Joy Division - "Transmission" (1979)

Now this is some proper dreariness. It’s been said that the atmosphere of Joy Division gave rise to early goth rock and on “Transmission”, as you’re drawn in by Ian Curtis’ unsettling baritone delivery and a devilish bassline from Peter Hook, you can’t help but feel that this song is nothing if not dark and desolate.

Sex Pistols - "Pretty Vacant" (1977)

In amongst the explosive statements of anarchy and royal-bashing on a lot of the Sex Pistols’ work, “Pretty Vacant” is a lot less controversial yet has to be considered among the group’s finest work.