Synthetix Weekend Update

Whenever anyone has asked me over the years where I think 80s inspired synth music is 'going' I've always been of the mind the mainstream electronic music markets aren't the place that the music we love will find a new and wider appreciative audience. The market where it's becoming more and more obvious that this music belongs and gains true purpose is in movie, TV and video game soundtracks. I've been hoping that this would become more common place and slowly but surely producers are securing roles in these medium; and I really hope this is long term outlet for the music to be optimally used.

I'd like to take this space to personally congratulate the most recent rockers to get their tunes used in soundtrack work. Congratulations Gost and Lazerhawk for their music that is in the latest Ubisoft blockbuster game Watch Dogs and congratulations to Dynatron for his track that is in the upcoming movie Cold In July. Here's to a lot more of this kind of thing happening in the future!

Put your seats into the take off position as we pull the throttle back to full power for this week's featured AIRBORNE releases!

 Glass Apple Bonzai - Glass Apple Bonzai  We've been a fan of of Glass Apple Bonzai's brand of 80s driven synth pop on Synthetix.FM thoughout 2014 and this past week has witnessed the release of the first Glass Apple Bonzai album. Containing nine  rockin tracks the songs are very thoughtfully presented, leaning towards a morose, early 80s european flavour of synth pop with sparse synthscapes and vocals that brood along nicely indeed. Stand out tracks like  'The Freeze', 'The Fist' and the Numan-esque 'The Girl With The Telephoto Eye' really rock hard and I'm sure you'll find much to enjoy within.

Atrey - Supernova Atrey has been on the Synthetix.FM radar since he blew me away with his Guilty Pleasure track earlier this year. His mix of modern techniques and 80s melodies is sure to excite many fans of the likes of Robots With Rayguns and Starcadian. His new four track EP defies the past, future and present with invigorating mixtures of emotive melodies and crushing arrangements. Atrey explores more ambient pastures too, creating some marvellously constructed atmospheres in 'So Far Away' and 'Naomi'. A great EP that is sure to rock you hard.


Room 8 - Visions Of You After waiting for seemingly aeons the first EP from Room 8 has landed! The announcement of Room 8 in 2012 has finally beared fruit and what delicious tasting morsels they are. I won't go into the history or Room 8 here, but be sure to read their blurb on soundcloud to get up to speed. Containing the title track (plus two remixes) and a second original piece there is a lot of to love about Visions Of You. The title track features 80s synth scene mainstays Electric Youth and is a powerfully delivered gem of 80s synth goodness with poppy hooks and crystalline production. The two remixes provided by none other than Miami Nights 1984 and Plastic Plates provide new avenues for the experience, with the MN1984 version being my pick of the two. 'Geo' is the other original track on this release and it is another beautifully composed and performed slice of sweet 80s synth magic. Here's hoping we get some more Room 8 music soon and that their Transduction album is nearing completion.

---------------------------------------------------

What better way to open up the Weekend Update than with a hot new track from Foreign Blade. This producer's latest piece is full of action and rocks a triumphant atmosphere full of synths, guitars and marching percussions. 'From Duke To Messiah' rocks hard and is currently available for FREE download.

Hello Meteor continues to impress with each new track and 'I'll Come Back For You' is one of his strongest piece yet. The sublimely atmospheric synthscape is accented with crisp elements and then swells into an incredibly rich melodic final act. Although short in length, this is massive in scope.




Delivering a different kind of intensity is the new track from Pyramid Aeon. The energy in this track is undeniable as it's modern synth sounds blend with 80s emotions and climb ever star-ward and the narrative is rich and rewarding from beginning to the exciting conclusion. You can pick up a copy of this track at a name-your-own price point on Bandcamp here.




The Dust Collective were introduced to me by Denovomutans recently, whom I'd like to thank for doing so. 'Ripper' by The Dust Collective is another killer track being used on The Outrunners webcomic and is ride down dangerous streets into a world of violence and disorder. The piece is put together to maximise the tension and intrigue and does so very well. Currently available for FREE download too.




Hot new music from RF Extreme next with his new synthual experience 'Digital Directional'. This track is a magnificent blend of his OutRun and Synth Romance sounds which combine into an amazing new experience. The scope is huge and the story deep and involving as each chapter progresses.




Although it is policy on Synthetix.FM to no cover unfinished demo/WIP/previews etc, I decided to break this rule with the rockin new Ward-IZ track 'Night Mission' as even though it's listed as being a preview it is available for download in this form. And this form it totally rockin to the max! The high energy is kept high and the melodies soar with beautiful 80s nuance. Get on it while you can!




