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 popular tracks you should listen to first (11–20)
Totally WiredThe Fall
This is a signature track released in 1980 by The Fall, a post-punk band from England.
The biting vocals of Mark E.
Smith, the group’s sole original member, radiate a fierce individuality.
The sound woven from the repetitive guitar riff and the muscular bassline is pure, nerve-tingling tension.
The lyric shouting “Totally wired” feels like a cry of the heart, brimming with rebellion against society and an inescapable sense of restlessness.
The story of BBC DJ John Peel’s fervent support also hints at the song’s irresistible appeal.
It’s a cult favorite you’ll want to play when you need to unleash the impulse you’ve kept inside.
Arrogance Gave Him UpThe Associates
Associates was a Scottish band formed by Billy Mackenzie and Alan Rankine, debuting in 1979.
“Arrogance Gave Him Up” is a track from their third album, Sulk, released in 1982.
Sunday Bloody SundayU2
U2 is an Irish band that debuted in 1980 and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2005.
“Sunday Bloody Sunday” is a track from their 1983 album War, which reached number one on the UK charts.
This Is EntertainmentCabaret Voltaire
Cabaret Voltaire is a British band formed in 1973, and the band’s name comes from a cabaret in Zurich, Switzerland.
“This Is Entertainment” is a track included on the 1980 album The Voice of America.
Stay HereSwans
Swans is an American band formed around singer-songwriter Michael Gira.
They disbanded in 1997 but reunited in 2010.
“Stay Here” is a track from their 1983 album Filth.
How Many Years Too SoonCHROME
Chrome is an American band formed in 1976, centered around Damon Edge.
“How Many Years Too Soon” is included on their debut album, “The Visitation,” released in 1977.
Classic post-punk songs from the West: a roundup of must-hear popular tracks (21–30)
Love Will Tear Us ApartJoy Division
Joy Division was a British band formed in 1976 that disbanded in 1980 following the death of vocalist Ian Curtis.
“Love Will Tear Us Apart” is one of their signature songs and reached No.
13 on the UK Singles Chart.