The Beat, formed in Birmingham in 1979, spurred the British Two Tone Ska movement with their mix of soul, reggae, pop, and punk. Known for hits and a message of love and unity, they remain influential under Dave Wakeling's lead.
Dutch band Clan of Xymox, formed in 1981 in Nijmegen, blends darkwave, gothic rock, and synth-pop. Known for hits like "A Day" and their atmospheric, moody sounds, they've been influential in the gothic scene since their debut.
Born in France, Kavinsky, aka Vincent Belorgey, sparked the synthwave movement with '80s-inspired hits like "Nightcall" (featured in "Drive") and "Odd Look." His 2013 album "OutRun" hit #2 in France. Known for his zombie alter ego story and collaborations with The Weeknd and Justice.
Founded in L.A. in 1979, Christian Death spearheaded American goth rock with confrontational themes of blasphemy and deviance. Known for songs like "Romeo's Distress," their influential blend mixes punk, metal, and goth elements, heavily rooted in dark theatrics and provocation.
Formed in Athens, GA, the B-52s blended surf music, '60s pop, and kitsch to create hits like "Rock Lobster" & "Love Shack." Known for their LGBTQ+ advocacy, they earned a multi-platinum record with their album Cosmic Thing.
UK band Blossoms, from Stockport, hit the music scene in the 2010s with their Brit-pop and indie rock style. Known for hits like "Charlemagne," they've topped UK charts and maintained a strong touring presence. Their sound blends classic pop with modern influences, drawing comparisons to the Doors and Arctic Monkeys.
Orchestral Manoeuvres In The Dark, known for hits like "Enola Gay," exceed in their latest album, blending politics and pop. McCluskey and Humphreys keep their sound fresh, avoiding nostalgia.
UK's The Psychedelic Furs, led by the Butler brothers, are iconic in alternative rock with hits like "Love My Way" and "Pretty In Pink." Known for impactful MTV era presence and significant influence on US College Radio.
Formed in Manchester, The Chameleons debuted with "In Shreds" (1982), known for atmospheric pop and moody albums like "Script of the Bridge." Acclaimed for live performances; reunited in 2000 after 1986 split.
Glass Spells, a synth-pop duo from San Diego, features Anthony Ramirez's instrumentation and Tania Costello's emotive vocals. Known for dreamy, retro-inspired sounds and infectious hooks.
Urban Heat, formed in 2019, blends 80s dark styles with modern touches. Known for vibrant live shows and hits like “Have You Ever”. Winners of Austin’s "Best Band", featured at Cruel World and SXSW.
Born in Milwaukee, the Violent Femmes fused folk-punk in hits like "Blister in the Sun." Known for powerful, darkly humorous music, they achieved platinum with their 1983 debut. They've collaborated with icons like Tom Verlaine and experienced tumultuous band changes over decades.
Formed in Sheffield, 1977, the Human League, pioneers of synth pop, produced hits like "Don't You Want Me". They influenced countless artists, and won widespread acclaim for melding melodies with technology.
