The Best Darkwave Bands/Artists

Coley Reed
Updated November 7, 2023 124.2K views 57 items
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19.6K votes
2.4K voters

With its origins beginning in the 1970s, darkwave fused post-punk with gothic rock and New Wave while adding dark introspective lyrics, differentiating itself from other genres. Darkwave bands (whose fans were known as wavers and dark wavers) took off in the 1980s. Darkwave music first gained major traction in Europe and got bigger across that decade. This type of music ultimately spawned several other subgenres. However, darkwave bands managed to maintain their brooding brand of music; and even today, darkwave music remains as relevant as ever.

So what are the best Darkwave bands of all time? Any list of darkwave music has to include the likes of Bauhaus, The Cure, Sisters of Mercy, Joy Division, She Wants Revenge and Siouxsie and the Banshees. These artists are widely regarded as the most important and influential darkwave bands.

That said, it's up to you to determine who the best darkwave bands are. This list answers the questions "who are the best darkwave bands of all time?" and "who is the greatest darkwave musician ever?" If you know enough about the genre, please vote based on the quality of the band's music (albums and songs) instead of just voting for the most popular darkwave bands that you might've heard of.

  • The Cure
    1

    The Cure

    589 votes

    With a career spanning over four decades, The Cure has consistently pushed the boundaries of darkwave music by combining gothic rock, post-punk, and new wave influences. Known for their deeply emotional lyrics and atmospheric soundscapes, their albums like Disintegration and Pornography have become quintessential works within the genre. Frontman Robert Smith's melancholic voice and haunting delivery captivated listeners, creating a sense of longing and despair that resonates with fans even today. The Cure's ability to weave a rich tapestry of darkness, emotion, and complex musical arrangements secures their place among the greatest darkwave artists of all time.

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  • The Sisters of Mercy
    2

    Masters of gloomy atmospherics and driving post-punk rhythms, The Sisters of Mercy are often regarded as pioneers of the gothic rock and darkwave genres. Their impeccable fusion of guitar-driven melodies and drum machine beats creates an immersive sonic experience that can be both mesmerizing and foreboding. Andrew Eldritch's enigmatic presence and baritone vocals infuse their songs with a dystopian aura, resulting in a uniquely compelling sound. With a legacy built on albums such as First and Last and Always and Floodland, The Sisters of Mercy have undeniably earned their place among the titans of darkwave.

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  • Joy Division
    3

    Joy Division

    526 votes

    In the late 1970s, Joy Division burst onto the burgeoning post-punk scene with their distinctive sound and strikingly melancholic lyrics. The band's haunting exploration of isolation, despair, and existentialism created the foundation for what would become the darkwave movement. Ian Curtis' raw, emotive vocals and unique baritone voice brought an unsettling beauty to songs like "Love Will Tear Us Apart" and "Atmosphere." Though their career was tragically cut short, Joy Division's influence can still be heard in countless darkwave acts that have followed in their wake.

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  • Bauhaus
    4

    Bauhaus

    395 votes

    Bauhaus' surrealistic approach to songwriting and penchant for dark, experimental sounds made them a cornerstone of the gothic rock and darkwave movements. Often credited with creating the gothic rock genre, their fusion of punk, glam, and avant-garde elements resulted in a sound both visceral and haunting. Songs like "Bela Lugosi's Dead" and "She's in Parties" showcase Peter Murphy's distinctive baritone voice and the band's knack for constructing eerie, cinematic soundscapes. Bauhaus' influence on the darkwave scene is undeniable, and their legacy continues to inspire musicians worldwide.

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  • Siouxsie & the Banshees
    5

    Trailblazers in the post-punk and gothic rock movements, Siouxsie & the Banshees brought a dark glamour to the music world with their innovative songwriting and captivating live performances. Siouxsie Sioux's powerful and evocative vocals, combined with the band's penchant for moody atmospherics, firmly established them as icons of the darkwave genre. With seminal albums like Juju and A Kiss in the Dreamhouse, they forged a sound that was at once ethereal, aggressive, and deeply emotional. Siouxsie & the Banshees' groundbreaking work left an indelible mark on the world of darkwave and influenced countless artists over the years.

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  • Clan of Xymox
    6

    Clan of Xymox

    459 votes

    Clan of Xymox emerged in the 1980s as key figures in the darkwave and gothic rock scenes. Their synthesis of moody synths, driving beats, and melancholic lyrics drew listeners into an enveloping world of darkness and introspection. Their debut album, Clan of Xymox, remains a beloved classic, showcasing their talent for crafting seductive and gloomy soundscapes. From their early beginnings to their more recent work, Clan of Xymox have proven themselves as stalwarts of the darkwave genre, continually evolving while staying true to their roots.

