Goth: A History

The Guardian's assessment rings true: Lol Tolhurst's Goth plausibly claims to be the near-definitive word on its subject. More than a mere history, this is an entertaining and evocative personal journey through Goth music and culture, narrated by a genuine insider.

Tolhurst, a co-founder of The Cure alongside Robert Smith, offers a compelling exploration of the genre's foundational acts. He delves into the legacies of the godfathers of goth – The Cure themselves, alongside contemporaries Siouxsie and the Banshees, Bauhaus, and Joy Division – as well as a wealth of other significant bands that provided sanctuary for the 1980s misfits and those who followed.

What elevates Goth beyond a standard historical account is Tolhurst's fascinating deep dive into the scene's key figures, enriched by his own personal recollections and those of fellow musicians, artists, and "magicians" who contributed to Goth's undeniable and enduring appeal. He provides insightful perspectives on acts like Depeche Mode and Cocteau Twins, demonstrating how they helped broaden the horizons of the genre's inherent darkness.

Ultimately, Tolhurst examines the lasting impact of goth music, revealing its pervasive influence across contemporary music, film, television, visual arts, and social media. Goth avoids simplistic nostalgia, instead presenting a thoughtful and thorough analysis that is utterly bewitching in its scope and detail. This is a timeless testament to the enduring significance of Goth and a compelling argument for its continued relevance. It's a book that resonates with both longtime devotees and those curious to understand the enduring allure of the dark.