Your essential World Goth Day playlist

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May 22 is World Goth Day, a celebration of all things shadowy and mysterious. But goth isn't just about on day in the springtime, it's for life. In the '80s the gothic music scene was the refuge of those looking for something a bit darker, something otherworldly, something romantic yet bleak.

The gothic rock scene was full of jet black hair and eyeliner-clad bands dealing in introspection and gloom. Bands like The Mission, The Cure, Fields Of The Nephilim and The Cult led the charge, but there was a strong backline of fellow soldiers of misfortune. Clan Of Xymox, Skeletal Family, All About Eve... just some of the names that formed the basis for a musical scene that eventually became its own globally-recognised subculture with its own special day.

If you're new to goth or just want to remember the days of crimping your hair, we have created this special 20-song goth playlist. Set faces to morose.

Luke Morton joined Metal Hammer as Online Editor in 2014, having previously worked as News Editor at popular (but now sadly defunct) alternative lifestyle magazine, Front. As well as helming the Metal Hammer website for the four years that followed, Luke also helped relaunch the Metal Hammer podcast in early 2018, producing, scripting and presenting the relaunched show during its early days. He also wrote regular features for the magazine, including a 2018 cover feature for his very favourite band in the world, Slipknot, discussing their turbulent 2008 album, All Hope Is Gone.