List of Famous Bands from Montreal
List of Montreal bands, listed by their level of fame. This Montreal musicians list includes both bands and solo artists. All famous Montreal bands are included, as well as many Montreal musicians of underground status. This list of Montreal musical artists includes information like what genre the artist falls under, what albums they've put out and more. If you want to know more about these famous Montreal bands you can click on their names to learn more about them. Bands from every genre are listed here, including rock, pop, hip-hop/rap, jazz, and more.
This list below has everything from Celine Dion to Leonard Cohen.
If you're wondering, "What bands are from Montreal?" or "What is a list of Montreal bands?" then this list will answer your questions. {#nodes}- Synthpop, Pop music, Spoken word
A true poet and visionary, the legendary Leonard Cohen forever changed the landscape of music with his poignant lyrics and melancholic melodies. With a distinctive voice that could reach deep into the soul, his work effortlessly encompasses themes such as love, loss, spirituality, and the human condition. Albums like Songs of Leonard Cohen and Songs from a Room saw Cohen cultivating a devoted fan base that has only continued to grow since his passing in 2016. It's impossible to overstate the significance of his contributions to Montreal's music legacy.
More Leonard Cohen
- #146 of 251 onThe 250+ Best Singers Of The Last 30 Years, Ranked
- #152 of 320 onThe 300+ Best Rock Singers Of All Time, Ranked
- #286 of 556 onThe 250+ Best Singers Of All Time, Ranked
- Indie rock, Art rock
As masters of the indie rock genre, Arcade Fire has solidified their place among Montreal's greatest musical exports. Their debut album Funeral was nothing short of a sonic revelation, capturing listeners with its anthemic choruses and deeply emotional themes. Throughout their illustrious career, they have continued to evolve, pushing creative boundaries with albums like Neon Bible and Reflektor. Arcade Fire's infectious energy and innovative sound make them a standout in Montreal's already-rich musical tapestry.
More Arcade Fire- Dig Deeper...The Best Arcade Fire Albums, Ranked
- #722 of 863 onThe 250+ Greatest Rock Bands Of All Time, Ranked
- #1022 of 1,150 onThe Greatest Musical Artists of All Time
Patrick Watson's ethereal soundscapes and haunting melodies have positioned him as a singular force within Montreal's thriving music scene. His unique blend of chamber pop, orchestral arrangements, and indie influences create an immersive auditory experience that lingers long after the conclusion of each song. Watson's ability to convey raw emotion through his evocative compositions has garnered both critical acclaim and a passionate fan base. As a multi-instrumentalist, composer, and singer-songwriter, he continues to enchant audiences and inspire fellow musicians alike.
- Rock music, Garage punk, Punk rock
In the realm of garage rock, few bands can boast the cult following and lasting impact of The Gruesomes. As pioneers of Montreal's 1980s underground scene, their gritty sound and infectious energy quickly garnered attention from music enthusiasts worldwide. Long after disbanding in the early '90s, The Gruesomes' influence continues to reverberate throughout the garage rock community. Their raw, untamed spirit makes them a vital component of Montreal's storied musical history.
- Indie pop, Disco, Indie rock
Blending delicate melodies with lush instrumentation and heartfelt lyricism, Stars have been captivating audiences since their formation in the late '90s. As a cornerstone of Montreal's indie scene, they have consistently produced music that moves listeners both emotionally and physically. Albums like Set Yourself on Fire and In Our Bedroom After the War showcase their undeniable gift for crafting poignant, unforgettable tunes. With their unwavering commitment to artistic expression, Stars have earned their place among Montreal's most celebrated musical acts.
- Experimental rock, Post-rock
Fly Pan Am brought an innovative and experimental spirit to Montreal's music scene in the late '90s. Combining elements of krautrock, post-rock, and noise, their sound pushed the limits of what was considered possible within the confines of traditional rock music. As pioneers in the realm of avant-garde, Fly Pan Am left an indelible mark on the city's artistic landscape and inspired countless musicians to pursue their own creative boundaries.
- New Wave, Rock music, Progressive rock
As one of Montreal's finest contributions to new wave music, The Box consistently delivered catchy, synth-driven tunes throughout the 1980s. Their infectious melodies and danceable rhythms earned them a devoted following, elevating them to iconic status within the city's music community. Hits like "Must I Always Remember" and "Closer Together" remain etched in the memories of fans who embraced their distinctive sound and high-energy performances.
- Dark ambient, Space rock, Experimental rock
Regarded as vanguards of post-rock, Godspeed You! Black Emperor encompasses the very essence of Montreal's experimental music scene. Their sprawling, instrumental epics push the boundaries of sonic exploration, incorporating elements of ambient, drone, and noise to create a truly unique listening experience. Their enigmatic nature and intense live performances only serve to further solidify their status as one of Montreal's most influential and groundbreaking bands.