A new rocker for Synthetix.FM is Varier and his kick arse new tune 'Dynamic Processing'. The mix of modern and slightly ChipTune influenced sounds complement a delightfully emotive 80s progressions and lead into some very interesting passages. Varier is just beginning his 80s synth journey and I look forward to experiencing more of it in the future.




The Neon Vandal is smashing up all kinds of action in his great new track 'New Wave Funk'. Channelling just enough Paul Hardcastle the synths rock with a salacious groove that is undeniably infectious. I really love the use of vocals and samples in this piece, totally rockin.




One of Silent Gloves and myself's closest bonds is our deep love for Michael Cassette's Temporarity album from 2010, which is still one of the greatest albums released thus far the bridges vintage and modern sounds in a very individualised way. Silent Gloves taken his homage one step further and released a new two track EP that is directly inspired by this record and given the at Silent Gloves magic touch that we so dearly love. Both tracks are totally kick arse and available to purchase via Bandcamp here.




Alter Sun continues to impress with his atmospheric and emotional synth compositions. 'When The Sun Goes Down' is his latest track and the journey is epic and full of 80s wonder. The progression of the story is executed with much dexterity and the three chapters are beautifully realised.




The talent of Sebastian Gampl continues to impress this week with no less than two incredibly beautiful pieces of classically styled 80s synth work being shared by this exciting producer. 'As Time Goes By' manages to be full of sentiment and emotional investment without becoming strictly synth romance while 'Clara' goes head over heels in love with an intimate aural love letter. You can pick up a copy of 'As Time Goes By' via Bandcamp here.




Unleashing all manner of electrifying synth magic is Pulse 80 with his killer new tune shared this week entitled 'Staunton'. The in-your-face production is just totally rockin and the melodies resonate deeply within the synthscape. A massive track that is also currently available for FREE download.




Riddlis has come up with something rather special in his new piece titled 'Alaska'. Taking a break from the usual synth surrounds of neon lit city streets we take an invigorating journey into the heart of the wilds of Alaska. The synthscape sparkles with natural beauty and conveys a vast open landscape of limitless possibilities. Structures ebb and flow with natural grace and are all encompassing in their brilliance. Top work, Riddlis!




Our final track this week is actually form 1991 but has only just been released. Krzysztof Duda is a Polish artist who has been making synth music since the 80s and continues to produce as well as share his older work that has often times, such as this, remained unreleased. '4 Miles 2 Davis' was written in memoriam of Miles Davis by Duda just before his funeral. The tones and progressions of this piece and stunning to behold, and the mastery of Krzysztof Duda is evident throughout. Twenty three years on, it's still rockin to the max.





Our video feature this week is the official video for Room 8's 'Visions Of You', which takes future romance to all new levels of technological endeavours amid a pastiche of neon colours.



That does it for another Weekend Update on Synthetix.FM. I'll be back during the week with Kasia for more rockin tunes from the 80s inspired synth scene, but there won't be a Weekend Update next weekend as I'll be taking a break over the long weekend here in Australia.

'Til then, stay 80s and keep on rockin.

Synthetix Weekend Update

I'm back with another big Weekend Update to make your 80s neon glow that little bit brighter.

The first order of business on the agenda is the fantastic new compilation release from Retro Promenade, AKA Who Ha and his marvellous new multimedia edition of Class Action Volume 2. This not only has a spectacular range of the scene's most rockin producers but also the second issue of the Retro Promenade magazine. The magazine itself is full of kick arse interviews and reviews as well as panel discussion on 'The State of Synthwave' in which I was lucky enough to partake in. This comes as a FREE .pdf when you pick up the compilation or can be purchased as a physical edition too.

Your entertainment value with this package (that also has the compilation available on cassette!) is astronomical, so get on it and rock it hard.  Many kudos to Mike Who Ha for making this project happen. You can pick up a copy of the compilation/magazine/artwork/cassette in all manner of combinations via Retro Promenade's Bandcamp page here.

Let's put our seats into the take off position, buckle the seat belts tight and prepare to hurtle into the wide blue yonder with this week's Airborne releases!

Kalax - Outlands - Kalax's second EP finds the producer expanding on the soundscape created in his first EP, Journey, and constructing a wonderfully involving conceptual soundtrack theme. Outlands is a cautionary tale set in a dark future consisting of fast action-oriented cuts and also mellower pieces that allow for Kalax's melody's to soar beautifully. The structures are built solidly and make for expansive synthscapes and deliver a cohesive narrative, complete with vocals on two of the tracks performed by Dana Jean Phoenix and electrifying duet with Blokkmonsta that transcends genres, languages and decades.


Waveshaper - Sounds That Kill - Another concept EP, this time from Waveshaper and his super rockin new creation Sounds That Kill. In all honesty, one of the lines from the EP's description sums this up perfectly: "This is a story of a man whose only weapons are his synthesizers and a woman who fights by his side". The tracks are all beautifully written and create massive amounts of atmosphere and even contains a superb collaborative piece with Robert Parker. Waveshaper just keeps on continuing to impress and this EP sure does exactly that.


