Darkwave

Darkwave is a musical genre that emerged in the late 1970s and early 1980s. It is often categorized as a subgenre of gothic rock and new wave. Darkwave combines elements of electronic music, gothic rock, post-punk, and synth-pop. The genre is characterized by its dark, introspective lyrics and moody instrumentals. The beginnings of Darkwave can be traced back to the early 1980s when a new wave of gothic rock bands emerged in the UK. Bands like Joy Division, Bauhaus, and Siouxsie and the Banshees were at the forefront of this movement. They combined punk rock with atmospheric soundscapes that had a darker, more introspective edge. In 1981, a band called Clan of Xymox (originally known as Xymox) formed in the Netherlands. Their music was heavily influenced by the gothic rock and new wave acts in the UK. However, they added a layer of electronic instrumentation to their sound. This electronic influence was crucial in the development of Darkwave. Clan of Xymox released their self-titled debut album in 1985, which is considered a landmark album in the Darkwave genre. Another band that played a critical role in the development of Darkwave was the British band, Dead Can Dance. They formed in 1981 and combined elements of world music with gothic rock and post-punk influences. Their early material had a raw, experimental edge that set them apart from other bands in the UK. Dead Can Dance's 1984 album, Spleen and Ideal, was an important release in the development of Darkwave. One of the most prominent Darkwave bands in the US was Black Tape for a Blue Girl. The band formed in 1986 and was fronted by Sam Rosenthal. They combined dark, introspective lyrics with ethereal vocals and sweeping, cinematic instrumentals. Black Tape for a Blue Girl released some of the most influential albums in the Darkwave genre, including 1996's Remnants of a Deeper Purity. As the 1990s progressed, Darkwave became more diverse and experimental. The genre began to incorporate elements of industrial and ambient music. This led to the emergence of new subgenres, such as dark ambient and neoclassical darkwave. Bands like Arcana, In the Nursery, and Lycia further pushed the boundaries of the genre. Today, Darkwave remains a thriving genre with a dedicated fanbase. The genre has continued to evolve and incorporate new influences. Some modern Darkwave bands, like Drab Majesty and The Black Queen, incorporate elements of synth-pop and post-punk into their sound. Other bands, like Chelsea Wolfe and Zola Jesus, take a more experimental approach to the genre. Despite its evolution, Darkwave remains a unique and introspective genre that continues to inspire listeners and musicians alike.

Clan of Xymox: This Dutch band formed in the early 1980s and has been a staple in the darkwave scene ever since. Their synthesizer-heavy sound mixes gothic rock with post-punk and new wave elements, resulting in an atmospheric and melancholic sound. The Sisters of Mercy: Originating from Leeds, England, The Sisters of Mercy formed in the mid-80s and quickly became one of the most influential bands in the gothic rock and darkwave genres. Their sound often features heavy use of electronic instrumentation and a theatrical, dramatic style. Depeche Mode: While their music is sometimes classified as synth-pop, Depeche Mode's dark lyrics and moody soundscapes have solidified their place in the darkwave genre. They've been making music since the late 70s and have crossed over into the mainstream, earning a legion of dedicated fans. Siouxsie and the Banshees: Led by the iconic Siouxsie Sioux, this English band was formed in the mid-70s and is often credited with influencing a wide range of genres, including post-punk, gothic rock, and darkwave. Their sound is a mix of punk energy and eerie, atmospheric instrumentation. Joy Division: Widely considered one of the most important bands in the post-punk movement, Joy Division's dark lyrics and moody sound have influenced countless artists in the darkwave genre. Their tragically short career ended with the suicide of frontman Ian Curtis, but their influence lives on. The Cure: This British band has been active since the late 70s and has explored a wide range of sounds over the course of their career. Their early albums, in particular, helped define the gothic rock and darkwave genres with their moody, introspective soundscapes. Cocteau Twins: Known for their ethereal, dreamlike soundscapes, Cocteau Twins were a Scottish band active from the late 70s up until the 90s. Their heavily processed instrumentation and Liz Fraser's angelic vocals created a sound that was truly unique and influential. Dead Can Dance: This Australian band, formed in the 80s, mixes traditional instrumentation with atmospheric electronic sounds to create a rich, otherworldly sound. Their music has explored a wide range of cultures and historical periods, resulting in an incredibly diverse and immersive discography. Bauhaus: Often categorized as one of the first gothic rock bands, Bauhaus was formed in England in the late 70s and left an indelible mark on the darkwave genre. Their dark, theatrical sound and Peter Murphy's distinctive vocals helped create a sound that was both foreboding and captivating. The Birthday Massacre: A Canadian band formed in the early 2000s, The Birthday Massacre combines anthemic, synth-heavy arrangements with heavy rock guitars and emotive vocals. Their music often explores themes of darkness and introspection, offering a modern take on the darkwave genre's classic sound.

