Postpunks

Post-punk is a broad genre of rock music that emerged in the late 1970s, following the initial wave of punk rock. While retaining punk's DIY ethos and often its confrontational attitude, post-punk musicians expanded upon its sonic and thematic boundaries. They incorporated elements from a variety of genres including dub, funk, disco, electronic music, and avant-garde art.

Lyrically, post-punk often explored more introspective, intellectual, and politically charged themes than its punk predecessors. Subjects could range from alienation and urban decay to social commentary and existentialism. Musically, the genre is characterized by a willingness to experiment. This often manifested in a more angular, dissonant, and rhythmically complex sound, featuring prominent basslines, unconventional song structures, and the use of synthesizers and other electronic instruments.

Key artists associated with post-punk include Joy Division, Siouxsie and the Banshees, The Cure, Public Image Ltd., Gang of Four, and Talking Heads. The genre itself is diverse, with many bands developing unique sounds that defy easy categorization. Post-punk's influence has been significant, paving the way for subsequent genres like new wave, gothic rock, and indie rock, and its artistic innovations continue to resonate in contemporary music.