LA Dreams - Light Speed  - LA Dreams keeps on rockin like the 80s synth juggernaut we know and love in his new album Light Speed. Easily one of his most accomplished records yet, there is a marked improvement in his arrangements and his breadth of instrumentations. Each track is absolutely glowing with pure 80s love and is a genuine delight to experience. This will be LA Dreams last album for a while as he stated he is spending some time working on collaborations in the near future. I'm hugely looking forward to what this will entail, and will be sure to share these works on Synthetix.FM when they happen.

---------------------------------------------------

Phaserland's rockin some smoothly cool synth pop sounds with Nikki on his great new song 'Hot Stunner'. This is one of the great tracks on the new compilation from Wave Runner Records called Running All Night. This features a tonne of Synthetix.FM favourites and some rockin new pieces like this great track. You can pick up your copy of 'Hot Stunner' with a plethora of other synthwave gems on the Running All Night compilation available on Bandcamp here fore FREE.

A different kind of smooth next with the massively atmospheric soundtrack piece 'Border Control' by DATAstream. The depth of narrative in this track is absolutely immense and really creates a totally immersive synthscape. Many thanks to respected synthficionado Alexandre Lemoing for enlightening me to this producer.




Flash Arnold's riding atmospheric waves of soundtrack synth beauty too of late and with his hot new rocker 'Deserted Streets'. The build is huge and packed with excitement as synths from the bowels of the earth open up with caustic vigour and unquestionable power. This is currently available for FREE via the download button in the player.




An new EP is coming soon from Killstarr and 'Summer Drive' has been released as the promotional track for it. This sweetly orchestrated experience of soft pink Synth Romance is beautifully gentle with emotive progressions and sumptuous melodies. 'Summer Drive' is available for FREE download via the player too.




Short but sweet, any hot new track from Miami Nights 1984 is going to get your pulse racing and your appetite hungering for more. This snippet was shared recently and is rife with MN84 magic. I'm assuming I'm hoping 'Reflex Training' marks the start of a journey to a new album from this veteran of the scene.




Keeping things 'definitely Miami' is the hot new track from Miami Beach Force: 'Robotic Assassin'. The combination of rockin Italo vibe synth melodies and crushing guitar riffs makes for a very interesting combination of sounds that is rather captivating and almost hypnotic in its power.




Python Blue certainly knows how to rock with his new track 'Welcome To The Club'. Marching drums lead into rifftastic guitars and synths add the final layer of melodic brilliance. Though usually working on the more atmospheric side of soundtrack synth this track is full of raucous energy and beautiful 80s colours. Currently available for FREE download via the link in the player.




I simply can't stress enough how much I love guitars in 80s inspired synth music and with Sayak Striker's new track 'Hot Run' we get even more love for rockin guitars and synths duelling in a rhythmic ballet of high emotional excitement. Totally k-rad to the max.




One of the best names I've come across in the scene in recent times has to be Repomancer and his hot new soundtrack themed piece Midnight Special certainly makes you sit up and pay attention. The opening builds to an epic synth lead that is then taken in very cool new directions throughout the composition's chapters.




Riddlis shared two tracks over the last couple of weeks I really enjoyed but 'Clouds' is definitely something  special. The melodies in this remind me of classic early 80s synth experiences. The intentional distortion in the piece does take me, personally, out the experience a tad but the strength of the lead melody carries the magic on beautifully. You can also pick this up currently for FREE via the download button in the player. Also check out Riddlis' rockin 'Children' track which came out recently too here, and is also up for FREE download.




One of my favourite tracks of the last week is definitely Kid Quasar's 'Disco Radio Action'. The energy is absolutely kick arse and I love his modern take on the Electro Breakin' styles with  some very imaginative arrangements and superb sample work. Get on this ASAP as it's currently available for FREE download.




The new track from Batch Sound is another gem I just can't get enough of this week. 'The Cheesy Alternative' is another grand jam packed with hot synths and on point 80s percussive details. This is available as a single release on Bandcamp here with an edited version and also a piece they did for Beyond Synth. Totally rockin.




Dialling things back to a more contemplative ambience is the delightful new track from Pulse 80 entitled 'V I C E'. The atmosphere on this gets bigger and bigger as huge synth leads rise and fall with machine gun hip hop percussion igniting the combustible elements into a searing synth fireball. Currently available for FREE download also.




Trevor Something's moody and suave synth pop experiences keep evolving and achieving glorious new heights with each track. In 'SEGA Genesis' the airy synth melodies and haunting vocals are moulded into alluring new shapes and forms, using one of gaming's greatest consoles as the inspiration.




