It can be music that does not sound like mainstream rock or country . This has become even more confusing with `` alternative country artists '' saying that they do not want to be called alternative country , with more mainstream artists saying they are alternative country , and with people saying that older musicians or musicians from the past are alternative country . This already broad labeling has been further confused by alternative country artists disavowing the movement , mainstream artists declaring they are part of it , and retroactive claims that past or veteran musicians are alternative country .