If you’re a fan of The Psychedelic Furs and their unique blend of post-punk and new wave sound, you’re in for a treat. This genre has a rich history with many bands that share a similar vibe. Below, you’ll find a list of 18 bands and artists that capture that same essence.
1. Echo & the Bunnymen
Echo & the Bunnymen, known for their atmospheric sound, rose to fame with hits like “The Killing Moon” and “Lips Like Sugar.” Their album Ocean Rain is often hailed as a masterpiece in the post-punk genre.
2. The Cure
The Cure has been a staple in the post-punk and gothic rock scenes since the late 1970s. With iconic songs like “Just Like Heaven” and “Boys Don’t Cry,” their albums Disintegration and Pornography are must-listens.
3. Joy Division
Joy Division’s dark, moody sound has influenced countless bands. Tracks like “Love Will Tear Us Apart” and “Disorder” from their albums Unknown Pleasures and Closer are essential listening for any post-punk fan.
4. The Smiths
The Smiths, led by Morrissey and Johnny Marr, brought a jangly guitar sound to the post-punk genre. Songs like “There Is a Light That Never Goes Out” and “How Soon Is Now?” are timeless classics.
5. Siouxsie and the Banshees
Siouxsie and the Banshees are pioneers of the gothic rock and post-punk scenes. Their hits “Hong Kong Garden” and “Spellbound” from albums like Juju and Kaleidoscope showcase their unique style.
6. New Order
Formed by the remaining members of Joy Division, New Order fused post-punk with electronic dance music. Tracks like “Blue Monday” and “Bizarre Love Triangle” from albums Power, Corruption & Lies and Technique are standout hits.
7. Bauhaus
Bauhaus is often credited with creating the gothic rock genre. Their song “Bela Lugosi’s Dead” and albums like In the Flat Field are quintessential listens for fans of dark, atmospheric music.
8. The Chameleons
The Chameleons are known for their lush, guitar-driven sound. Their album Script of the Bridge features standout tracks like “Second Skin” and “Up the Down Escalator.”
9. Depeche Mode
Depeche Mode started with a synth-pop sound before evolving into a darker, more complex band. Hits like “Enjoy the Silence” and “Personal Jesus” from albums Violator and Music for the Masses are iconic.
10. The Jesus and Mary Chain
The Jesus and Mary Chain are known for their noisy, feedback-laden sound. Songs like “Just Like Honey” and “April Skies” from albums Psychocandy and Darklands are essential tracks.
11. The Church
The Church gained international fame with their hit “Under the Milky Way.” Their album Starfish is a great starting point for new listeners.
12. The Teardrop Explodes
Led by Julian Cope, The Teardrop Explodes had a brief but impactful career. Their album Kilimanjaro features the hit “Reward.”
13. A Flock of Seagulls
A Flock of Seagulls are best known for their hit “I Ran (So Far Away).” Their self-titled debut album is a classic of the new wave genre.
14. The Soft Boys
The Soft Boys, led by Robyn Hitchcock, are known for their psychedelic and post-punk sound. Their album Underwater Moonlight includes the standout track “I Wanna Destroy You.”
15. Gang of Four
Gang of Four combined punk rock with funk and political lyrics. Their album Entertainment! features the influential track “Damaged Goods.”
16. The Fall
The Fall, led by the enigmatic Mark E. Smith, had a prolific career. Albums like Hex Enduction Hour and songs like “Totally Wired” are essential listening.
17. The Mission
The Mission, formed by former members of The Sisters of Mercy, are known for their gothic rock sound. Tracks like “Wasteland” and “Severina” from their album God’s Own Medicine are fan favorites.
18. Love and Rockets
Love and Rockets, formed by members of Bauhaus, blended post-punk with alternative rock. Their hit “So Alive” and albums like Express are great examples of their sound.
Explore these bands and dive deeper into the rich, atmospheric world of post-punk and new wave music.