Pure Secks have been on my radar for a couple of months now and their odd mix of sounds and styles is something I've found very engaging. In 'Science Friction' the Pure Secks sound becomes are tad more crystallised as the sample laden synthscape gets tied together in a totally rockin piece of classic 80s eclecticism. Available currently for FREE download via the player also.




The final piece I'd like to share with you for this week's Weekend Update is something I found both totally rockin and very special. My love affair with Sternrekorder's wonderful music has been well documented on Synthetix.FM over the last couple of years but I have no real idea about him as a composer or producer outside of experiencing his music directly. Although I knew Sternrekorder has been a part of the scene since the early days in the late 2000's I had no idea how far back his music went. I've now found out a little bit more about his history courtesy a new track this week that is an unreleased track from 2002. This piece veritably comes alive with delightful 80s colours and it brings me much joy to discover Sternrekorder's definitely one of the modern synth artists that will be around for the duration.



That does it for another Weekend Update on Synthetix.FM. I'll be back during the week with more hot rockin tunes from the 80s inspired synth scene. 'Til then stay 80s and keep on rockin.

Synthetix Weekend Update

Welcome to this week's Weekend Update on Synthetix.FM. There's a hot new show in town, rockin every Sunday on Radio Pure Gently titled Synthwave Sundays hosted be longtime scene devotee Marko Maric. Marko's programming great tunes from the 80s inspired synth scene every week and is also doing a lot of interviews with the most rad producers. Check out the link to Radio Pure Gently on the right hand side bar for local times when it airs and make sure you catch up on the previous episodes. Synthetix.FM is honoured to be a supporter of this initiative and looks forward to a bright neon future with RPG and Synthwave Sundays!

In other news in four days the Kickstarter for Nick Sabia's Valrosa Beach ends and is still requiring a large portion of money required to make it become a reality. This movie is combining a whole mess of quality 80s influences and a lot of exciting techniques for using pixel art effects in the video. Get behind this project and dig deep to make this happen! Click here to check out their very in depth Kickstarter page for lots more info.

AIRBORNE This Week

Timecop 1983 - Childhood Memories - Hot on the heels of his wonderful debut, Synthetic Romance, is another stunning release from Timecop 1983. Filled with more emotive synth beauty and featuring the great 'Timescapes' collaboration with Femmepop. Rock the limited edition cassette release asap!!

Yannis Rianta - City Whispers - Smooth and sensual synth pop with a penchant for the funkier side of things. City Whispers is full of 80s homage and some exceptional songwriting sure to create the right kind of warmth right where you need it. Highly recommended for fans of Chromeo's late night work.

Goldbaum - Goldbaum - Mixtures of vintage and modern sounds collide with this eight track album covering a myriad of synthscapes. From early 80s European styles through to hard action ChipTune coloured pieces. Lots of great ideas are presented on this album, definitely a producer I'll be watching.

 --------------------------------------------------- 

Time to get drifting and dreamy with the great new track from She Said (Judge Dredd) 'Sara'. The synthscape is alive with electrifying passages with a production that is raw and passionate. Haunting and stunning in it's delivery, an enlightening experience. 

Robert Parker is quickly becoming one of my favourite new producers in the scene. His grasp on the subtleties of 80s sounds is incredibly tight and each new track I hear from him is even more inspirational than the last. 'Great Expectations' is currently available for FREE download too.




It's been a while since we've had some honest to goodness Ninja Synth on Synthetix.FM so it brings me great pleasure to share with you the latest tune from Danas Vision entitled 'Kung Fu Master'. This homage to the classic video game is rife with Eastern synth magic and martial arts thrills and spills. Currently available for FREE download.




Nearly a year's time has elapsed between track from Alexino on his soundcloud but it's definitely been worth the wait as his new piece, 'Under The Dome'. Reminiscent of the likes of Tommy in many respects this track keeps emotions deep and melodies rich with languid gait that feels like a slow motion embrace.




Waveshaper's got his action rockin with much power in his new track 'To The Top'. Huge melodies are built upon with tidal force, marching into new horizons with a single minded determination. Inspiring and uplifting this track is sure to take you over the top!




While Betamaxx was digging around in his vast collections of music he uncovered an older track previously unshared. He remedied this situation by uploading 'Heated' this week and making it available for FREE download. Totally rockin 80s vibes and Betamaxx magic out the ying yang on this gem.




Block35 is a new producer to Synthetix.FM of whom I know very little aside from the fact their new track is totally rockin to the max. 'Chasing Trams' evolves it's melody with delicate nuance into soaring dimensions of brilliance. This piece is thoroughly beautiful in it's presentation and tone and I encourage you to get out there and give some love to Block35. You can pick up a copy of this wonderful experience on the Block35 Bandcamp page here at a name-your-own-price point.




