Just for argument's sake, I'll just label rock music not necessarily popular (at least here in the Philippines) as "Alternative". 

There is not much of a common sound for artists like these since they are so diversified. But a common thread can be woven when it comes to their basic sound. Unlike typical pop music, most alternative artists shy away from common norms in songwriting. Their sound is more individual and less hyped (probably why they aren't really as accepted here as in other countries). We can also call this "Alternative" rock as Progressive rock (again just another label) . I don't think it appropriate but lets just say that these kinds of artists progress on pure songwrting and less hype or image (lame excuse huh?).

Here are my Progressive picks:

U2

Bono in "One" U2 circa 1978 U2 Today

Probably the most durable band in the world. U2 has been on since the start of the 80's and is one of the most innovative and creative rock bands of our times. The four-piece group is composed of Bono (Paul Hewson) on vocals, The Edge on guitars, Adam Clayton on bass and Larry Mullen Jr. on drums.   The word "progressive" fits this group like a glove. When they started out on "Boy" they sounded like a typical euro-punk group. As the years passed, U2 moved in full gear. With the end of the 80's, U2's sound was transformed into a conglomeration of experimental musical influences and their old sound. Their latest album however, promises to return to the more primal U2 sound which is basically what four musicians can do with just their basic instruments. Truly an interesting offer worth checking out.   As of late, many U2 followers from the 80's (myself included) have felt somewhat alienated by the band's new sound and image. The band proves however, that with every album the spirit of U2 always lives on. There is always something worth listening to on a U2 album and this is still true in the 90's. With the onset of the new millenium, fans await U2's next metamorphosis. Who knows, maybe they'll write another "Unforgettable Fire"...

Sarah McLachlan

Sarah in pink More mundane?

Sarah Mclachlan is one of the more provocative songwriters around. This Canadian artist is one if my most favorite rock acts ever. Scouted since she was still in college, Sarah finally signed up with a management group called Nettwerk. She records for Arista and is now one of their most prized artists.      Not so famous here, Sarah Mclachlan outshines her peers in terms of songwriting and execution. Her songs are soulful and expresses a lot of emotion. The arrangements far from primal, are calculated and precise. Her choice of themes are wide, her arrangements even wider. Her voice will rival any pop diva today and her ability to play the guitar and the piano live is unmatched by any female pop star.    One thing about her that stands out is her live act. Backed up by a very (and I mean VERY) good group, her live outing redefines her studio sound. When I say redefine, I mean that it is as if you're listening to another song. The execution is so different and so powerful, that if she released a live cut for every recorded one she did, it would still be worth compiling into a separate album. The most available of course is "Mirrorball" which features most of her latest hits.

The Sundays

In Black and White I'll try to find a colored OK

Distinction may well be one The Sundays' best qualities. They're sound is so...refreshing to say the least. Acoustic themes and clear guitar lines hovering all over Harriet Wheeler's distinct vocals make for one very enjoyable group.     This british group became a really hot indie item before signing up with Rough Trade (same label as The Smiths). The time it took for them to release new records was quite long, and most of the time fans began to wonder whatever happended to them. The last one (I think) was "Static and Silence" which spawned the singles "When I'm Thinking About You" and "Summertime" is a masterpiece.    Whatever happened to them? It has been a long hiatus that might not end. In any case, this band is worth checking out. With a sound that is soulful and pure, the Sundays have (at least I think) made the impact that spirit and songwriting is indeed tasteful.

Soundgarden

Grunge-era Soundgarden Chris Cornell

The ULTIMATE rock band. Soundgarden sound is still the ultimate expression of all that is "Grunge". But there is more to it than that. Soundgarden is a collection of four of the most talented musicians around. Composed of vocalist Chris Cornell, Guitarist Kim Thayil, Bassist Ben Shepherd and Drummer Matt Cameron, the now defunct 'Garden even preceded Nirvana in entering the big leagues.   Soundgarden's sound is beyond definition. It's not heavy metal but it's heavy, it's not funk but its groovy, its not a tenor chorus but damn can Cornell use that voice! There's just too much in the 'Garden groove to identify.   The best thing about Soundgarden (aside fron their totally awesome tunes) is their integrity. They went from indie to big time and still sounded as honest and creative as they can be. Right till the end, Soundgarden always was, and always will be Legendary.

...Ill add more when I get the time