rock and lo-fi act, Car Seat Headrest has released several records as a full band, including the recent 2025 effort The Scholars.
3. Fontaines D.C.
Out of all the 2010s bands on this list that deserve a major comeback, it looks like it might actually happen for Fontaines D.C. This Irish post-punk outfit got together in the mid-2010s, and they started making waves in the scene with the release of their 2019 debut Dogrel. Fontaines D.C. might just be remembered more for their 2020s work at this point, considering how much of a huge hit the 2020 indie rock record A Hero’s Death was. Their last two records have done phenomenally well, including the 2024 release Romance, which finally charted in the US.
4. Great Grandpa
Great Grandpa is best known for their last two albums of the 2010s, and either of them could be considered among the best indie rock records of the decade. This writer is a fan of Plastic Cough from 2017, in particular. Great Grandpa has finally announced the release of their latest studio album, Patience, Moonbeam, at the end of March 2025. We could see a comeback for this Seattle outfit soon enough!
5. Chvrches
Chvrches should be at the top of this list of 2010s bands that deserve a comeback. This Scottish synth-pop outfit defined the 2010s with their glittering soundscapes and indie-pop leanings. Their debut 2013 album, The Bones Of What You Believe, is essential listening.
Photo courtesy of Fontaines D.C.’s official Facebook page
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