Pulse80 and Quasars have joined forces and created a spectacular new work entitled 'Invisible Meridians'. Sumptuous space synth atmospheres are explored with hugely catchy melodies and luscious leads. It's many passages are entrancing and captivating, really giving both producers full license to take to the stars. Currently available for FREE download this track is a must-have experience.




PH Groove keeps on rockin sensational Italo vibes in his killer new track 'Arcade Feel'. As is always the case with PH Groove's music the bassline is funky and the synths are sweltering in an epic tale of dancefloor passions. Infectiously structured for maximum groove penetration this piece is currently available for FREE download.




Taking Italo synthscapes right back to the classic sounds is the great new song from Blue Star Project 'Open Your Heart'. From the orchestral stabs to the classically delivered vocal this right on the mark for sparking of that Italo magic into a blaze of 80s magic. A Radio Edit as well a totally kick arse Extended Version are available at a name your-own-price point.



Kicking the drama into high gear is the killer new jam from Laurence McFunk: 'California Gasoline Commando'. Building like a storm this saga of good versus evil in the wastelands of tomorrow rocks harder than a melonfarmer in it's vast soundtrack odyssey. Available for FREE download currently too.




Any time is the right time for some sexxxy sax action and Super Vox's hot new 'Sax Theme' gives us lots to love. Tropical Italo vibes lead the way for the cool night time, with cool breezes coming in from the coast, buoyed by bouncing melodies and that sweet sax




Manolis continues to blow my mind and expand his horizons with every new track he shares and 'The Bait' continues this trend. Incredibly lush synthscapes and tightly packed details just brimming with glowing 80s love. Polished to a mirror chrome finish this track is k-rad to the max and is also available currently for FREE download to boot!




Pyramid Aeon is defining his own sound more and more as we travel with him on his 80s musical journey. 'Better Days' find his sound taking some very inspiring cues from modern and vintage elements to create something rather special. The piano refrain is one of the real highlights of the experience but the full excursion is massively rewarding. Available for FREE download via Pyramid Aeon's Bandcamp page here.




Another debut producer for this week's Weekend Update is Australia's own Kick Puncher with his brooding Dark Synth track 'Highway Knight'. This rocker certainly knows how to combine the magic of 70s horror soundtrack synth and heart pumping pulsations of 80s denominations.





Another hot collaboration this time with Tommy and Sally Shapiro rockin some intimate and delicate disco coloured synth pop magic. 'Why Did I Say Goodbye' has a fabulous air of 2010 about it's presence that is still intoxicating with the blend of old and new sounds always sounding fresh and vibrant.




Our video feature for this week's Weekend Update comes from Germany's Puls with their amazing new song 'Du Gehst'. These rockers are totally killing the 80s rock synth sound to the max and I'm sure your pulse will be racing in no time with this superb music video. You can download a copy of this kick arse song via their Facebook page here too. Many thanks to Action Jackson for enlightening me to the Puls magic!



That does it for another Weekend Update on Synthetix.FM, I hope you've found some great new music to make your weekend rock that 80s love just a little bit more. I'll be back during the week with more exciting music from the 80s inspired synth scene, 'til then stay 80s and keep on rockin.

Synthetix Weekend Update

Moving into our Halloween Week Weekend Update on Synthetix.FM we find lots of ghoulish gems from the 80s inspired synth scene rising from their cold tombs with an insatiable lust for blood.

The Synthetix.FM Rhythm Vivisection Halloween Mixtape will be unleashed on Wednesday the 30th of October (this is Australian time, mind, it'll be the 29th in the U.S and EU) in time to hopefully be used as part of your soundtracks at your Halloween events. This mixtape is going to be epic in length and diversity, so prepare yourself now for the ensuing brutality.

A new radio show has cropped up covering some of the 80s inspired synth producers going by the name of Radio Pure Gently. In the current episode they spend some time with Berndsen and Le Chat Et La Fille among other artists, get on their feed on Radio Pure Gently site here.

In other radio show related news I was honoured to be a guest on KFAI's Synth Waves show this past week. Myself and Noah 'BenniMushu' Kaufman had a marvellous time discussing music and the scene and playing some killer tunes. You can listen to this broadcast on the Synth Waves site here. I'm also very pleased to confirm that I'll be appearing on Synth Waves once a month with an ongoing segment called 'Rick's Picks' where I'll present three of my favourite tracks from recent releases as well as some gems from the distant and not so distant past. This should be lots of fun and I'd like to thank Noah for this kick arse opportunity.

