If you’re a fan of post-punk music, then you’re likely familiar with The Sound. Their unique blend of melancholic melodies and powerful lyrics has garnered them a dedicated following. If you’re looking to explore more artists with a similar vibe, here are 18 bands and musicians you should check out. Sound(band’>Discover more about The Sound).
1. Joy Division
Joy Division is one of the most influential bands in the post-punk genre. Their dark and atmospheric sound is best showcased in songs like “Love Will Tear Us Apart” and albums such as Unknown Pleasures and Closer.
2. Echo & the Bunnymen
Echo & the Bunnymen are renowned for their haunting melodies and introspective lyrics. Key tracks include “The Killing Moon” and “Lips Like Sugar,” with albums like Ocean Rain being essential listens.
3. The Chameleons
The Chameleons are known for their lush, atmospheric soundscapes. Their album Script of the Bridge is a must-hear, featuring standout tracks like “Second Skin” and “Up the Down Escalator.”
4. The Cure
The Cure have a diverse discography that spans from dark, gothic tones to upbeat pop. Popular songs include “Just Like Heaven” and “Lovesong,” with albums like Disintegration being fan favorites.
5. Siouxsie and the Banshees
Siouxsie and the Banshees are pioneers in the post-punk and gothic rock scenes. Tracks like “Spellbound” and “Hong Kong Garden” from albums such as Juju are essential listening.
6. Gang of Four
Gang of Four combine post-punk with a sharp, political edge. Songs like “Damaged Goods” and “I Love a Man in a Uniform” from the album Entertainment! are particularly notable.
7. Wire
Wire’s minimalist and experimental approach has made them a key influence in post-punk. Albums like Pink Flag and tracks such as “Outdoor Miner” are great starting points.
8. Magazine
Magazine offer a sophisticated take on post-punk with their complex arrangements and sharp lyrics. Key songs include “Shot By Both Sides” and “A Song from Under the Floorboards,” particularly from the album Real Life.
9. Bauhaus
Bauhaus are often credited with helping to shape the gothic rock genre. Their iconic track “Bela Lugosi’s Dead” and albums like In the Flat Field are essential for any fan.
10. Public Image Ltd
Public Image Ltd, fronted by John Lydon of the Sex Pistols, offer a more avant-garde take on post-punk. Albums like Metal Box and tracks such as “Public Image” are standout examples.
11. Killing Joke
Killing Joke blend post-punk with industrial and metal influences. Songs like “Love Like Blood” and “Eighties” from albums such as Night Time are particularly influential.
12. The Psychedelic Furs
The Psychedelic Furs combine post-punk with a touch of new wave. Popular tracks include “Love My Way” and “Pretty in Pink,” with albums like Talk Talk Talk being fan favorites.
13. The Teardrop Explodes
The Teardrop Explodes are known for their psychedelic take on post-punk. Key songs like “Reward” and albums such as Kilimanjaro showcase their unique sound.
14. The Fall
The Fall, led by the enigmatic Mark E. Smith, are known for their prolific output and distinctive sound. Albums like Hex Enduction Hour and tracks such as “Totally Wired” are essential.
15. The Mission
The Mission (known as The Mission UK in the United States) are a key band in the gothic rock and post-punk scenes. Songs like “Wasteland” and “Severina” from the album God’s Own Medicine are highlights.
16. The Jesus and Mary Chain
The Jesus and Mary Chain blend post-punk with shoegaze and noise pop elements. Tracks like “Just Like Honey” and albums such as Psychocandy are particularly influential.
17. Cocteau Twins
Cocteau Twins are known for their ethereal sound and unique vocal style. Albums like Heaven or Las Vegas and tracks such as “Cherry-Coloured Funk” are great examples of their work.
18. The Church
The Church offer a dreamy, jangly take on post-punk. Songs like “Under the Milky Way” and albums such as Starfish are essential listens for fans of the genre.