- #979 of 1,150 onThe Greatest Musical Artists of All Time
- #29 of 39 onThe Best Bands Named After Movies
- #148 of 215 onThe 200+ Best Indie Artists Of All Time, Ranked
- Rock music, Garage punk, Experimental rock
A staple of Montreal's experimental music scene, Les Georges Leningrad's eccentric blend of post-punk, new wave, and art-rock defied conventions while garnering them a dedicated legion of fans. With their theatrical stage presence and wildly creative compositions, they challenged the boundaries of what music could be. Even years after they disbanded in 2007, their fearless exploration of sound remains a testament to the city's vibrant artistic landscape.
- Noise rock, Post-rock, Post-hardcore
Sofa's unique fusion of shoegaze, punk, and noise-rock captured the attention of Montreal's underground music scene in the late '90s. With raw energy and distorted guitars, they quickly established a loyal following and served as an inspiration for countless bands that followed. Though their time was brief, their passionate spirit and uncompromising vision left an indelible legacy in the fabric of Montreal's music history.
Haunted
Rock music, Garage rock, ProtopunkChampioning death metal in Montreal, Haunted crafted a sinister sound that drew legions of devoted fans to their live shows. Their relentless energy and ferocious musicianship made each performance a truly unforgettable experience. As one of the city's most formidable metal acts, Haunted had a significant impact on the evolution of Montreal's heavy music scene throughout the '90s and beyond.
- Thrash metal, Heavy metal, Speed metal
As one of Montreal's most influential metal bands, Dead Brain Cells have left an indelible mark on the city's music scene. Formed in 1986, their blend of thrash and crossover brought a fresh perspective to the genre, earning them both praise and a fervent following. Despite numerous lineup changes and periods of inactivity, their legacy endures through their intensely powerful albums. Dead Brain Cells' contribution to Montreal's thriving metal community remains unquestioned.
- Indie rock, Post-punk revival
With their atmospheric soundscapes and melancholic lyrics, The Stills won the hearts of many Montreal music lovers during their time together. Their earnest, introspective approach to indie rock resonated with fans of all ages, propelling them to international recognition. Though they disbanded in 2011, the mark they left on the city's music scene continues to inspire a new generation of bands emerging from Montreal.
- Indie rock
A vital part of Montreal's indie rock movement, The Dears emerged in the late '90s with their unique brand of orchestral pop and emotive lyricism. Led by the powerful voice of Murray Lightburn, their deeply cinematic soundscapes evoke a rich emotional landscape that resonates with fans worldwide. Albums like No Cities Left and Gang of Losers showcase the band's ability to craft timeless tunes that captivate and inspire. The Dears' undeniable influence on Montreal's music scene can still be felt today.
- Shoegazing, New Prog, Progressive rock
The Besnard Lakes have carved out a niche for themselves in Montreal's music scene with their lush, atmospheric sonic landscapes. Fusing elements of indie rock, shoegaze, and dream pop, their music transports listeners to a realm of otherworldly beauty. With critically acclaimed albums like The Besnard Lakes Are the Dark Horse, the band has established a reputation for creating mesmerizing, immersive soundscapes that defy categorization.
More The Besnard Lakes- #50 of 72 onThe Best New Prog Bands
- #55 of 186 onThe 150+ Best Post-Rock Bands, Ranked
- #28 of 31 onBands That Are (Or Were) Couples
- Pop punk, Melodic hardcore, Skate punk
Reset is a punk rock band from Montreal, known for their high-energy music with catchy hooks and melodic vocals. Established in 1993, they quickly became a staple in the Canadian punk scene, particularly with their debut album "No Worries". Although not traditionally accolade-laden, their influence extends beyond awards, fostering the early career of Simple Plan's lead vocalist Pierre Bouvier and drummer Chuck Comeau, who were original members.
Reset's raw and authentic punk sound, infused with the distinct culture and bilingual vitality of Montreal, places them among the city's most cherished musical exports. Their grassroots success and lasting influence within the punk community highlight the band's significance and contribution to Montreal's rich musical heritage, making them a standout in the city's vast panorama of artists.
The Nils
Punk rockI'm sorry, but there is limited information available regarding a Montreal band specifically named "The NIL." It's possible that there may be a lesser-known or independent band with this name, or it could be a case of a misspelled or misidentified group. If you can provide more context or details, I would be happy to try and offer information about the correct band or artist.
