For me, I’m not sure.
I love synthwave like GUNSHIP and PYLOT and Essenger as much as the next cyberpunk, but besides a few particular GUNSHIP and Essenger songs, they don’t feel quite right.
Neither does straight up punk rock or metal, which is the other stuff I listen to.
The cyberpunk music I want needs to be a blend of the two I think — the atmospheric sounds and use of synths and technological effects from synthwave, and the overt rage and message and aggressive, imperfect rock sound of punk rock and metal.
Edit: I’m liking industrial so far!
I’d recommend maybe checking out some post-industrial bands like Skinny Puppy or Front Line Assembly. Might be the vibe you’re looking for.
Here are a couple of examples: Skiny Puppy - “Testure” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fLm9mhh7gvg
Front Line Assembly - “Mindphaser” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RWjBPIbJMzY
That sounds excellent! I actually just finished reading an essay that made industrial music sound like the natural cyberpunk successor to punk rock, so this is perfect timing!
What essay did you read if you don’t mind my asking?