Exploring the Synthpop Universe: Bands and Artists Like Soft Cell

Synthpop, with its catchy melodies and electronic beats, has given us some unforgettable music. If you’re a fan of Soft Cell, you’ll definitely want to check out these 19 bands and artists that capture a similar vibe. Dive into this list and discover new tunes that will keep your playlist fresh and exciting!

1. Depeche Mode

query=Depeche+Mode’>https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=Depeche+Mode

Depeche Mode is one of the most iconic bands in the synthpop genre. Their hits like “Enjoy the Silence” and “Personal Jesus” have left a lasting impact on music lovers. Albums such as Violator and Music for the Masses are essential listens.

2. New Order

query=New+Order’>https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=New+Order

Emerging from the ashes of Joy Division, New Order combined post-punk with synthpop to create a unique sound. Tracks like “Blue Monday” and “Bizarre Love Triangle” are classics. Their album Power, Corruption & Lies is a must-hear.

3. Erasure

query=Erasure’>https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=Erasure

Erasure is known for their infectious synthpop hits like “A Little Respect” and “Always.” Their energetic and melodic style is showcased in albums like The Innocents and Wild!. They continue to be a significant influence in the genre.

4. Pet Shop Boys

query=Pet+Shop+Boys’>https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=Pet+Shop+Boys

The Pet Shop Boys have been a staple in the synthpop scene with their sophisticated sound. Songs like “West End Girls” and “It’s a Sin” are timeless. Albums such as Actually and Behaviour highlight their innovative approach.

5. OMD (Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark)

query=OMD’>https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=OMD

OMD blends synthpop with new wave, creating memorable tracks like “If You Leave” and “Enola Gay.” Their album Architecture & Morality is a standout in their discography. They have a knack for combining catchy tunes with thought-provoking lyrics.

6. Yazoo

query=Yazoo’>https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=Yazoo

Yazoo, also known as Yaz in the US, was a short-lived but highly influential synthpop duo. Hits like “Don’t Go” and “Only You” are perfect examples of their sound. Their albums Upstairs at Eric’s and You and Me Both are essential listens.

7. Human League

query=Human+League’>https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=Human+League

The Human League achieved massive success with their synthpop sound, especially with the hit “Don’t You Want Me.” Albums like Dare and Hysteria are filled with catchy, danceable tracks. They remain a significant influence in the genre.

8. A Flock of Seagulls

query=A+Flock+of+Seagulls’>https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=A+Flock+of+Seagulls

Best known for their hit “I Ran (So Far Away),” A Flock of Seagulls brought a unique style to synthpop. Their self-titled debut album and Listen are packed with energetic, synth-driven tracks. Their music continues to resonate with fans of the genre.

9. Visage

query=Visage’>https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=Visage

Visage is best known for their hit “Fade to Grey,” a quintessential synthpop track. Their self-titled debut album is a masterpiece of the genre. They successfully blended electronic music with a touch of glam.

10. Ultravox

query=Ultravox’>https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=Ultravox

Ultravox, led by Midge Ure, created some of the most atmospheric synthpop music of the 80s. Songs like “Vienna” and “Dancing with Tears in My Eyes” are classics. Albums such as Vienna and Rage in Eden are essential for any synthpop fan.

11. Heaven 17

query=Heaven+17’>https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=Heaven+17

Heaven 17 emerged from the early 80s synthpop scene with hits like “Temptation” and “Let Me Go.” Their debut album Penthouse and Pavement is a standout, blending electronic music with political themes. They continue to influence modern synthpop artists.

12. Blancmange

query=Blancmange’>https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=Blancmange

Blancmange brought a quirky and eclectic style to synthpop with hits like “Living on the Ceiling” and “Blind Vision.” Their albums Happy Families and Mange Tout are filled with innovative and catchy tracks. They remain a cult favorite among synthpop enthusiasts.

13. Alphaville

query=Alphaville’>https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=Alphaville

Alphaville gained international fame with their hit “Forever Young,” a synthpop anthem. Their debut album Forever Young is a classic, featuring other hits like “Big in Japan.” Their music continues to be celebrated for its emotive and melodic qualities.

14. Tears for Fears

query=Tears+for+Fears’>https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=Tears+for+Fears

Tears for Fears are known for their emotionally charged synthpop hits like “Shout” and “Everybody Wants to Rule the World.” Albums like Songs from the Big Chair and The Hurting showcase their ability to blend pop sensibilities with deep, introspective lyrics.

15. Eurythmics

query=Eurythmics’>https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=Eurythmics

Eurythmics, fronted by Annie Lennox and Dave Stewart, created some of the most memorable synthpop hits of the 80s. Songs like “Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)” and “Here Comes the Rain Again” are timeless. Albums such as Sweet Dreams and Touch are essential listens.

16. Gary Numan

query=Gary+Numan’>https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=Gary+Numan

Gary Numan is a pioneer of electronic music, with hits like “Cars” and “Are ‘Friends’ Electric?” His album The Pleasure Principle is a landmark in the genre. Numan’s innovative use of synthesizers has influenced countless artists.

17. Talk Talk

query=Talk+Talk’>https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=Talk+Talk

Talk Talk started as a synthpop band with hits like “It’s My Life” and “Such a Shame.” Their albums The Colour of Spring and Spirit of Eden show their evolution into a more experimental sound. They remain a highly respected and influential band.

18. The Cure

query=The+Cure’>https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=The+Cure

While primarily known as a gothic rock band, The Cure has produced some iconic synthpop tracks like “Just Like Heaven” and “Close to Me.” Albums like Disintegration and Kiss Me, Kiss Me, Kiss Me showcase their versatility. Their influence spans multiple genres.

19. Japan

query=Japan’>https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=Japan

Japan, led by David Sylvian, created a sophisticated and atmospheric synthpop sound. Hits like “Ghosts” and “Quiet Life” are standout tracks. Their albums Tin Drum and Gentlemen Take Polaroids are essential listens for any synthpop fan.

Explore these artists and expand your synthpop horizons! Each brings a unique flavor to the genre, ensuring there’s something for every fan of electronic music.