Choice 2025 Outstanding Academic Title

Explore the defining musical artists and moments of the punk rock and new wave eras – one of the most transformative times in rock and roll history. This encyclopedia makes the case for punk rock's enduring social and cultural importance from 1975, when punk was born in New York City, through 1985, by which time punk and new wave had changed the rock music industry forever. Their introduction of new forms of rebellious, boundary-redefining musical expression reverberated with new generations of listeners, singers, and musicians.

The encyclopedia covers notable recording acts whose debut albums were released from 1975 through 1985. Coverage encompasses superstars (U2, Duran Duran), historically foundational acts (Sex Pistols, Ramones) and cult bands that amassed a significant legacy of recordings (Violent Femmes, X). Covering discography highlights and touring controversies alike, this resource covers all the reference bases for understanding the most influential and electrifying bands of this era. Coverage is further supplemented with entries on a wide assortment of musical trends and side topics associated with punk rock and new wave music.

Prizes

Winner of Choice Outstanding Academic Title 2025 (United States)

The notes direct readers to other essays related to a particular entry, exposing sometimes surprising connections between musicians and bands. The encyclopaedia also includes unique information that might have eluded seasoned students of punk and new wave, making it an essential resource for enthusiasts and academics. * CHOICE *

David Luhrssen cofounded the punk fanzine that grew into the Shepherd Express, Milwaukee's alternative news magazine. He serves as managing editor of the Express. Luhrssen taught at Milwaukee Institute of Art and Design, USA, and is author or co-author of numerous books on music and film history, including Elvis Presley: Reluctant Rebel (Praeger, 2011) and the Encyclopedia of Classic Rock (Greenwood, 2017).

Michael Larson is an author, musician, songwriter, and attorney. He holds a law degree from Case Western Reserve University. He is co-author of the Encyclopedia of Classic Rock (Greenwood, 2017) and has written about music for Milwaukee's Shepherd Express alternative newspaper.