The radio show action keeps on rockin with  Beyond Synth interviewing Dana Jean Phoenix this week. It's a great interview that gives us a much more detailled picture of Dana as an artist in her own right with her prolific work in many areas of vocal performance. Check out Andy Last's chat with Dana Jean Phoenix here.

Time to open the heavens and cast down the armageddon fury from beyond reality with the new Synthetix Weekend Update on Synthetix.FM!


Kicking things out into the stratosphere is the incredibly beautiful new track from RF Extreme. 'Lighter Than Air' is a gorgeous piece of wistfully engaging synth romance, that speaks volumes in soft tones that build to a victorious finale. RF Extreme's craftsmanship in building an experience is so poignantly displayed in every second of this piece, it's a truly rapturous journey.




Not wanting to leave the mood of 'Lighter Than Air', the next track continues the beauty with Time/Switch's 'Silent Running'. This is my first experience of the of Time/Switch synthscape and I must say it's a rockin on. Smooth melodies and a wonderfully well explored narrative make for a very alluring musical journey. This track is available to own at a 'name-your-own-price point too.




Cobra Copter keeps on rockin hard and his new track 'Vegas Nights' combines beauty and action with a funky streetwise lead melody that means business. The Cobra Copter experience is always an exciting one and 'Vegas Nights' definitely reinforces this from beginning to end.




Jupiter Gang have been one of my favourite electro funk producers for the last couple of years, but sometimes it's a long time in between drinks with their music so when a new track is released it's always a red letter day. With the Gang's new track, 'Nostalgy' we get tonnes of rockin funk action packaged in a jazzy 80s format that flows with infectious rhythms and sublime homages to vintage sounds. It does finish a tad abruptly, but as it's available to buy I'm assuming this was the artists intention.




I'd previously covered the spectacular Highway Superstar remix of Peter Robinson's 'Why'd You Go And Break My Heart' and now we have the pleasure of getting the original plus an array of other hot remixes in it's full release. The original mix is absolutely charming with the spectacular vocals performed by Cheryl James combining with Peter Robinsons authentic synth work. There is a winsome air about this original vision that feels very authentic and is then taken in new directions in the remixes.



And what a line up of remixes there are!! Such a rockin original definitely deserves this amount of reimaginings and we're left with very few possibilities unrealised. A total of eight remixes take this song into modern and vintage retellings via the talents of  Highway Superstar, Pelifics, Vincenzo Salvia, Dallas Campbell, Peter Ellis, Shint, Mental Minority and Evanton. Theres disco, funk, house, italo and some even harder edges of the musical spectrum explored. The fact that all of these remixes rock is a testament to how kick arse the original song is and makes this single a must-have purchase for every fan of quality 80s synth pop sounds.


More new blood for Synthetix.FM, this time a producer using the monicker Neon Rebel. From his soundcloud it looks like he's just beginning his 80s musical journey but his sounds are definitely rockin already. 'Renegade' is a darker piece that canters at a slowed down OutRun pace and brings equal portions of action and drama. The length of the track allows for full exploration of the ideas and is sure sign that Neon Rebel will have many more intriguing stories to tell in the future. Many thanks to Corey Benedict for enlightening me to this producer.




Russia's Pulse 80 has graced us with another shining gem of vintage synth love 'Cruise Along The Night Coast'. The mood is calm and relaxing with a languid nature to the synths that intimates the freshness of he coastal breeze and the slow rise and fall of the rolling currents. Beautiful work again from this producer, who has also allowed this track to be available for FREE download.




Another new act on the scene is a duo from Sweden calling themselves 'Miami Beach Force'. Their music definitely likes rock with high energy as their latest track 'Highway Chase' is unrelenting in it's speed and intensity. The drama is kept high and the synths refuse to give any quarter as the ultimate fate for the hunter and the prey explodes in an orgy of neon violence.

 

The new track from Foreign Blade certainly moves into darker reaches of government cover ups and all manner of covert operations in 'Cybernetic Implant Installation Procedure'.  Melodies are cool and aloof with a highly detailled percussive track sharpening the focus. The mood is restrained, yet the threat of forces beyond our control never seem far away throughout this track. This is currently available for FREE download too.




Next up is the hot new EP from NightStop succinctly titled Fuel. Across the three pieces on this release we get to experience NightStop's take on 80s sounds via 'L.A. Heat', 'Fuel' and 'Harrison Ford'. The sounds are a combination of OutRun and italo flavours with a penchant for the dramatic and a flair for the epic as each of the three compositions are separated into new visions and ideas. Each track rocks hard, and as an even more radical bonus you can purchase this release on my favourite format: cassette! Get your copy of this asap through the link in the player below.



More new blood is ready flow as the Synthetix Weekend Update ventures into more salaciously erotic territory with the new track from Charlez Bronson beautifully titled 'Future Tits'. I'm not pulling any punches when I say the visionary video they've created for this video is supplying much of the magic, but as a two pronged attack on the senses the visual and audio combines into a highly exciting mix of old and new. Be sure to follow these rockers on their soundcloud page here for more rad action.


