The best New Wave albums
of the 1990s.
Where to start with 1990–1999 new wave — with a one-line read on why each one matters.
Top of the 1990s — new wave
Top picks from 1990–1999, ranked by where we would start.
Depeche Mode
Songs of Faith and Devotion
A haunting blend of electronic textures and gospel-inspired vocals, expressing both despair and transcendence.
Start here
Depeche Mode
Ultra
A haunting blend of electronic textures and introspective lyrics that explores themes of loss and renewal.
Start here
Sting
The Soul Cages
A contemplative blend of jazz-inflected pop and brooding rock, steeped in themes of loss and redemption.
Start here
Sting
Mercury Falling
A fusion of introspective lyrics and lush melodies, blending elements of pop, jazz, and world music seamlessly.
Start here
Erasure
Cowboy
An exploration of synth-pop drenched in introspective lyrics and vibrant melodies, embodying a blend of nostalgia and contemporary themes.
Start here
Erasure
Erasure
A vibrant blend of synth-pop and new wave, shimmering with infectious melodies and heartfelt lyrics.
Start here
The Cure
Wish
A lush blend of soaring melodies and melancholic atmospheres wrapped in the band's signature gothic rock aesthetic.
Start here
The Cure
Wild Mood Swings
A kaleidoscopic blend of jubilant pop and introspective gloom, capturing the emotional spectrum of the human experience.
Start here
Pet Shop Boys
Nightlife
A vibrant blend of synth-pop and house music that captures the essence of nightlife with its pulsating rhythms and introspective lyrics.
Start here
Pet Shop Boys
Bilingual
A vibrant blend of synth-pop and dance, filled with infectious grooves and introspective lyrics that reflect on life and love.
Start here
INXS
X
A vibrant fusion of rock, funk, and dance beats, showcasing the band's dynamic energy and melodic prowess.
Start here
INXS
Full Moon, Dirty Hearts
A vibrant blend of alternative rock and funk, pulsating with rhythmic energy and introspective lyrics.
Start here
Squeeze
Domino
A vibrant blend of melodic hooks and clever lyrics that encapsulate the essence of late '90s British pop-rock.
Start here
Squeeze
Ridiculous
Bright melodies intertwine with clever lyrics, marking Squeeze's signature blend of pop sensibility and new wave energy.
Start here
Bananarama
Ultra Violet
A vibrant blend of dance-pop and new wave, infused with catchy hooks and infectious rhythms.
Start here
Bananarama
Pop Life
A vibrant blend of dance-pop and new wave infused with playful lyrics and infectious melodies.
Start here
Billy Idol
Charmed Life
A vibrant blend of hard rock grit and danceable new wave energy, laced with Idol's signature swagger and charisma.
Start here
Billy Idol
Cyberpunk
A fusion of gritty rock and electronic elements, creating a dystopian soundscape reflecting the anxieties of the early '90s.
Start here
Madness
Wonderful
A vibrant blend of ska, pop, and new wave that captures the exuberance of late 90s British music.
Start here
Simple Minds
Real Life
A shimmering blend of synth-driven melodies and emotive vocals, showcasing the band's signature art rock style.
Start here
Simple Minds
Good News from the Next World
A rich tapestry of atmospheric synths and soaring vocals, bridging the gap between arena rock and new wave sensibilities.
Start here
The Damned
Not of This Earth
A kaleidoscopic blend of punk energy and gothic atmospheres, echoing the band’s eclectic influences and experimental tendencies.
Start here
Cyndi Lauper
Hat Full of Stars
A vibrant blend of introspective ballads and upbeat pop anthems reflecting personal growth and emotional resilience.
Start here
Cyndi Lauper
Merry Christmas... Have a Nice Life
Playful arrangements blend pop sensibilities with festive cheer, showcasing Lauper's distinctive vocal flair on holiday classics.
Start here