The best New Wave albums
of the 1970s.
Where to start with 1970–1979 new wave — with a one-line read on why each one matters.
Top of the 1970s — new wave
Top picks from 1970–1979, ranked by where we would start.
Casiopea
Super Flight
A vibrant fusion of funk rhythms and jazz improvisation layered with melodic hooks and intricate instrumentation.
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Casiopea
Casiopea
Energetic jazz fusion intertwines with funk grooves, creating a vibrant tapestry of melodic improvisation and rhythmic complexity.
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Yoko Ono
Yoko Ono/Plastic Ono Band
Avant-garde experimentation intertwines with raw emotional expression, creating an audacious blend of sound and sentiment.
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Yoko Ono
Approximately Infinite Universe
A kaleidoscopic blend of experimental rock and avant-garde pop that explores complex emotional landscapes.
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The Clash
The Cost of Living E.P.
A vibrant mix of punk energy and reggae rhythms that encapsulates the urgency of late 1970s Britain.
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The Clash
The Clash
Raw, energetic punk rock collides with reggae influences and biting political commentary, creating a fierce debut statement.
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The Stranglers
The Raven
A darkly atmospheric blend of punk energy and eclectic instrumentation creating a hauntingly compelling soundscape.
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The Stranglers
Black and White
'Black and White' features a rich variety of tracks that highlight The Stranglers' ability to merge punk's rawness with sophisticated melodies. It serves as a introduction to their complex yet engaging style.
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Peter Gabriel
Peter Gabriel
A fusion of art rock and worldbeat that showcases Gabriel's eclectic vision and emotive storytelling.
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Peter Gabriel
Peter Gabriel
A fusion of art rock and experimental sounds, blending introspective lyrics with eclectic instrumentation and atmospheric textures.
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Rod Stewart
A Night on the Town
An exuberant blend of rock and pop, characterized by Stewart's distinctive raspy vocals and vibrant arrangements.
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Rod Stewart
Never a Dull Moment
A vibrant blend of rock and rhythm and blues infused with Stewart's unmistakable raspy vocals and lyrical charm.
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Blondie
Eat to the Beat
A vibrant fusion of dance-rock and new wave, pulsating with infectious energy and layered melodies.
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Blondie
Blondie
A vibrant fusion of punk energy and pop sensibility, laced with catchy hooks and experimental flair.
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Siouxsie and the Banshees
The Scream
A visceral blend of post-punk energy and gothic atmosphere, driven by haunting melodies and Siouxsie's distinctive vocal prowess.
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Siouxsie and the Banshees
Join Hands
A swirling blend of post-punk energy and gothic allure that explores themes of mortality and societal decay.
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Grace Jones
Portfolio
A vibrant fusion of disco-infused rhythms and soulful melodies showcasing Grace Jones's distinctive vocal style and theatrical flair.
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Grace Jones
Fame
A bold fusion of disco, new wave, and soul that showcases Jones' theatrical flair and commanding presence.
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The Cure
Three Imaginary Boys
A vibrant mix of jangly guitars and post-punk rhythms, teetering between youthful exuberance and introspective melancholy.
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Squeeze
Cool for Cats
A vibrant blend of new wave energy and witty storytelling wrapped in catchy melodies and sharp arrangements.
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Squeeze
Packet of Three
A vibrant blend of catchy melodies and angular rhythms reflecting the playful side of late 70s new wave.
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Madness
One Step Beyond…
A vibrant blend of ska rhythms and pop melodies, infused with an infectious energy that captures the spirit of late '70s Britain.
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Simple Minds
Life in a Day
A vibrant blend of art rock and new wave, brimming with melodic hooks and atmospheric instrumentation.
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Simple Minds
Real to Real Cacophony
A vibrant fusion of post-punk energy and art rock ambition that buzzes with youthful experimentation.
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