deathrock
what it is
Deathrock is a term used to identify a sub-genre of punk rock incorporating horror elements and spooky atmospherics, that emerged on the West Coast of the United States in 1979. Deathrock songs use simple chords, echoing guitars, a prominent bass, and drumming which emphasizes repetitive, post-punk beats within a 4/4 time signature. To create atmosphere, scratchy guitars are sometimes used.
✦ start here: albums
✦ who's making it, level by level
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 deathrock a playlist
turn these 25 artists into something you can press play on.
✦ nearby genres
questions
What is deathrock?
Deathrock is a term used to identify a sub-genre of punk rock incorporating horror elements and spooky atmospherics, that emerged on the West Coast of the United States in 1979. Deathrock songs use simple chords, echoing guitars, a prominent bass, and drumming which emphasizes repetitive, post-punk beats within a 4/4 time signature. To create atmosphere, scratchy guitars are sometimes used.
What are good deathrock albums to start with?
Try Death Church by Rudimentary Peni, Cinema Strange by Cinema Strange, Dead Pop by Plastique Noir, and Acid Bath by Alien Sex Fiend.
Who are some women making deathrock?
musicisforgirls.com/genres/deathrock/girls lists women, non-binary artists, and bands with women making deathrock, from mainstream to underground.
genre notes from last.fm listeners · artists and albums from last.fm, updated 2026-10-19