I'm a big fan of rock music, so admittedly I very rarely consider myself a genuine fan of a modern artist. I'm not saying this to sound like a hipster, just a lot of modern music doesn't appeal to me. Also, the genre of rock is almost considered dead by some. HOWEVER, there are a few modern rock (or alt rock) groups that are absolutely killing it. Here's a list in no specific order.
1. Cage The Elephant
I've been in love with Cage The Elephant since their debut album in 2008. Most people my age are probably most familiar with their song "Ain't No Rest for the Wicked." That song really catapulted them into the public consciousness. Since their self-titled album in '08, they've consistently put out great music. I've been listening to their latest album, "Tell Me I'm Pretty" almost on repeat since it came out in December of 2015. It includes some great tracks like "Cold Cold Cold," "Mess Around" (which I think was in a car commercial) and "How Are You True." These dudes rock. For real.
2. Arctic Monkeys
Arctic Monkeys certainly started out with a harder (more rock-like) sound that has become more palatable for the masses over time, but hey, you gotta make money somehow. I can't remember the first Arctic Monkeys song I heard, but I've been a fan since. They've recently become ridiculously popular with hits like "Do I Wanna Know" and "R U Mine," but their older stuff like "Old Yellow Bricks" is just as jam-worthy (if not more so).
3. Hozier
I know, I know, his hit "Take Me To Church" was blasphemous and barely rock. I agree. But, I encourage you to listen to the rest of his self-titled album. A heavy blues/soul influenced sound matched with his terrific vocals cause songs like "From Eden" and "Work Song" make you want to dance, cry, and apologize to your girlfriend all at the same time.
4. Lake Street Dive
Lake Street Dive is a group with a really cool bluesy/soulful sound. They are led by one of the best female vocalists on the scene right now, and their songs usually include an upright bass feature. Their song "I Don't Care About You" is a bluesy fusion that will reassure you that your exes belong in the past. Their album which dropped in 2016 is called "Side Pony." Yes, it's named after the hairstyle.
5. Alabama Shakes
Speaking of female vocalists and blues influences, Alabama Shakes songs will speak to your soul on a transcendental level. Their two most popular songs, "Hold On" and "Sound & Color" have led to the group being nominated for and winning several Grammy Awards (and rightfully so IMO). No group is played through my car speakers more when I drive through Alabama on my way from my home in Florida to my school in Tennessee.
