Post Punk
Post-punk, emerging from the ashes of punk rock in the late 1970s, experimented with darker, more atmospheric soundscapes and complex song structures. Bands often incorporated elements of art rock, funk, and experimental music, rejecting the simplicity of their predecessors. The result was a diverse and influential genre that continues to inspire musicians today.
Founded in: 2012
Rendez-Vous: Parisian Post-Punk Pioneers
Rendez-Vous, hailing from the vibrant music scene of Paris, France, emerged in 2012 as a force of post-punk energy. The band, formed by the dynamic duo of Francis Mallari and Elliot Bethault, quickly expanded, welcoming Maxime Gendre and Simon Dubourg into the fold.
Their debut EP, aptly titled "Rendez-Vous," dropped in 2014 on Zappruder Records, marking their arrival on the French indie scene. This release fueled their first European tours in the summer of 2015, igniting a passionate following across the continent.
In 2016, Rendez-Vous upped the ante with their "Distance" EP, expertly mixed by Ben Greenberg of The Men and released on their new label, AVANT! Records. Their self-titled single "Distance" resonated with music critics, earning a coveted spot in Les Inrockuptibles magazine's "100 Best Songs of the Year" list.
2017 saw the release of "The Others," a track chosen by Burger Records to represent France on their global compilation, "Burger World." This recognition solidified Rendez-Vous' status as a key player in the international post-punk revival.
The band continued their relentless momentum, releasing "Double Zero" in June 2018, a taste of their debut LP, "Superior State." This LP was a testament to their evolution, showcasing their signature blend of driving rhythms, angular guitar riffs, and darkly poetic lyrics.
Rendez-Vous are more than just a band; they are a movement. With their captivating live performances and innovative sound, they continue to push the boundaries of post-punk, earning a devoted following and solidifying their place as one of the most exciting French bands to emerge in recent years.
Founded in: 2018
Vision Video: A Modern Gothic Dirge for the Disillusioned
Hailing from Athens, Georgia, Vision Video is a post-punk goth rock band that breathes fresh life into the classic sounds of the late 70s and 80s. Drawing inspiration from legendary acts like The Chameleons and The Cure, they blend the familiar with a distinctly contemporary edge.
At the heart of their music lies a profound exploration of the human psyche, grappling with the lasting effects of trauma and the quest for stability in a world teetering on the brink of chaos. Lead singer and guitarist Dusty Gannon, a veteran of both the Afghan war and the fire service, brings a raw and visceral understanding of life’s darker corners. “I wanted to create music that acknowledged the validity of feeling lost and broken,” Gannon explains, “but also confronts the darker truths of our flawed humanity.”
Vision Video's first two records, "Inked in Red" and "Haunted Hours," garnered critical acclaim. Pitchfork praised their ability to craft "dreamy tunes tailored for the wallflowers who explode onto the dance floor when the DJ drops 'Age of Consent' or 'Primary' at Goth Night." Both albums were recorded and mixed by Tom Ashton of The March Violets at his renowned Sub Von Studios in Athens, Georgia.
The band is currently preparing to record their third LP, "Modern Horror," at Maze Studios in Atlanta under the guidance of Grammy-winning producer Ben Allen. This next chapter promises to further solidify their position as a leading voice in the modern gothic revival, offering a soundtrack for the disillusioned and the restless.