post-punk
music genre
Post-punk is a sonic landscape drenched in tension and experimentation, where jagged guitar riffs intertwine with deep, pulsing bass lines. It balances a disquieting energy with an intellectual edge, often embracing both rhythm and melody in unexpected ways. Vocals can shift from hauntingly melodic to sardonic or spoken word, reflecting a sense of urgency and introspection. The result is music that feels raw yet sophisticated, capable of conveying everything from existential dread to joyous rebellion.
Emerging in the late 1970s as a reaction against the polished excesses of mainstream rock, post-punk found its footing in cities like London and New York. Bands like Joy Division captured the angst of a generation with their atmospheric soundscapes, while groups such as Talking Heads infused art-school sensibilities into their infectious grooves. The genre was also heavily influenced by reggae and funk, creating a tapestry of sounds that was as diverse as it was innovative. Albums like "Unknown Pleasures" by Joy Division and "Remain in Light" by Talking Heads became touchstones, pushing boundaries and paving the way for future musicians.
For those looking to delve into post-punk, start with Joy Division's "Closer," an album that encapsulates both beauty and despair. Gang of Four’s "Entertainment!" offers sharp political commentary wrapped in danceable rhythms. Don't miss out on The Cure's "Seventeen Seconds," which showcases their more atmospheric side. Finally, check out the debut album by Siouxsie and the Banshees, "The Scream," for its darkly alluring sound that helped define the genre. If you're intrigued, you might also find yourself exploring the enchanting world of new wave and darkwave.
605 artists in the catalog.
Guides for post-punk artists
Top post-punk albums
See essentials
All post-punk artists
Peter Hook
alternative rock, electropop
Glorium
Department S
Wild Flag
indie rock
The Pandoras
garage rock
Ist Ist
alternative rock, new wave
Sétima Legião
rock music
The Wolfmen
Yseult
French contemporary R&B, French pop
Kælan Mikla
art punk, dark wave
Pile
indie rock
Rowland S. Howard
Bambara
Sacred Paws
indie pop, indie rock
Love of Diagrams
Brutalismus 3000
electronic music, techno
About post-punk
What is post-punk?
music genre
Where should I start with post-punk?
Start with "Banga" by Patti Smith. It captures what makes post-punk worth exploring.
What are the best post-punk albums?
The post-punk albums worth hearing first: "Banga" by Patti Smith, "Trampin'" by Patti Smith, "Dream of Life" by Patti Smith, "Gone Again" by Patti Smith and "Gung Ho" by Patti Smith.
How many post-punk artists are there?
northsound.fm covers 605 post-punk artists, each with a recommended starting album and listening path.