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Boston rock is a regional rock scene centered on Boston, Massachusetts, known for marrying no‑nonsense, blue‑collar hard rock with arty, college‑radio experimentation. The sound ranges from polished arena rock (Boston, Aerosmith) and sleek new wave hooks (The Cars) to angular post‑punk and indie innovations (Mission of Burma, Pixies). A strong university and club infrastructure (The Rat, Paradise, The Channel) fostered tight, hook‑forward songwriting, crisp guitar tones, and rhythmic punch. Lyrically, Boston rock often blends streetwise grit with wry intelligence and romantic fatalism, reflecting both the city’s working‑class roots and academic culture.