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  • Echo & the Bunnymen
    7

    Echo & the Bunnymen made waves in the post-punk scene with their brooding sound and evocative lyrics. Fusing elements of psychedelic rock, new wave, and goth, their music possesses a depth and complexity that sets them apart from their contemporaries. Ian McCulloch's impassioned vocals and poignant storytelling bring an emotional resonance to songs like "The Killing Moon" and "A Promise." As pioneers in the development of darkwave music, Echo & the Bunnymen left an indelible mark on the genre and continue to inspire new generations of artists.

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  • Gary Numan
    8

    Gary Numan

    243 votes

    Synth-pop icon Gary Numan pioneered the fusion of electronic music and darkwave with his groundbreaking work in the late 1970s and early 1980s. His distinctive sound and approach to songwriting paved the way for countless darkwave artists who embraced synthesizers and futuristic themes in their work. Best known for the hit "Cars," Numan's knack for crafting memorable melodies underpinned by an unsettling darkness has kept him relevant and influential in the darkwave scene for decades. With a career spanning over 40 years, Gary Numan remains a driving force in the evolution of darkwave and electronic music.

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  • Peter Murphy
    9

    Peter Murphy

    221 votes

    As the enigmatic frontman for Bauhaus, Peter Murphy helped shape the gothic rock and darkwave movements with his baritone voice and theatrical stage presence. Since his time with Bauhaus, Murphy has maintained an impressive solo career that further showcases his versatility and talent as both a singer and composer. His solo works, such as "Deep" and "Love Hysteria," build upon the foundation laid during his time with Bauhaus, while offering a fresh perspective on darkwave music. Peter Murphy's magnetic charisma and undeniable artistry have solidified his place among the greatest darkwave artists of all time.

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  • Dead Can Dance
    10

    Dead Can Dance's otherworldly fusion of world music, darkwave, and ethereal sounds has made them a standout act within the genre. Lisa Gerrard's haunting, angelic vocals and Brendan Perry's somber baritone combine to create an eerie yet captivating atmosphere in their music. Their exploration of ancient and mystical themes, as showcased on albums like Spleen and Ideal and Within the Realm of a Dying Sun, have positioned them as pioneers in the darkwave and neoclassical scenes. Dead Can Dance's ability to transport listeners to a dark, enchanting realm through their music solidifies their status as one of the most influential and enthralling darkwave artists.

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  • Wolfsheim
    11

    Wolfsheim

    302 votes

    Wolfsheim's melancholic blend of synth-pop and darkwave has garnered them a dedicated following since their formation in the 1990s. Known for their emotive melodies and introspective lyrics, the German duo's music captures the essence of longing and despair. Tracks such as "The Sparrows and the Nightingales" and "Once in a Lifetime" showcase Peter Heppner's evocative vocals, which have become the band's signature sound. With their seamless integration of electronic and darkwave elements, Wolfsheim has undoubtedly earned their place among the genre's best.

  • Fields of the Nephilim
    12

    Fields of the Nephilim's dark and atmospheric fusion of gothic rock and darkwave has produced some of the most iconic songs and imagery within the genre. Frontman Carl McCoy's deep, gravelly voice and the band's distinctive western-influenced style combine to create a compelling, apocalyptic sound. Album's like Dawnrazor and Elizium showcase their penchant for crafting immersive soundscapes that transport listeners into a haunting, ethereal world. Fields of the Nephilim's unique aesthetic and captivating music have rightfully cemented their place as one of the most influential darkwave bands.

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  • Killing Joke
    13

    Killing Joke

    143 votes

    Killing Joke's innovative blend of post-punk, industrial, and gothic rock helped define the darkwave movement of the 1980s. The band's abrasive and sometimes chaotic sound, infused with politically charged lyrics, set them apart from their contemporaries, creating an intense sonic landscape that continues to resonate with fans. Songs like "Requiem" and "Eighties" exemplify their distinctive fusion of punk and goth sensibilities, resulting in a uniquely aggressive sound. Killing Joke's influence on the darkwave scene is monumental, and their fearless approach to music has left a lasting impact on countless bands that followed.

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  • The Mission
    14

    The Mission

    170 votes

    Born from the ashes of The Sisters of Mercy, The Mission emerged as a powerhouse within the gothic rock and darkwave scenes, carving out their own distinct identity. Led by charismatic frontman Wayne Hussey, the band's atmospheric sound and emotional intensity captured the hearts of fans across the world. Their seminal albums, such as God's Own Medicine and Carved in Sand, remain classic examples of darkwave's ability to captivate and explore the depths of the human spirit. The Mission's enduring influence on the genre testifies to their greatness and solidifies their status among the best darkwave artists.

