The North and South Divide

Within the indie genre, there is somewhat of a divide between bands and artists from the north and bands and artists from the south.

Bands from the north tend to still adhere to early conventions of the genre; they have a clearly confident manner and often embody the working-class.

In this picture of Oasis, the assured masculine poses convey confidence, almost 'swagger'. The sunglasses, traditionally fitting jeans, and the thumbs inserted into the front pockets of the jeans accentuate their masculinity.

In this picture, the working-class roots of the band are signified by the setting; large, monolithic buildings tower over them in the background and the sky is a murky grey. Additionally, the fact it is black and white adds to the murky working-class feel.

In this picture, black and white is again used to accentuate the tall buildings and crowded city area behind them as part of their working-class surroundings. Ian Brown's pose displays his confidence and 'swagger' - he is leaning towards the camera and looking directly into it, suggesting he is confrontational, again conveying the working-class roots of the band.

However, bands from the south tend to be considerably less masculine; characterised, instead, by fragility and artistry.

In this picture of The Horrors, the setting and colours are very natural and romantic, conveying a sense of artistry. Furthermore, although most of the band members are looking towards the camera, their gazes and body language signify awkwardness.

This picture of Bombay Bicycle Club is in black and white. But, instead of signifying working-class roots, it signifies melancholia. This is because the gazes of the band members are rather pensive, slightly glum, and aimed away from the camera. This again helps to establish an awkwardness, as well the stereotype of 'indie' people as 'outsiders'.