Light Asylum

LIGHT ASYLUM is the internationally acclaimed techno-punk project of vocalist and producer Shannon Funchess, founded in Brooklyn, New York, in 2007. Known for intense, cathartic live performances and a distinctive sonic identity, LIGHT ASYLUM quickly became a defining force in the revival of late-70s to 90s electronic music, drawing inspiration from Detroit techno, Belgian new beat, EBM, gothic rock, Chicago house, new wave, and synth pop.

The breakthrough came in 2011 with the EP In Tension and its standout track »Dark Allies«, which soon became a gothic club anthem. Funchess’ powerful contralto voice and emotionally charged delivery helped shape the dark-wave and cold-wave resurgence within New York’s underground scene.

This momentum led to performances at iconic venues and festivals worldwide, including Radio City Music Hall, the Sydney Opera House, the Moulin Rouge, Wave-Gotik-Treffen, and Berlin’s Berghain.
In 2026, LIGHT ASYLUM will release new material for the first time since 2012.