Sonic Youth is an American rock band from New York City. The band was formed in 1981. In the beginning of their career, the band was associated with the underground art and music scene in New York City, No Wave. Sonic Youth was part of the first wave of American noise rock groups, but made their own interpretation of hardcore punk sound. Critics consider Sonic Youth as an important element in the rise of indie rock movements. The band members are: Thurston Moore (guitar and vocals), Kim Gordon (bass, vocals, and guitar), Lee Ranaldo (guitar and vocals), Steve Shelley (drums), and Mark Ibold (guitar and bass).