1990 - Browse By Year

The year 1990 was a fascinating musical crossroads, a moment caught between the lingering echoes of 80s synth-pop and the raw, emerging sounds of what would become the alternative nation. It was a time of creative transition, where established artists pushed their boundaries and new voices began to lay the groundwork for a revolution. Our 1990 collection captures this unique and exciting period.

This was the year that saw the rise of Madchester, with bands like the Happy Mondays and The Stone Roses solidifying a sound that blended indie rock with dance culture. It was also a year for powerful statements, from the political fire of Public Enemy's Fear of a Black Planet to Sinéad O'Connor's hauntingly beautiful I Do Not Want What I Haven't Got. Meanwhile, artists like Depeche Mode reached new heights with the gothic stadium rock of Violator, and A Tribe Called Quest introduced their innovative jazz-infused hip-hop on People's Instinctive Travels and the Paths of Rhythm.

On vinyl, the rich and diverse productions of 1990 truly shine. The format captures the warmth of the early digital synthesisers alongside the organic feel of live-band recordings, offering a tangible connection to a decade on the brink of profound change.

Explore our 1990 collection below and discover the sounds that bridged two eras.