Gothic

Gothic music emerged in the late 1970s, largely from the post-punk scene in the UK, as artists decided to forego traditional optimism in favour of melodrama and a preference for all things dark and moody. It's characterised by ethereal vocals, haunting melodies, and enough reverb to make a ghost feel right at home; one might say it's like being serenaded by a sepulchral choir in a dimly lit graveyard. The genre went on to inspire an entire subculture, proving that wearing black and moping around can actually have a soundtrack to match, much to the chagrin of more cheerful musical types.