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.
602 artists in the catalog.
Guides for post-punk artists
Top post-punk albums
See essentials
All post-punk artists
Nike Borzov
Britpop, alternative rock
Firehose
alternative rock, hardcore punk
Die Goldenen Zitronen
alternative rock, hip-hop
She Past Away
dark wave, gothic rock
Jaz Coleman
Play Dead
gothic rock
Dolphin
alternative hip-hop, alternative rock
Las Kellies
Blixa Bargeld
experimental music, noise music
The Intelligence
Patricio Rey y sus Redonditos de Ricota
blues rock, hard rock
Colin Newman
No Devotion
alternative rock
Fehlfarben
German rock, Neue Deutsche Welle
Maruja
art rock, jazz fusion
Timpuri Noi
alternative rock, blues rock
About post-punk
What is post-punk?
music genre
Where should I start with post-punk?
Start with "Power, Corruption & Lies" by New Order. It captures what makes post-punk worth exploring.
What are the best post-punk albums?
The post-punk albums worth hearing first: "Power, Corruption & Lies" by New Order, "Waiting for the Sirens' Call" by New Order, "B-Sides & Rarities Part II" by Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds, "Skeleton Tree" by Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds and "Soundtracks for the Blind" by Swans.
How many post-punk artists are there?
northsound.fm covers 602 post-punk artists, each with a recommended starting album and listening path.