darkwave
what it is
darkwave is a moody electronic style that grew out of new wave and post-punk in the late 1970s and 1980s, adding shadowy atmospheres and introspective lyrics. it became deeply intertwined with goth culture, sharing its aesthetic but often leaning more synthetic.
what it sounds like
expect cold, shimmering synths layered over steady drum machines, with vocals that range from detached whispers to dramatic crooning. the music feels nocturnal and cinematic, like walking through empty city streets at 3am, with melodies that stick in your head even as they brood.
where it came from
it emerged alongside the goth rock scene in the late 70s and early 80s, with bands like Clan of Xymox blending new wave's electronic textures with darker, more romantic themes. the sound has evolved over decades but still draws from that original mix of synthesizers, mystery, and melancholy.
✦ start here: albums
✦ who's making it, level by level
level 2 · the door
big names with a sharper edge
level 3 · one step out
cult favorites and indie darlings
level 4 · further
art pop, hyperpop, and the underground
level 5 · all the way
deep experimental
✦ make darkwave a playlist
turn these 34 artists into something you can press play on.
✦ nearby genres
questions
What is darkwave?
darkwave is a moody electronic style that grew out of new wave and post-punk in the late 1970s and 1980s, adding shadowy atmospheres and introspective lyrics. it became deeply intertwined with goth culture, sharing its aesthetic but often leaning more synthetic. expect cold, shimmering synths layered over steady drum machines, with vocals that range from detached whispers to dramatic crooning. the music feels nocturnal and cinematic, like walking through empty city streets at 3am, with melodies that stick in your head even as they brood.
Where did darkwave come from?
it emerged alongside the goth rock scene in the late 70s and early 80s, with bands like Clan of Xymox blending new wave's electronic textures with darker, more romantic themes. the sound has evolved over decades but still draws from that original mix of synthesizers, mystery, and melancholy.
What are good darkwave albums to start with?
Try Clan of Xymox by Clan of Xymox, TRST by TR/ST, Careful by Boy Harsher, and Abyss by Chelsea Wolfe.
Who are some women making darkwave?
musicisforgirls.com/genres/darkwave/girls lists women, non-binary artists, and bands with women making darkwave, from mainstream to underground.
artists and albums from last.fm, updated 2026-10-20