The best Post-Punk albums
of the 1970s.
Where to start with 1970–1979 post-punk — with a one-line read on why each one matters.
Top of the 1970s — post-punk
Top picks from 1970–1979, ranked by where we would start.
The Cure
Three Imaginary Boys
A vibrant mix of jangly guitars and post-punk rhythms, teetering between youthful exuberance and introspective melancholy.
Start here
Iggy Pop
American Caesar
A raw exploration of American life, blending hard rock with introspective lyrics and Iggy's quintessential punk energy.
Start here
Iggy Pop
Kill City
A gritty exploration of urban decay, merging punk energy with a raw, confessional lyricism.
Start here
Blondie
Eat to the Beat
A vibrant fusion of dance-rock and new wave, pulsating with infectious energy and layered melodies.
Start here
Blondie
Parallel Lines
A vibrant fusion of punk energy and disco rhythms, capturing the spirit of late '70s New York City.
Start here
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.
Start here
Siouxsie and the Banshees
Join Hands
A swirling blend of post-punk energy and gothic allure that explores themes of mortality and societal decay.
Start here
Simple Minds
Life in a Day
A vibrant blend of art rock and new wave, brimming with melodic hooks and atmospheric instrumentation.
Start here
Simple Minds
Real to Real Cacophony
A vibrant fusion of post-punk energy and art rock ambition that buzzes with youthful experimentation.
Start here
The Damned
Machine Gun Etiquette
'Machine Gun Etiquette' is pivotal in showcasing how The Damned expanded their sound, introducing gothic rock and new wave elements while still retaining their punk roots. It serves as a cohesive collection that highlights both their energy and thematic depth.
Start here
The Damned
Damned Damned Damned
Raw energy and chaotic melodies collide in a punk manifesto that captures the rebellious spirit of the late '70s.
Start here
U2
Three
Raw post-punk energy combines with melodic hooks and anthemic choruses, showcasing U2's early songwriting prowess.
Start here
Patti Smith
Set Free
An intersection of art rock and punk energy, blending poetic lyricism with raw instrumentation in a captivating sonic journey.
Start here
Patti Smith
Horses
'Horses' is celebrated for its cohesive sound and lyrical depth, offering an insightful look into Smith's artistic vision. It marks the beginning of her journey in rock music while delivering powerful performances that resonate across generations.
Start here
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.
Start here
The Clash
The Clash
Raw, energetic punk rock collides with reggae influences and biting political commentary, creating a fierce debut statement.
Start here
The Police
Reggatta de Blanc
A vibrant blend of reggae rhythms and rock energy, layered with Sting's distinctive vocals and Copeland's dynamic drumming.
Start here
The Police
Outlandos d'Amour
A vibrant fusion of reggae rhythms and post-punk energy, laced with sharp lyrics and catchy melodies.
Start here
Talking Heads
Fear of Music
A frenetic blend of avant-garde rhythms and lyrical surrealism, echoing anxieties of modern life in a post-punk landscape.
Start here
Talking Heads
More Songs About Buildings and Food
A vibrant fusion of art-rock and funk, laced with quirky lyrics and rhythmic experimentation that defines the new wave sound.
Start here
Killing Joke
Turn to Red/Almost Red
A raw fusion of post-punk energy and industrial soundscapes, echoing the chaos of late 1970s Britain.
Start here
Public Image Ltd.
Public Image – First Issue
An experimental collage of sharp rhythms and dissonant melodies that redefine post-punk with a confrontational edge.
Start here
Public Image Ltd.
Metal Box
'Metal Box' stands out due to its bold experimentation and powerful message, illustrating the band's journey from punk roots to more complex soundscapes. Its relentless energy and striking contrasts make it a quintessential introduction to their artistry.
Start here
The Human League
Reproduction
An experimental blend of synthetic textures and haunting melodies that foreshadows the rise of electronic pop in the late '70s.
Start here