Evolution of New Wave and Post-Punk in the Late 1970s
The term 'new wave' has a rich history in the evolution of musical genres, particularly during the late 1970s. This period saw a significant shift in the music scene, with artists experimenting with new sounds and styles. Let's take a closer look at how the term 'new wave' emerged and evolved, influenced by the distinct characteristics of punk music.
UK vs. US Differences in New Wave Terminology
One of the most notable differences in the usage of the term 'new wave' can be observed between UK and US contexts. In the UK, the term was initially associated with a broader category that included punk and bands that were considered 'punk adjacent,' such as the Clash, the Damned, and the Stranglers. These bands were recognized as part of the new wave movement due to their musical innovations but often had a slightly different sound from the more aggressive punk bands like the Sex Pistols and the Ramones.
However, by the late 1970s, the term 'new wave' underwent a transformation. By 1978-79, it began to be used more specifically to describe bands that were less aggressive and more musically subtle than classic punk. Bands like Gang of Four and Joy Division fall into this category, serving as prime examples of the new wave's more sophisticated approach. This was in contrast to the poppier end of new wave, which shared the term with other genres such as power pop, new romantic, and synth-pop.
The Rise of Post-Punk and Blurred Clearances
During this time, the term 'new wave' also began to blur with 'post-punk.' Post-punk emerged as a natural evolution of punk, characterized by its experimental and avant-garde approach to music. Artists like Elvis Costello, Graham Parker, and the Police were key figures in this movement, blending the raw energy and directness of punk with more complex and melodic arrangements. The same can be said for the band Blondie, which initially started as a punk act but later evolved into a poppier sound.
Blondie is an interesting case study. They emerged from the New York punk scene and were well-known in UK punk circles by 1976-77. Initially, they were often referred to as 'punk' due to their origins in CBGB. However, as they developed into a more melodic and pop-oriented sound, they began to be called 'new wave.' Their commercial success in Britain came a few years later, and in hindsight, they were more consistently referred to as 'new wave' than their contemporaries with similar sounds.
The Early Impact of New Wave Music
My first encounter with the term 'new wave' was in the late 1970s, specifically with artists like Elvis Costello, Graham Parker, the Police, the Cars, and Blondie. The music of these artists carried an energy, defiance, and directness that were reminiscent of punk, yet they possessed a stronger melodic component and more refined production. This blend of punk ethos and musical sophistication created a unique sound that resonated with a wide audience.
Elvis Costello and Graham Parker, in particular, embodied the transition from punk to new wave. Their songs often contained a sense of rebellion and societal critique, similar to punk, but with a more nuanced approach to songwriting. The Police, with their catchy melodies and string arrangements, added a layer of complexity that extended beyond the punk blueprint. Bands like the Cars, with their power pop influence, provided a pop sensibility that was crucial in shaping the new wave sound.
The term 'new wave' signifies more than just a musical genre; it represents a cultural shift and a response to the changing musical landscape. As the punk movement evolved, new wave emerged as a bridge between raw energy and refined composition, paving the way for future musical trends.
Through the late 1970s, the music scene continued to evolve, with new wave and post-punk serving as catalysts for innovation. The legacy of these movements can still be felt in contemporary music, making the study of this period both interesting and informative.