New Wave vs. Post Punk

Attribute	New Wave	Post Punk
Origins	United Kingdom	United Kingdom
Time Period	Late 1970s to early 1980s	Late 1970s to early 1980s
Sound	Pop-oriented, synthesizer-driven	Experimental, raw, edgy
Influences	Punk rock, electronic music	Punk rock, art rock
Fashion	Bold colors, asymmetrical haircuts	DIY, anti-fashion

Origins

New Wave and Post Punk are two distinct genres that emerged in the late 1970s and early 1980s as a response to the dominant rock music of the time. New Wave was characterized by its incorporation of electronic music, pop sensibilities, and a more polished sound compared to the raw energy of punk rock. Post Punk, on the other hand, was a more experimental and avant-garde offshoot of punk, with artists pushing the boundaries of traditional rock music.

Sound

One of the key differences between New Wave and Post Punk lies in their sound. New Wave bands often incorporated synthesizers, drum machines, and other electronic elements into their music, giving it a more polished and danceable feel. Artists like Depeche Mode and The Human League were known for their catchy hooks and slick production. Post Punk, on the other hand, embraced a more minimalist and angular sound, with bands like Joy Division and Gang of Four using dissonant guitar riffs and unconventional song structures to create a darker and more experimental sound.

Lyrics

Lyrically, New Wave and Post Punk also diverged in their approach. New Wave bands often focused on themes of love, relationships, and everyday life, with a more lighthearted and pop-oriented approach to songwriting. Artists like Blondie and The Cars were known for their catchy, radio-friendly lyrics. Post Punk, on the other hand, delved into more introspective and politically charged subject matter, with bands like The Cure and Siouxsie and the Banshees exploring themes of alienation, despair, and social commentary in their lyrics.

Fashion

Another notable difference between New Wave and Post Punk was their fashion sensibilities. New Wave artists embraced a more colorful and flamboyant style, with bold makeup, spiky hair, and flashy outfits being common among bands like Duran Duran and Culture Club. Post Punk, on the other hand, favored a more minimalist and edgy look, with artists like The Sisters of Mercy and Bauhaus opting for black leather, ripped clothing, and a more gothic aesthetic.

Legacy

Both New Wave and Post Punk had a lasting impact on the music industry and continue to influence artists to this day. New Wave's emphasis on electronic music and pop sensibilities paved the way for the synthpop and new romantic movements of the 1980s, with bands like Depeche Mode and Duran Duran achieving mainstream success. Post Punk, on the other hand, laid the groundwork for alternative rock and indie music, with bands like Sonic Youth and The Pixies drawing inspiration from the genre's experimental and DIY ethos.