Best post-punk songs from the 80s

As one of New Order's earliest tracks, 'Ceremony' bridges the sound of Joy Division with their evolving electronic style. It's a crucial transitional piece, capturing the raw emotion of their past while hinting at their future direction.

This widely recognized song by Modern English showcases the melodic sophistication and lyrical storytelling that became characteristic of post-punk as it expanded. Its enduring appeal highlights the genre's ability to produce accessible yet profound music.

A melancholic yet powerful track, 'This Is the Day' by The The showcases Matt Johnson's distinctive songwriting and vocal style. It's a staple of 80s post-punk, known for its introspective lyrics and unique instrumentation.

This Joy Division track is a quintessential post-punk anthem, frequently cited as one of the genre's most iconic and emotionally resonant songs. It masterfully combines profound emotional depth with an unforgettable melody, making it a timeless classic.

Siouxsie And The Banshees are post-punk royalty, and 'Christine' exemplifies their dark, biting, and incisive style. Siouxsie Sioux's powerful vocals shimmer over gothic guitar riffs, making it a standout track from their influential discography.

The Cure's 'A Forest' introduced listeners to darker atmospheres and creative instrumentation, showcasing the band's innovative use of space and mood. Its driving bassline and haunting guitar work made it a seminal track in early 80s post-punk.

Talking Heads blended funk and polyrhythmic backing with unique vocals in 'The Great Curve,' making it an unforgettable and original post-punk listen. It highlights their experimental approach and genre-bending innovation.

This defining song from The Psychedelic Furs showcases Richard Butler's dry, sarcastic lyrical style and the band's artistic, genre-defying approach to rock and roll. It became an iconic track of the early 80s post-punk scene.

A standout track from New Order's 'Power, Corruption & Lies' album, 'Age Of Consent' is often linked with the feeling of springtime and praised for its enduring appeal. It exemplifies the band's mastery of combining melodic hooks with post-punk energy.

While sometimes considered new wave, The Smiths demonstrated that post-punk could be thoughtful and widely appealing, with 'How Soon Is Now?' being a prime example. Its distinctive tremolo guitar and Morrissey's profound lyrics define its unique sound.

Another iconic track from The Smiths, 'This Charming Man' is known for its jangly guitar and Morrissey's distinctive vocals. It solidified their place in the post-punk landscape, showcasing their unique blend of wit and melodicism.

Cocteau Twins' 'Lorelei' represents the atmospheric side of post-punk, with dreamy textures that expanded the emotional range of the genre. Its ethereal soundscapes and Elizabeth Fraser's unique vocals are instantly recognizable.

This track shows Siouxsie And The Banshees' continued evolution and ability to blend thoughtful lyrics with widely appealing melodies. It's a powerful example of their mid-80s sound, maintaining their edge while embracing broader appeal.

A highly influential track, 'Bizarre Love Triangle' showcases New Order's blend of post-punk sensibilities with electronic and dance elements. It defined the sound of the mid-80s, pushing the genre into new, more rhythmic directions.

This beloved song highlights The Cure's ability to craft timeless melodies with emotional depth, even as their sound evolved. It's a perfect example of their late 80s output, blending pop sensibility with their signature atmospheric style.