Future Tits ( . )( . )( . ) from Charlez Bronson on Vimeo.



To finish of this week's Weekend Update is gives me great pleasure to be able to share the brand new Neros77 video for Lazerhawk's Skull + Shark track. The master editor has spliced together visions from Jaws and The Fog to create a new nightmare that is full of spine tingling moments and night terrors. The result is the perfect companion to the title track from Lazerhawk's new album. Keep all the lights on in this one, you never know whats hiding in the shadows.






That does us for this week's Weekend Update on Synthetix.FM. I'll be back during the week with lots more rockin action from the 80s inspired synth scene, providing more soundtracks to your darkest nightmares.

'Til then, stay 80s and keep on rockin.

Synthetix Weekend Update

Aaand we're back!! Rockin the 80s with a modern flavour, Synthetix.FM is back on deck and ready to take off to the raddest dimensions with the magical sounds from the most tubular superstars in the galaxy!

Before we take off to adventure I've got some special plans for Halloween on Synthetix.FM. Starting today I'm taking submissions for the inaugural Synthetix.FM Rhythm Vivisection Halloween Ultra Mix! For the next two weeks, with the cut-off date being the 27th of October, I'll be looking forward to hearing your most horrifying synth creations and from this pool of bloody remnants, resurrecting them into a huge mix of nightmares and demons to provide you with the ultimate soundtrack for your Halloween festivities! The music should be 80s inspired synth of any denomination but of course the darker side is what I'm needing. Giallo Disco, Dark Synth, Slash Electro and even more ambient pieces are the order of the day, but being creative and adding your own flavour to the experience is what it's all about.

This is not a contest, nor is there a guarantee your track will make the cut but I'll certainly endeavour to include as many chapters of darkness as possible. The tracks submitted don't have to be new or exclusive but they must be your own work, that said, covers are also fine.  To submit your track simply use the Contact Form on the left hand column of this page. 

The Synthetix.FM Rhythm Vivisection Halloween Ultra Mix will go live on the 30th of October with a special edition of Synthetix.FM. The mix will be downloadable so that you can rock it all night long during your Halloween festivities. I'm looking forward to this project, as I hope you are also, and I hope we can make this one hell of a kick arse Halloween soundtrack!!

I'll be sure to post an update about this project in the next weekend. Now, lets get rockin with the new Super Jumbo Sized Weekend Update on Synthetix.FM!

First up is a hot new rocker on the scene going by the name of Trevorsomething. His latest song 'All Night' is a supremely moody homage to darker side of synth pop sounds. The vocal track is haunting with a story of substance abuse woven into a cautionary tale with a downward spiral being the only path to travel. Shades of Visage resonate throughout the music and really make for an incredibly kick arse ambience. Trevorsomething is someone I'll definitely be following ardently in the future.




Combining forces into a supernova of synth scintillations are STARFORCE and Tommy with their new epic, 'Interstellar'. The melodic beauty of both of these talented composers is allowed to bloom in to visions of vibrant colours and stunning synthscapes. The purity of this track is undeniable, it's essence is something unquestionable wondrous. Currently available for FREE download through the player.




More kick arse new music from Phaserland next. This producer's been releasing music for the last year on soundcloud but in recent months has found the love for 80s sounds and his new track rocks the retro sounds with much panache. 'Night Talk' is a slow burn that creates a salaciously steamy atmosphere full of hot sounds and tempting melodies. This piece of sultry synth erotica is best served with ice, on a warm night with the volume set to the most intimate of levels.




RF Extreme continues to hone his musical skills in each successive outing and for his latest track he's returned to luxuriant tones of Synth Romance in 'The Eyes Of Fantasy'. The melodic structure are light and hopeful with an air of longing about them. The driving rhythm section gives the experience a really purposeful direction, allowing for each passage to expand further on the story.




It's been a while since we had some honest to goodness Transformers inspired tracks on Synthetix.FM and it pleases me greatly to have Lazerpunk!'s 'Death Of A Hero' to right this injustice. Lazerpunk! has created an exceptionally atmospheric adventure that rocks on in a most satisfying manner with set pieces in all the right places while retaining a reverence throughout the leading melodic refrain.




Russia's Pulse 80 has been rockin the classic 80s sounds for quite a while now, but I've only become aware of his work recently. The sounds he creates are totally rockin the authentic 80s vibes and with his new track, 'Old-Skoolin' he's managed to recreate some kick arse electro funk breakin' beats. From the excessive hand claps to the hooky bassline this is pure killer. Be sure to grab a copy of his FREE Best of 2013 EP here for more beautifully authentic 80s inspired synth sounds.




