Essential synth-punk listening

The albums that define synth-punk.

Our picks for where to start with synth-punk — with a one-line read on why each one matters.

The synth-punk essentials

Twenty-four picks. Press play on any of them.

Whomp That Sucker

Sparks

Whomp That Sucker

A playful blend of art rock and new wave, infused with quirky lyrics and vibrant synthesizers.

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Terminal Jive

Sparks

Terminal Jive

A fusion of disco rhythms and art rock sensibilities with a playful, ironic edge.

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Now Is the Time!

Polysics

Now Is the Time!

Frenetic synth-punk energy collides with playful melodies and a distinctly Japanese flair.

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Hey! Bob! My Friend!

Polysics

Hey! Bob! My Friend!

A frenetic blend of synth-driven melodies and punk energy, bursting with playful exuberance and eclectic charm.

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Exmilitary

Death Grips

Exmilitary

A chaotic fusion of industrial noise and aggressive lyricism that defies conventional hip-hop boundaries.

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No Love Deep Web

Death Grips

No Love Deep Web

A chaotic blend of aggressive beats and unsettling lyrics that challenge genre boundaries and listener comfort.

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Alice Practice

Crystal Castles

Alice Practice

A chaotic blend of distorted synths and haunting vocals that redefine experimental soundscapes.

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III

Crystal Castles

III

A haunting blend of glitchy electronics and ethereal vocals that evokes a sense of unsettling beauty.

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Romborama

The Bloody Beetroots

Romborama

A frenetic blend of electronic beats and punk energy that ignites dance floors with relentless intensity.

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22 Jump Street – Original Motion Picture Score

Mark Mothersbaugh

22 Jump Street – Original Motion Picture Score

A vibrant mix of playful synths and dynamic orchestration that enhances comedic moments in film.

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Fünfzehn neue D.A.F.-Lieder

D.A.F.

Fünfzehn neue D.A.F.-Lieder

Pulsating synths and provocative lyrics intertwine to create a raw and energetic soundscape.

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Alles Ist Gut

D.A.F.

Alles Ist Gut

An exhilarating blend of mechanical beats and provocative lyrics that encapsulate the spirit of early synth-punk.

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Devotion

Kap Bambino

Devotion

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Adjacent sounds