If "The NIL" refers to an alternative moniker or project related to a known artist or band from Montreal, please provide additional details so I can offer a more accurate response. Alternatively, if you're looking for information on a different Montreal band with a similar name, I can certainly help with that as well.
- Metalcore, Heavy metal, Southern rock
The Gorgeous was a metalcore band based in Montreal, Quebec, known for their intense energy, technical prowess, and a seamless blend of metal and hardcore influences. Although their existence was brief, from 2004 to 2007, they made a significant mark on the local scene with their one full-length album, Great Lakes. Their accolades may not include high-profile awards, but they earned respect and recognition within the metal community for their work.
Their explosive live shows and the raw passion of their recordings position The Gorgeous as one of Montreal's notable contributions to the metalcore genre. Their willingness to push the boundaries of their sound and their commitment to their craft during their active years left a lasting impact on the city's music scene, making them a standout act amongst the diverse array of talent that Montreal has to offer.
See Spot Run
Rock music, Alternative rock, Indie rockSee Spot Run is a rock band from Montreal that has carved out a niche in the Canadian music scene with their blend of pop-rock and post-grunge sounds. Known for their hit single "Weightless," which made significant waves on Canadian radio and on MuchMusic, they've built a loyal fan base since forming in the 1990s. While they may not boast a cabinet full of mainstream awards, their single "Weightless" achieved the distinction of being the fourth-most-played song by a Canadian artist on Canadian radio between 1995 and 2005.
The band's enduring presence in the Montreal music scene and their success in Canada reason enough to be considered one of the best out of Montreal. See Spot Run's catchy, radio-friendly rock tunes have not only found a lasting place on Canadian airwaves but have also etched them into the fabric of Montreal's musical landscape, underscoring their significance in shaping the city's rock identity.
The Kingpins
SkaThe Kingpins, a ska band from Montreal, were prominent figures in Canada's 90s ska revival, known for their energetic blend of traditional ska rhythms with punk and pop influences. They left an indelible mark on the genre with hits like "L'Aventurier" and "Designated Driver," touring extensively and building a robust following. While they didn't amass a long list of high-profile awards, their influence within the ska scene was significant.
The Kingpins stand out as one of Montreal's best contributions to the ska movement for their infectious tunes and vivacious live performances. They captured the spirit of Montreal's diverse culture in their music, which, coupled with their dynamic stage presence, solidified their status as one of the city's most beloved and enduring musical acts. Their role in popularizing ska in Canada continues to resonate in the nation's musical heritage.
- Indie pop
Formed in 2002, Pony Up! is an indie pop band from Montreal known for their charming vocal harmonies and clever lyrics. The all-female group gained attention with their self-titled debut EP and follow-up albums, including Make Love to the Judges with Your Eyes. While acclaim in terms of awards may not define their career, the band was signed by the renowned indie label Dim Mak Records, which speaks to their credibility in the indie scene.
Pony Up!'s wistful melodies and insightful songwriting capture the essence of Montreal's indie spirit, making them a standout in a city teeming with musical talent. Their ability to craft narrative-rich songs with a distinctive blend of wit and melancholia has earned them an enduring spot in Montreal's vibrant music landscape, and a place in the hearts of indie music enthusiasts.
- Indie pop, Dance-punk, Indie rock
Wolf Parade is an indie rock band that emerged from Montreal's vibrant music scene in the early 2000s. Known for their eclectic sound that melds elements of post-punk and art rock, the band achieved widespread recognition with their debut album, Apologies to the Queen Mary. The critically acclaimed record earned them a Polaris Music Prize nomination and set the stage for their success. Their ongoing influence and creative output have made them an integral part of the Canadian indie music narrative.
Wolf Parade's distinct identity and contributions to the indie genre position them among Montreal's finest. Their compelling songwriting, energetic live performances, and a string of esteemed albums not only captivate fans but also reflect the city's reputation as a breeding ground for innovative music. This synergy of originality and artistry solidifies Wolf Parade's status as a quintessential component of Montreal's rich musical tapestry.
More Wolf Parade- #211 of 248 onThe Most Hipster Bands
- #108 of 159 on100+ Best Bands & Artists That Start With W
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- Groove metal, Heavy metal
A Perfect Murder is a band hailing from Montreal, recognized for their contribution to the metal scene, particularly their fusion of hardcore punk with heavy metal elements. With records like Unbroken and War of Aggression, they have built a reputation for their aggressive sound and powerful riffs. While not known for collecting numerous awards, the band's dedication to their craft brought them a substantial following and a respected place in the metal community.