1. "Severance" by Dead Can Dance 2. "Dawnrazor" by Fields of the Nephilim 3. "The Nephilim" by Fields of the Nephilim 4. "Floodland" by The Sisters of Mercy 5. "Vision Thing" by The Sisters of Mercy 6. "A Slight Case of Overbombing" by The Sisters of Mercy 7. "The First Chapter" by The Mission 8. "God's Own Medicine" by The Mission 9. "Children" by The Mission 10. "Songs from the Victorious City" by Anne Clark and David Harrow 11. "Underneath the Veil" by Lycia 12. "The Cure" by The Cure 13. "Pornography" by The Cure 14. "Disintegration" by The Cure 15. "Faith" by The Cure 16. "Bloodletting" by Concrete Blonde 17. "Wish" by The Cure 18. "Heaven or Las Vegas" by Cocteau Twins 19. "Treasure" by Cocteau Twins 20. "Love's Secret Domain" by Coil 21. "Dreamtime" by The Cult 22. "Electric" by The Cult 23. "The Sky's Gone Out" by Bauhaus 24. "In the Flat Field" by Bauhaus 25. "Mask" by Bauhaus

In his book "Rip It Up and Start Again: Postpunk 1978-1984," Simon Reynolds refers to Darkwave as one of the few subgenres to have grown out of the post-punk movements of the 1980s. He writes that "the first wave of Darkwave bands shared punk's DIY spirit and industrial-provocation tendencies, but they went beyond punk's blues/garage roots to embrace a wider range of sonic techniques." Another writer who has explored Darkwave is Andi Harriman, author of the book "Some Wear Leather, Some Wear Lace: A Worldwide Compendium of Postpunk and Goth in the 1980s." In an interview with Vice, Harriman explains that "Darkwave was very much about the synthesizer, and about creating a darker, more ethereal and atmospheric sound. The music conjured up a certain otherworldliness that was very appealing to a lot of people." Meanwhile, music critic Ned Raggett offered his thoughts on what sets Darkwave apart from other genres. In an article for the Quietus, he writes that "Darkwave is a genre in which the ability to create a mood, an atmosphere, an entire world has always been paramount. It is a musical approach where every detail counts, whether it's the precise timbre of a drum hit, the swirling wash of a synth chord, or the subtleties of a vocalist's delivery." One of the most renowned Darkwave bands is Clan of Xymox, who have been around since the 1980s. In an interview with Echoes and Dust, frontman Ronald Moor explains the appeal of their music: "People like to get lost in the emotions, the moment, and the sound. It's dark but it's also uplifting. It can be therapeutic if you're feeling down and you put on a record and it speaks to you." Another musician who has been closely associated with Darkwave is Trent Reznor, best known as the mastermind behind Nine Inch Nails. In an interview with Rolling Stone, Reznor spoke about how much he was inspired by early Darkwave acts like Joy Division and Gary Numan: "I was drawn to these artists who were making music that was new and different and had a dark vibe. That's what I wanted to do myself." Finally, music journalist Ned Hepburn described Darkwave as a genre that possesses a sense of "romanticism and melancholy." In an article for NME, he writes that "Darkwave creates this visceral atmosphere of darkness and longing, which has always made it so fascinating. These are songs for when you're lost, alone, and looking for something that speaks to the deep sadness inside of you."

Socially, the 1970s were a time of unrest and transformation, with many societal norms being challenged and dismantled. There was a widespread sense of disillusionment and dissatisfaction with the status quo, which was reflected in the music of the time. The punk movement, which had emerged in the mid-1970s, was characterized by its DIY ethos and anti-establishment message, and it served as a critical influence on Darkwave. Many Darkwave artists came from the punk scene and brought with them a similar ethos of experimentation and subversion. Culturally, Darkwave emerged during a time of heightened interest in the occult, horror, and gothic literature. The genre drew heavily from these themes and imagery, with many Darkwave artists incorporating elements of horror and the macabre into their music and aesthetic. Darkwave also drew on the imagery of the gothic novel and incorporated elements of romanticism into its sound. As such, the genre became synonymous with a dark, moody, and atmospheric sound that resonated with many people seeking an escape from the everyday mundanity of life. Technologically, Darkwave was heavily reliant on the use of synthesizers, drum machines, and other electronic instruments. As technology advanced in the 1970s and 1980s, it became easier for artists to create and manipulate electronic sounds, which helped to establish the distinctive sound of Darkwave. The genre was also heavily influenced by the emergence of new wave, which was characterized by its use of synthesizers and electronic instruments. In terms of notable figures within the genre, there were several influential record labels that helped to popularize Darkwave. One of the most notable was 4AD, which released albums by iconic Darkwave bands such as Bauhaus, the Cocteau Twins, and Dead Can Dance. The label's distinctive style and aesthetic, as well as its willingness to take risks on new and experimental artists, helped to establish Darkwave as a legitimate and respected genre within the music industry. There were also several influential journalists and critics who helped to shape the public perception of Darkwave. One of the most notable was John Peel, a BBC radio host who championed many Darkwave artists throughout the 1980s. Peel's support helped to bring Darkwave to a wider audience, and he is now credited with helping to establish the genre as a legitimate and respected form of music.