Rachel Goodman’s top alt-rock and alt-pop songs of 2021. L to R; Row 1: Paul McCartney and Phoebe Bridgers; Maxïmo Park; Kings of Leon; Black Country, New Road; Wet Leg, The War on Drugs. Row 2: BC Camplight, Cannons, Strand of Oaks, Hovvdy, Ladyhawke, Fences, Sea Wolf, Courtney Barnett.…

Clockwise from top left: Sofi Tukker featuring Amadou & Mariam, Cola Boyy, Gunnar Gehl, Wye Oak, Ladyhawke, The Academic, BC Camplight and BOY. By now, at least in California, most of us have been vaccinated. If not, go see your local pharmacy. The hottest ticket may be your vaccination…