Classic post-punk hits from Western music: a roundup of popular tracks you should listen to first
Post-punk, which emerged from the late 1970s to the early 1980s, is a major movement in Western music that inherited the spirit of punk rock while pursuing experimental and innovative sounds.
Characterized by a dark, melancholic atmosphere, highly artistic musicianship, and lyrics with sharp social insight, the genre has continued to exert a strong influence on contemporary bands across generations.
The word “punk” alone might surprise some listeners, but in this article we introduce classic post-punk anthems—beloved by passionate fans in Japan as well—and highlight the revival boom that has occurred since the 2000s.
Beginners are welcome to dive in!
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Classic post-punk masterpieces from Western music: a roundup of must-listen popular tracks (31–40)
Feed the EnemyMagazine
Magazine is an English band formed around Howard Devoto and John McGeoch.
“Feed the Enemy” is included on their second album, Secondhand Daylight, released in 1979.
London LadyThe Stranglers
The Stranglers are an English band formed in 1974 around Hugh Cornwell, and they have continued to perform even after Cornwell left in 1990.
“London Lady” is a track from their 1977 album Rattus Norvegicus.
The Frozen OnesUltravox
Ultravox are a British band formed in 1975 around John Foxx.
“The Frozen Ones” is included on their second album, HA! HA! HA!, released in 1977.
SomeoneSimple Minds
Simple Minds is a Scottish band formed in 1977.
“Someone” is a track included on their debut album, Life in a Day, released in 1979.
The album reached number 30 on the UK Albums Chart.
Tainted LoveSoft Cell
Soft Cell is a musical duo consisting of Marc Almond and Dave Ball, formed in 1978.
Their 1981 release “Tainted Love,” a cover of Gloria Jones’s song, reached number one on the UK Singles Chart.