neofolk
music genre
Neofolk is a rich tapestry of sound where haunting melodies intertwine with earthy acoustic instruments, creating an atmosphere that feels both ancient and modern. Expect to hear the resonance of acoustic guitars, drones, and percussive elements that evoke a sense of mysticism and introspection. Lyrically, it often plunges into themes of nature, folklore, and existentialism, inviting listeners to explore emotional landscapes that are as intimate as they are expansive. The overall energy can shift from somber reflections to moments of passionate intensity, drawing you into a world that feels timeless.
Emerging in the late 1980s and early 1990s, neofolk arose partly in response to the sterile sounds of mainstream music and the disillusionment with modernity. Rooted in the European folk tradition, it found its voice through artists like Death in June and Current 93, who brought poetic lyricism and a strong sense of atmosphere to their work. Albums such as "But, What Ends When the Symbols Shatter?" by Death in June and "Thunder Perfect Mind" by Current 93 defined the genre's early sound, blending folk instrumentation with Industrial influences while often engaging with darker themes and imagery.
If you’re looking to dive into neofolk, start with "The World That Summer" by Death in June for its beautifully haunting melodies. Then move on to "Swastikas for Noddy" by Current 93, which showcases a blend of spoken word and folk elements. Don’t miss "The Inmost Light" by Sol Invictus for its rich arrangements and powerful lyrics. Finally, give a listen to "A Guide for Beginners" by Of the Wand & the Moon for a taste of how contemporary artists are shaping this genre today. From here, you might also find yourself intrigued by dark ambient or post-industrial music—paths well worth wandering down.
94 artists in the catalog.
Guides for neofolk artists
Top neofolk albums
See essentials
All neofolk artists
Current 93
Swans
alternative rock, art rock
Ulver
avant-garde metal, black metal
Aquarium
art rock, bard rock
Omnia
pagan folk
Death in June
folk rock, gothic rock
Sol Invictus
Burzum
National Socialist black metal, black metal
Agalloch
atmospheric black metal, black metal
Sopor Aeternus & the Ensemble of Shadows
Neue Deutsche Todeskunst, dark wave
Wardruna
Nordic folk music, ambient music
Qntal
dark wave, industrial music
Tony Wakeford
Of the Wand & the Moon
Rome
martial industrial
Diane Cluck
anti-folk, freak folk
About neofolk
What is neofolk?
music genre
Where should I start with neofolk?
Start with "Soundtracks for the Blind" by Swans. It captures what makes neofolk worth exploring.
What are the best neofolk albums?
The neofolk albums worth hearing first: "Soundtracks for the Blind" by Swans, "Umskiptar" by Burzum, "Fallen" by Burzum, "Sôl austan, Mâni vestan" by Burzum and "The Ways of Yore" by Burzum.
How many neofolk artists are there?
northsound.fm covers 94 neofolk artists, each with a recommended starting album and listening path.