Here's an outline of some of the different trends and styles that characterized New Wave bands:
1. Post-Punk: Bands such as Joy Division, The Cure, Echo & the Bunnymen, and Siouxsie & the Banshees emerged from the post-punk scene, combining punk's raw energy with experimental and atmospheric elements.
2. Ska Revival: New Wave bands like The Specials, Madness, and The Beat brought back the ska style of the 1960s, blending it with elements of punk, pop, and reggae.
3. Neo-Psychedelia: Bands such as The Flaming Lips, The Church, and The Cocteau Twins embraced a revival of psychedelic sounds, characterized by lush arrangements, layered effects, and hypnotic rhythms.
4. Synthpop: Electronic synthesizers became a defining feature for many New Wave bands, giving rise to the synthpop genre. Groups like Depeche Mode, Tears for Fears, and Eurythmics became pioneers in this area.
5. Dance-Punk: Some bands fused elements of post-punk and dance music, creating an energetic, danceable sound. Notable examples include Talking Heads, Blondie, and Gang of Four.
6. College Rock: This term was used to describe a diverse group of bands that gained popularity on college radio stations. They often showcased indie, alternative, and experimental music, encompassing various genres.
7. Experimental: Many New Wave bands pushed boundaries with experimental and avant-garde approaches. Bands like Pere Ubu, Talking Heads, and Japan explored unconventional song structures, soundscapes, and production techniques.
It's worth noting that many New Wave bands didn't fit neatly into these categories and often borrowed influences from several genres. The diversity and experimentation within New Wave contributed to its dynamic and influential nature in music history.