The Modern Lovers are a quintessential band in the proto-punk genre, blending raw energy with a minimalist approach to rock. If you love their sound, you’ll definitely want to explore these 13 bands and artists that capture a similar vibe. Each entry includes a link to a YouTube search so you can dive right in and start listening.
1. The Velvet Underground
Often cited as a major influence on The Modern Lovers, The Velvet Underground pioneered the use of experimental sounds and avant-garde lyrics. Their debut album, The Velvet Underground & Nico, is a must-listen, featuring classics like “Heroin” and “I’m Waiting for the Man.”
2. Television
Television brought an art-rock sensibility to the proto-punk scene with their intricate guitar work and poetic lyrics. Their debut album, Marquee Moon, is a landmark in the genre, featuring the epic title track and “See No Evil.”
3. Richard Hell & The Voidoids
Richard Hell & The Voidoids were fronted by one of the original punk rockers, Richard Hell. Their debut album, Blank Generation, includes the iconic title track and “Love Comes in Spurts,” both essential listening for any proto-punk fan.
4. Pere Ubu
Pere Ubu mixed punk rock with avant-garde influences, creating a unique sound that stands out in the proto-punk genre. Their debut album, The Modern Dance, features standout tracks like “Non-Alignment Pact” and “Final Solution.”
5. New York Dolls
New York Dolls combined glam rock aesthetics with punk rock energy, making them a key influence on the genre. Their self-titled debut album includes hits like “Personality Crisis” and “Trash.”
6. Iggy Pop & The Stooges
Iggy Pop & The Stooges are often credited with laying the groundwork for punk rock with their aggressive sound and wild performances. Albums like Raw Power and songs such as “Search and Destroy” are essential listening.
7. The Feelies
The Feelies brought a jangly, melodic approach to the proto-punk sound. Their debut album, Crazy Rhythms, is a cult classic featuring tracks like “Fa Cé-La” and “Crazy Rhythms.”
8. Suicide
Suicide were pioneers of electronic proto-punk, blending minimalist synths with dark, intense vocals. Their self-titled debut album includes the haunting “Frankie Teardrop” and “Ghost Rider.”
9. Wire
Wire brought an art-punk edge to the proto-punk scene with their innovative approach to song structure and sound. Their debut album, Pink Flag, features short, sharp tracks like “Ex-Lion Tamer” and “12XU.”
10. The Saints
The Saints were one of the first punk bands to emerge from Australia, combining raw energy with catchy melodies. Their debut album, (I’m) Stranded, includes the anthemic title track and “Erotic Neurotic.”
11. Buzzcocks
Buzzcocks are known for their catchy, pop-infused take on punk rock. Their compilation album, Singles Going Steady, is packed with hits like “Ever Fallen in Love (With Someone You Shouldn’t’ve)” and “What Do I Get?”
12. Talking Heads
Talking Heads blended punk rock with art-rock and new wave influences, creating a sound that was both innovative and accessible. Their album 77 includes classics like “Psycho Killer” and “Uh-Oh, Love Comes to Town.”
13. The Jam
The Jam brought a mod revivalist twist to the punk scene with their sharp lyrics and energetic performances. Albums like In the City and songs such as “Town Called Malice” are essential for any fan of the genre.
Explore these bands and artists to deepen your appreciation for the proto-punk genre and discover some new favorites along the way!
