Since its launch in 2022, Dresden’s Cold-Hearted Festival has rapidly evolved into a cornerstone of the European darkwave scene, selling out three years in a row. Returning in 2025, it continues to solidify its reputation as one of Europe’s premier events for darkwave and post-punk enthusiasts. This year’s lineup is as exciting as ever, with the festival slated for November 14th at Bochum’s Matrix and November 15th at Dresden’s Alter Schlachthof.
Collectively, the bands on the bill span the entire spectrum of darkwave, post-punk, and coldwave—from classic minimalism to synth-driven atmospheres and guitar-heavy gothic rock. Each act brings a distinctive energy that underscores the Cold-Hearted Festival’s tradition of showcasing some of the most dynamic darkwave performers out there today. It’s not just the coolest festival in Europe, it’s ice-cold.
British-Swiss/German duo Lebanon Hanover leads the pack of first announcements of next year’s festival lineup, bringing their iconic coldwave-influenced post-punk sound. This year they’ll be joined by TRAITRS, Selofan, Automelodi, Dancing Plague, Then Comes Silence, Echoberyl, Ductape, and more!
Lebanon Hanover
A British–Swiss/German duo formed by Larissa Iceglass and William Maybelline in 2010, Lebanon Hanover quickly became icons in the modern coldwave/post-punk revival. Their minimal, melancholic guitar lines and stark lyrical themes channel the spirit of the early 1980s while maintaining a distinct identity. A favorite in the darkwave underground, Lebanon Hanover is widely celebrated for their intense live shows and a sound that’s as sparse as it is hypnotic.
TRAITRS
Hailing from Toronto, Canada, TRAITRS is a post-punk/darkwave duo known for creating a brooding, atmospheric sound led by propulsive basslines and emotive vocals. Their music often explores themes of isolation and longing, delivered with an anthemic energy that has helped them gain traction throughout Europe’s goth and alternative scene.
Selofan
A Greek darkwave/minimal synth duo from Athens, Selofan stands out for their theatrical performances and haunting electronic soundscapes. Drawing on everything from classic coldwave to avant-garde art-pop, they create moody, cinematic songs rich in drama and atmosphere. Selofan’s discography on the influential Fabrika Records has solidified their reputation as key players in contemporary darkwave.
Automelodi
Montreal’s Automelodi brings a sleek blend of French new wave, minimal synth, and post-punk, often sung in French. Led by songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Xavier Paradis, their danceable rhythms and shimmering melodies provide a bright yet mysterious take on the genre—ideal for fans of classic synthpop and the more accessible side of darkwave.
Dancing Plague
Based in Spokane, Washington, Dancing Plague is a solo project that weaves elements of minimal wave, goth rock, and synth-heavy post-punk into a lush, melancholic soundscape. Expect an enveloping haze of electronic beats and haunting vocals that capture a sense of nocturnal nostalgia. Despite being a relatively underground act, Dancing Plague has been steadily gathering a loyal following in the darker corners of synth-based music.
Then Comes Silence
From Stockholm, Sweden, Then Comes Silence merges post-punk and gothic rock for a driving, cinematic experience. Their music often explores themes of mortality, the occult, and the darker side of the human psyche, layered over rumbling basslines and richly textured guitars. Their dynamic live presence resonates strongly with fans of classic goth acts like The Sisters of Mercy or Fields of the Nephilim.
Echoberyl
A French–Italian duo, Echoberyl crafts dreamy, cinematic darkwave music highlighted by ethereal vocals and atmospheric synth work. Their songs often center around dramatic storytelling, seamlessly blending romance, mystery, and noir undertones. Echoberyl’s lush production style and haunting melodies make them an exciting modern entrant in the darkwave scene.
Ductape
Coming from Istanbul, Ductape is a rising post-punk/darkwave duo distinguished by their raw energy and moody, minimalist electronics. Their tracks strike a balance between sharper, dancefloor-friendly beats and a chilly, reflective introspection.
With its history of sold-out shows and a lineup covering the full spectrum of darkwave and post-punk, Cold-Hearted Festival 2024 is shaping up to be an unmissable event for fans across Europe and beyond. Be sure to follow the festival’s official website and Facebook page for the latest updates and additional band announcements.
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