Italian New Wave, also known as Italo New Wave, emerged in the late 1970s and flourished throughout the 1980s. Characterized by its distinctive blend of post-punk's angularity and the avant-garde's experimentalism, this genre is marked by prominent use of synthesizers, driving rhythms, and introspective, often poetic lyrics. Born from the country's vibrant underground scene, Italian New Wave drew inspiration from international art rock and new wave movements, while maintaining a unique, introspective sensibility rooted in Italian culture. This genre's cultural significance lies in its reflection of the country's social and economic turmoil during the late Cold War era. Italian New Wave's distinctive sound, often featuring prominent basslines, atmospheric keyboards, and detached, emotive vocals, sets it apart from other European new wave styles, while its avant-garde leanings and DIY ethos align it with the broader post-punk movement.
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