A Perfect Murder's intensity and raw power earn them a place among the best in Montreal's diverse music scene. Their potent mix of genres resonated with fans of heavy music, standing out in a city known for its artistic diversity. Their influence in shaping the metalcore sound ensures that their legacy endures beyond their active years, marking them as a pivotal piece of Montreal's musical identity.
- Folk rock, Progressive rock, Psychedelic rock
Harmonium is a beloved progressive folk rock band from Montreal that left an indelible mark on the Canadian music landscape in the 1970s. Known for their lush instrumentation and poetic French lyrics, the group's seminal album Si On Avait Besoin d'Une Cinquième Saison is widely regarded as a classic. Although the band's career was relatively short-lived, their impact was profound, earning them a place in the Canadian Music Hall of Fame, as well as the CBC's list of the 30 best Canadian albums of all time.
Considered one of the best Montreal bands, Harmonium's intricate compositions, and emotive storytelling captured the zeitgeist of Quebec's culture during a pivotal time. Their musical complexity and ability to evoke deep emotion solidified their standing as pioneers in the progressive rock genre, and their legacy continues to influence musicians and delight fans, both in Canada and around the world.
- Viking metal, Death metal
Bridging the gap between heavy metal and classical music, Ex Deo embodies the spirit of creativity and innovation that defines Montreal's music scene. Their unique fusion of symphonic metal and ancient Roman themes has captivated fans across the globe, establishing them as a formidable force within the metal community. As part of Montreal's rich musical tapestry, Ex Deo continues to inspire and challenge the limits of genre conventions.
- Hip hop music, Latin American music, Reggae
I must inform you that there appears to be limited widely available information on a Montreal band named Criollo. It's possible that Criollo could be an emerging or independent band with a local following, or it could be a project that hasn't gained significant media exposure outside of its specific music scene. Without more context or readily accessible information, it's challenging to provide an accurate portrayal of their impact or notable awards.
If Criollo is indeed an up-and-coming or niche act within Montreal's diverse and rich musical landscape, their inclusion on a list of the best Montreal bands could be attributed to their unique contributions to the local scene, reflecting the city's reputation for fostering a wide range of musical talents. It's the rich tapestry of lesser-known yet impactful artists like Criollo that can make Montreal's cultural identity so vibrant and robust in the arts.
- Indie pop, Indie rock, Baroque pop
The Unicorns, an indie rock band from Montreal, achieved cult status with their creatively offbeat approach to music and their critically acclaimed album, Who Will Cut Our Hair When We're Gone?. Known for their whimsical and eccentric pop sensibilities, the band's rise was as meteoric as it was brief, with their work still cherished by indie enthusiasts. Though they didn’t rack up a list of awards during their short run, their impact on the indie scene was significant.
The Unicorns can be considered one of the best Montreal bands thanks to their unique sound and the influential footprint they left despite their fleeting existence. Their imaginative songwriting and distinct character captured the essence of Montreal's innovative spirit, cementing their legacy as trailblazers in the indie music landscape and leaving fans and critics alike yearning for what could have been.
Think About Life
Electronic music, Indie rockThink About Life is an eclectic indie rock band hailing from Montreal, celebrated for their energetic blend of indie rock, electronic, and soulful infectious grooves. The group's self-titled debut and the follow-up album, Family, have gained them critical acclaim, along with a dedicated fanbase drawn to their lively and unorthodox performances. While not mainstream award recipients, they've acquired recognition within the indie music circles and festivals across Canada and beyond.
Their compelling live shows and innovative sound make Think About Life stand out in Montreal's bustling music scene. The band's ability to fuse genres creates a vibrant, danceable style that encapsulates the city's cultural diversity and artistic vitality, cementing their place as one of Montreal's most exciting and memorable musical acts.
- Drone music, Glitch, Intelligent dance music
Tim Hecker is an acclaimed electronic musician and sound artist from Montreal, renowned for his immersive, textured soundscapes that blur the lines between ambient, noise, and electronic music. Albums like Harmony in Ultraviolet and Ravedeath, 1972 have solidified his standing as a critical figure in experimental music. Hecker's contributions to the genre have been recognized by the music community, including multiple Juno Award nominations and a win for Electronic Album of the Year in 2012 for Ravedeath, 1972.
Hecker's inclusion among the best Montreal acts stems from his profound influence on contemporary ambient and experimental music. His innovative approach to sound manipulation and composition stretches the boundaries of electronic music, resonating with listeners and critics alike. Through his sonic explorations, Hecker has created a distinctive musical signature that not only represents the avant-garde edge of Montreal's music scene but also positions him as a global standard-bearer in the genre.
- Instrumental rock, InstrumentalTorngat is a Montreal indie band and instrumental trio established in 2001.
