The Sex Pistols were by far the most influential and successful of the early British punk bands. They were the first big punk band in the U.K. and paved the way for the British punk scene. They broke up after making only one CD and bassist Sid Vicious overdosed on heroine soon after.

The Clash was another important band from the U.K. in the 70s. They mixed punk, ska, and reggae to form a unique sound of their own. Lead singer and song writer Joe Strummer recently died of a drug overdose after many successful years with the Clash.

The Adicts are the longest standing punk band with all their original members. They started their music career in the 70s in the U.K. They are most recognized and remembered for their lead singer, Monkey, who wears make-up and hats and other odd clothing. They were greatly inspired by A Clockwork Orange and the rest of the band sometimes dresses like the movie characters.

Flogging Molly is an Irish punk band. They formed in the mid 90s and are very unique. They have at least 7 members at all times to fill the positions of all the instruments, including the mandolin and violin, which most other punk bands do not incorporate.

Turbonegro is a newer, darker punk band from Norway. They are the creators of death punk, a fast and haunting genre similar to horror punk. They have 6 members and dress in outrageous styles and costumes to compliment their strange style of play.

Gogol Bordello is a gypsy punk band from Eastern Europe. They are most influenced by gypsy music, as well as punk and dub. They use many odd instruments, such as the accordion, and have created a very original sound. They also have elaborate and fun stage shows unlike any others.