Adult Alternative is essentially the softer, more conservative and mature side of alternative music. Artists in this category typically stay away from the teen angst and abrasive sound that characterizes most alternative rock. The genre came shortly after the mainstream break through of alternative rock in the early 90's and acts like Alanis Morrisette, Third Eye Blind and Counting Crows became major commercial forces in modern rock. The styles popularity continued into the 2000's with artists like Coldplay, Snow Patrol and John Mayer dominating the airwaves.