  • She Wants Revenge
    15

    California-based duo She Wants Revenge merges darkwave, post-punk, and new wave influences to create their alluring, cinematic sound. With deep, sultry vocals and pulsating rhythms, tracks like "Tear You Apart" and "These Things" seduce listeners with their tales of love, obsession, and heartache. Their modern take on darkwave music has garnered them critical acclaim and a devoted fanbase, proving that the genre's allure transcends generations. She Wants Revenge's fresh and distinctive sound cements them as one of the most exciting acts in the darkwave scene.

  • The Birthday Massacre
    16

    The Birthday Massacre's unique blend of synth-pop, darkwave, and gothic rock has enchanted listeners since their inception in the early 2000s. Known for their candy-colored aesthetic and darkly poetic lyrics, the Canadian band creates a captivating soundscape full of wonder and foreboding. Chibi's ethereal yet powerful vocals add a distinct dimension to tracks such as "Blue" and "In the Dark," making The Birthday Massacre a standout act. Their delightfully twisted take on darkwave music has earned them a passionate following and a well-deserved place among the genre's best.

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  • Blutengel
    17

    Blutengel

    313 votes

    German darkwave/electro-goth act Blutengel combines dark, brooding synthesizers with haunting vocals to create an immersive sonic experience. Fronted by singer Chris Pohl, their music explores themes of love, loss, and the supernatural, as evident in songs like "Vampire Romance" and "Seelenschmerz." Blutengel's theatrical performances and evocative visuals have garnered them a devoted fanbase, making them one of the most identifiable acts within the darkwave genre. Their fusion of gothic, electronic, and industrial elements has solidified Blutengel as an innovative force in darkwave music.

  • Cabaret Voltaire
    18

    Cabaret Voltaire's groundbreaking experimentation with electronic and industrial sounds in the late 1970s and early 1980s had a profound impact on the formation of darkwave music. Pioneers of the industrial and experimental scenes, their innovative use of tape loops, synthesizers, and harsh, distorted vocals created a sound that was both futuristic and unsettling. Songs like "Nag, Nag, Nag" and "Crackdown" showcase their avant-garde approach to music and demonstrate how their pioneering spirit influenced countless darkwave artists. With a deep-rooted legacy in the genre, Cabaret Voltaire's importance in the history of darkwave music cannot be overstated.

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  • Project Pitchfork
    19

    German darkwave and electro-industrial pioneers Project Pitchfork have been pushing the boundaries of the genre since their formation in the early 1990s. Integrating cutting-edge synthesizers with thought-provoking lyrics, their music explores themes of self-discovery, social critique, and existentialism. Songs like "Timekiller" and "Rain" showcase Peter Spilles' enigmatic vocals and the band's ability to craft enveloping, atmospheric soundscapes. Project Pitchfork's relentless innovation and dedication to their craft has earned them a place among the greatest darkwave artists of all time.

  • VNV Nation
    20

    VNV Nation

    222 votes

    VNV Nation's fusion of synth-pop, industrial, and darkwave elements has made them one of the most influential acts in the electronic music scene. With emotionally charged lyrics and infectious melodies, tracks like "Standing" and "Beloved" have resonated with fans worldwide. Frontman Ronan Harris' engaging stage presence and powerhouse vocals elevate VNV Nation's live performances, earning them a reputation as a must-see act. Their innovative approach to darkwave and electronic music has inspired countless artists and solidified VNV Nation's standing as a force to be reckoned with.

  • London After Midnight
    21

    Led by singer/songwriter Sean Brennan, London After Midnight has captivated darkwave and gothic rock fans since the early 1990s. Combining atmospheric guitars, haunting synths, and Brennan's evocative vocals, the band's music explores themes of love, loss, and the human condition. Tracks like "Kiss" and "Spider and the Fly" exemplify their darkly romantic sound, earning them a devoted fanbase worldwide. London After Midnight's unique approach to darkwave music, as well as their dedication to artistic expression, places them among the greatest artists in the genre.

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  • Christian Death
    22

    One of the cornerstones of American gothic rock and darkwave, Christian Death has been provoking thought and controversy since their formation in the late 1970s. Fronted by the enigmatic Rozz Williams, their music delves into themes of religion, death, and societal norms, challenging listeners to question their beliefs. Albums like Catastrophe Ballet and Only Theatre of Pain are prime examples of their dark, theatrical sound. With a lasting influence on the darkwave scene, Christian Death's provocative lyricism and distinctive style firmly establish them as one of the genre's most important acts.