One thing I really love about Mitch Murder's music is that you only need to hear about three or four seconds of it to know it's him. His individualised sounds are instantly recognisable, which is definitely a  rarity in the scene and is one of the reasons he's so respected and loved. With his latest piece we find Mitch Murder again creating synth magic strung from golden tones and magical melodies. 'Killer Angels' features a modicum of drama set amidst a flurry of exciting passages. The master does it yet it again.




I was all set to post Dr Pecco's awesome Denim Python and then the Doctor released something extraordinary yesterday that I just had to cover. 'October' featuring Jonah on vocals is a spectacular R&B groove that mixes old and new elements with stunning results. The vocal tracks is vastly impressive whilst the music keeps as soulful edge but also manages to get a bit dirty too. Dr Pecco just keeps on rockin.




Highway Superstar is back with an ambient atmospheric epic entitled 'The Road To Alpha Centauri'. The music is allowed to flow of it's own innate volition with glacially epic presence while the instrumentations are kept in a bright formations of celestial power with intimate details audible throughout the stars. Moving and invigorating throughout.



I previously reviewed Sam Haggblad's 'Never Say Never' in it's three track form on Synthetix.FM , and that release has now evolved into an eight track affair that provides even more kick arse Italo gold from this modern day master of the genre. The previously released three tracks are joined by three more originals and a cover of Queen's 'Back Chat'.  The combined talents of Haggblad and singer Johanna Liljegren make for the the most authentically rockin Italo experience this side of 1986 with arrangements, instrumentations and production engineered for complete 80s accuracy.

 This is a must-have release for all fans of 80s inspired synth that endeavours to genuinely recreate the classic sounds with a pure heart and total respect for the retro sounds. In this longer format Never Say Never is an explosive flash of why Italo sounds are so engagingly 80s from beginning to end.



Droid Bishop is back for the attack with his new experience in sci-fi synth entitled 'The Outlander'. I really enjoyed Droid Bishop's Electric Love EP and this new track continues his adventures into the future with powerful star flight into unknown regions of the cosmos. The drama never threatens to become over wrought with the melodies becoming more jubilant and uplifting as the story evolves.



Continuing through a similar channel in space-time but in another dimension is the hot new track from Dallas Campbell. 'Outrunners Theme' is the theme to the Outrunners online comic, available for your perusal here and is the second track I'm aware of being used in this production from the 80s inspired synth scene (NFD Music's 'Infiltration' also being part of the experience). Dallas Campbell has fabricated an anthemic space synth piece that is most definitely 80s in design and make up but also includes some more 70s inspired progressions. He certainly makes both worlds work exceedingly well together in this dramatic tale of love, hate and adventure.



Another new artist to Synthetix.FM is Falconhoof. This British producer's sounds are certainly kicking much arse and his new track 'Falconh Attitude' is set to bursting point with 80s love. The music feels like a mixture of Beverly Hills Cop era Faltermeyer combined with a healthy dose of Synth Romance, creating a heady experience in good times and great rock'n'roll. Falconhoof definitely has the love and the skills, I'll be looking forward to hearing more from him in the future.



Speaking of good times and great rock'n'roll the new Plaisance track is full of both. This high energy homage to the Dolphins greatest quarterback is full of intense synth action and lovingly crafted with that Plaisance magic we absolutely love on Synthetix.FM.  This track is available at a 'name your own price' point through Bandcamp, so get on it and rock it!


LA Dreams keeps on bringing in new elements and inspirations into his vast repertoire of 80s soundscapes and his most exciting of late is 'Battle Graffiti Kids'. The electro breakin' sounds are complemented by layers of percussive details and held together by a melody that is 1000% pure LA Dreams.  Totally rockin.



Introduced to me by the always radical Noah 'BenniMushu' Kaufman is another new act to Synthetix.FM, the glorious Flamingo Drive. Their track 'Flamingo Drive Theme' as absolutely enrapturing in it's glorious beauty. The synthscape is full of magical passages and lovingly crafted details and it's emotional investment is inspiringly deep. This is the world famous Satin Jackets' pure 80s side project and I for one can't wait for more music from them.



Noir Deco's sounds are coming thick and fast in 2013 as his return to the scene was heralded initially by a short YouTube teaser has now escalated into a juggernaut of high calibre synth firepower. His new track, 'Rasalom' inspires with it's gigantic atmosphere and  epic narrative that will keep you on the edge of your seat from beginning to end. The soundtrack flavoured pieces from Noir Deco have always been one of his strong points, on 'Rasalom' this theory is bolstered even further.



Clusterbuster from Norway is another new rocker on scene with a love for 80s sounds and penchant for more dramatic experiences. 'