The Music of Steampunk

So what exactly is considered "Steampunk music"? If you search the genre of Steampunk in a Web site such as Last.fm, results will include bands such as Abney Park, Vernian Process, Dr. Steel, The Clockwork Quartet, and many others. A common aspect in these bands includes Victorian-themed lyrics combined with orchestral characteristics or a metallic, gritty sound.

Of course, your Steampunk band cannot be complete unless you have Steampunk modified instruments. The band Abney Park, probably the most mainstream Steampunk band, not only has the Steampunk style incorporated into their performance, but also has it incorporated into their instruments.

Abney Park's Finn Von Claret with modified microphone at Salon-Con on September 13, 2008

Abney Park's Kristina Erickson displays her keys at Salon-Con on September 13, 2008

Abney Park's Daniel C displays his bass at Salon-Con on September 13, 2008


If you are interested in making your own Steampunk modified instruments, Jake von Slatt over at The Steampunk Workshop has detailed instructions on how to turn a Fender Stratocaster into a Steampunk guitar.