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  • Einstürzende Neubauten
    23

    Einstürzende Neubauten

    124 votes

    Einstürzende Neubauten, the German experimental and industrial music pioneers, have been pushing the boundaries of darkwave since their formation in 1980. With their innovative use of custom-made instruments, found objects, and unconventional sound sources, they have created a powerful and distinctive sonic landscape. Their seminal works, such as "Halber Mensch" and "Haus der Lüge," embody the band's relentless drive for experimentation and exploration of dark themes. As trailblazers within the darkwave and industrial genres, Einstürzende Neubauten's impact on the evolution of dark music cannot be overstated.

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  • The Frozen Autumn
    24

    The Frozen Autumn, an Italian darkwave duo formed in the early 1990s, has captivated listeners with their melancholic and atmospheric sound. Combining haunting synthesizers and introspective lyrics, their music reflects the cold beauty of the darkwave genre. Albums like Fragments of Memories and The Fellow Traveller demonstrate their emotional depth and ability to create immersive soundscapes. The Frozen Autumn's love for classic darkwave aesthetics, combined with their contemporary sensibility, secures their place among the best darkwave artists of all time.

  • The Crüxshadows
    25

    Florida-based darkwave act The Crüxshadows has captured the hearts of fans with their synth-driven melodies and emotionally charged lyrics since their formation in the 1990s. Frontman Rogue's distinctive vocals and introspective songwriting resonate with audiences, while band's energetic live performances make them a must-see act. Tracks like "Marilyn, My Bitterness" and "Deception" emphasize their signature blend of darkwave, electro, and gothic rock elements. The Crüxshadows' ability to create captivating music while maintaining a deep connection with their fans has solidified their status among the best darkwave artists.

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  • Diary of Dreams
    26

    German darkwave and electro-goth act Diary of Dreams has been enchanting fans with their brooding, atmospheric sound since the early 1990s. Fronted by Adrian Hates, the band's music explores themes of love, fear, and the human psyche, creating a dark, emotional journey for listeners. With albums such as One of 18 Angels and Nekrolog 43, Diary of Dreams showcases their talent for crafting haunting melodies and evocative, cinematic soundscapes. Their unique blend of darkwave, electronic, and gothic elements has earned them a devoted following and a respected place among the genre's best artists.

  • Lacrimosa
    27

    Lacrimosa

    115 votes

    German darkwave and gothic metal act Lacrimosa has been mesmerizing audiences with their fusion of classical music, darkwave, and heavy metal since the early 1990s. The band's music, characterized by lush orchestration, melodic synths, and emotive vocals, creates a powerful and dramatic soundscape. Albums such as Elodia and Stille showcase their talent for crafting epic, theatrical compositions that explore themes of love, loss, and existentialism. With their unique and ambitious approach to darkwave music, Lacrimosa has firmly established themselves as one of the genre's most innovative and influential acts.

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  • The Chameleons
    28

    With their atmospheric sound and introspective lyrics, The Chameleons emerged in the early 1980s as a notable force in the post-punk and darkwave scenes. Their music, characterized by ethereal guitar melodies and Mark Burgess' emotive vocals, has a timeless quality that continues to captivate fans today. Seminal albums such as Script of the Bridge and Strange Times demonstrate their ability to craft poignant, evocative soundscapes that resonate with listeners. The Chameleons' enduring influence on the darkwave genre secures their place among the best darkwave artists of all time.

  • Switchblade Symphony
    29

    Switchblade Symphony's ethereal fusion of darkwave, gothic rock, and trip-hop elements made them one of the most distinctive acts in the 1990s dark music scene. Known for their haunting melodies, lush orchestration, and Tina Root's mesmerizing vocals, the band created a sound that was both sinister and seductive. Albums like Serpentine Gallery and Bread and Jam for Frances showcase their talent for crafting atmospheric, dreamlike soundscapes that continue to enchant fans. Switchblade Symphony's unique blend of styles and their hauntingly beautiful sound have earned them a lasting place among the greatest darkwave artists.

  • Alien Sex Fiend
    30

    Since their emergence in the early 1980s, British goth pioneers Alien Sex Fiend have been a prominent force within the darkwave and post-punk scenes. With their chaotic, experimental sound and eccentric stage presence, the band has continually pushed the boundaries of dark music. Led by the enigmatic Nik Fiend, Alien Sex Fiend blends elements of punk, goth, and psychedelia to create a soundscape that is both eerie and captivating. Songs like "Dead and Buried" and "Now I'm Feeling Zombified" demonstrate their talent for crafting unforgettable dark anthems, solidifying their status as one of the most influential darkwave acts.

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