Post-punk arose in the late 1970s, when musicians, inspired by the freedom and energy of punk, decided to go beyond its simple three chords. They kept the punk spirit of independence but added experiment, more complex structures, atmosphere, dark moods, and intellectual, often detached and anxious lyrics.
Its characteristic features are a sharp, “wiry” guitar sound, expressive bass lines (often leading), and a cold, alienated atmosphere. The genre's classics are Joy Division, Siouxsie and the Banshees, Wire, and the early Cure. Post-punk became one of the most influential currents, from which grew gothic rock, synth-pop, and indie rock. In the early 2000s it underwent a powerful revival (the post-punk revival). It is music of sombre beauty, depth, and uncompromising artistic search.
