How to Discover Underrated New Wave Artists

New Wave music, an iconic genre that rose to prominence in the late 1970s and early 1980s, continues to captivate listeners with its unique fusion of punk, pop, rock, and electronic sounds. While the genre gave birth to household names like David Bowie, Talking Heads, and Blondie, there remains a treasure trove of underrated New Wave artists whose contributions to the genre have been overlooked or forgotten by mainstream audiences. For music enthusiasts, discovering these hidden gems is a thrilling journey into a rich and experimental sonic landscape.

This article explores the ways in which you can unearth underrated New Wave artists, highlighting the historical context of the genre, offering practical strategies for music discovery, and suggesting methods for integrating these artists into your music collection.

Understanding the Essence of New Wave Music

Before diving into the search for underrated New Wave artists, it's important to understand what defines the genre. New Wave emerged as a reaction to the aggression and rawness of punk rock. It was a movement that emphasized artistic experimentation, synthesizers, and a more polished production style, while still retaining the rebellious attitude of its punk predecessors. New Wave artists often incorporated elements from various musical genres such as disco, electronic, and even art rock, creating a distinct sound that bridged the gap between the post-punk era and the mainstream pop of the 1980s.

Some of the hallmarks of New Wave music include:

• Synthesizers: Electronic instruments played a crucial role in shaping the futuristic sound of New Wave.
• Artistic Experimentation: Many New Wave artists embraced an avant-garde approach, using unconventional song structures and diverse production techniques.
• Pop Sensibility: Unlike punk's raw edge, New Wave often had a more accessible and melodic approach, making it appealing to a broader audience.
• Visual Aesthetics: New Wave was not just about the music; it was a cultural movement that involved fashion, music videos, and an overall visual identity. Many artists were pioneers in this respect, helping to lay the foundation for the MTV generation.

Understanding these characteristics will help you appreciate the range of New Wave music and recognize the potential of discovering lesser-known artists who were part of this groundbreaking era.

Exploring the Lesser-Known Corners of New Wave

New Wave is often associated with big names, but there's a wealth of artists whose contributions were equally influential but did not achieve the same level of fame. These overlooked figures offer a different perspective on the genre, one that is often more experimental, obscure, and deeply personal.

Here are a few strategies to help you uncover these underrated artists:

1. Dive into Obscure Labels and Record Stores

Independent record labels were instrumental in the development of New Wave music. Many lesser-known New Wave bands released albums on small, independent labels, which didn't have the marketing power to push these artists into the mainstream. By exploring the catalogs of labels such as Factory Records , 4AD , Rough Trade , and Mute Records, you can find a wealth of lesser-known music that never hit the radio waves but is filled with innovation and creativity.

Visiting independent record stores or digging through second-hand vinyl stores can also lead you to rare New Wave records that have long been forgotten. Often, these stores will have albums that were never reissued or pressed in small quantities. The joy of discovering a record you've never heard of, especially in vinyl format, is an unparalleled experience that can open doors to new artists and hidden gems.

2. Explore International Acts

New Wave wasn't confined to the United States and the United Kingdom. Artists across Europe, Asia, and even South America were experimenting with the genre, contributing to the global spread of New Wave music. Bands from countries like Germany (such as Kraftwerk ), France (Télévision ), and Australia (The Church) made their mark on the genre, yet some of their lesser-known works remain overlooked.

In particular, Europe produced a number of New Wave artists who remained relatively obscure outside their home countries. Exploring international acts can introduce you to fresh perspectives and sounds that shaped the New Wave movement but never gained international attention. For example, French bands like Lio or Taxi Girl were pioneers of French New Wave pop and had an innovative sound that combined French chanson with synth-driven melodies, yet they remain largely unknown to mainstream audiences today.

3. Utilize Streaming Platforms for Deep Cuts

While major New Wave hits are easily accessible on platforms like Spotify or Apple Music, these services also provide the opportunity to explore deep cuts from artists you might not have heard of. By utilizing playlists or radio features on these platforms, you can discover hidden gems based on your musical tastes.

One effective strategy is to listen to albums or tracks from bands you already love and explore related or lesser-known works. Many streaming services provide curated playlists and recommendations that include not only popular tracks but also albums from more obscure artists. These platforms also allow you to explore an artist's full discography, often featuring singles, B-sides, and demo tracks that aren't included on best-of compilations or mainstream playlists.

4. Research Independent Music Blogs and YouTube Channels

In the age of digital media, independent music blogs and YouTube channels are treasure troves of underground music. These platforms often feature obscure and lesser-known artists that fly under the radar of commercial music sites. You can find entire communities dedicated to New Wave music, with users sharing rare finds, forgotten albums, and lesser-known tracks from the genre's heyday.

Many bloggers and YouTubers specialize in specific sub-genres of New Wave, such as post-punk , synth-pop , or no-wave . These individuals often have a deep knowledge of the genre and can point you toward new, underrated artists that you might not discover through mainstream sources. Some notable music blogs to follow include Post-Punk.com , The New Wave Outlaws , and Synthetix.FM.

5. Attend Live Shows and Festivals Focused on New Wave Music

Even today, New Wave music continues to influence musicians, and many artists still perform at festivals and venues worldwide. While some big names from the genre perform at large venues, smaller independent festivals often feature up-and-coming acts inspired by the New Wave era. These festivals are a great place to discover artists who are still active but might not have the recognition they deserve.

Look for festivals dedicated to retro and vintage music, or events that celebrate 1980s culture and fashion. Smaller clubs and live venues may also host niche New Wave nights where you can hear both new and old artists who are keeping the genre alive.

6. Network with Other Music Enthusiasts

Joining music forums or fan communities can also open up new avenues for discovering underrated artists. There are numerous online communities, ranging from Reddit's r/NewWave, to forums dedicated to specific musical eras or genres. Members often share deep cuts, rare tracks, and recommendations for hidden gems.

Being part of a community of music enthusiasts can introduce you to artists you may have never encountered on your own. Engaging in discussions, reading reviews, and sharing recommendations can lead to discoveries that go beyond typical music channels.

How to Identify the Potential of Underrated New Wave Artists

As you begin your journey to discover underrated New Wave artists, it's important to know what to look for in their music. While these artists may not have achieved mainstream fame, many of them have qualities that set them apart and make them worth your time.

1. Unique Sound

One of the hallmarks of New Wave is its experimentation with sound. While many popular New Wave bands stuck to more accessible sounds, underground artists pushed the boundaries of production, mixing punk influences with electronic, ambient, and avant-garde styles. Look for artists who incorporate unique sounds, unconventional song structures, and bold sonic choices.

2. Lyrical Depth

New Wave music often explored deeper themes, from the complexities of modern life to the exploration of identity, politics, and existential themes. Pay attention to the lyrical content of the music, as many underrated New Wave artists crafted powerful, poetic lyrics that resonate with contemporary issues.

3. Artistic Vision

New Wave artists often had a clear artistic vision, whether it was reflected in their music, their visuals, or their overall aesthetic. Look for artists who brought a sense of originality to the genre and expressed a clear identity. Whether it's through their fashion choices, music videos, or album covers, an artist's visual style can often provide insight into their music and influence on the genre.

Conclusion

Discovering underrated New Wave artists is a rewarding journey that opens up a world of experimental sounds and underappreciated masterpieces. From diving into obscure record labels and exploring international acts to utilizing streaming platforms and attending live shows, there are countless ways to find hidden gems within the genre. By keeping an open mind and embracing the experimental and diverse nature of New Wave, you can uncover a wealth of music that speaks to the soul and reflects the innovative spirit of the era.

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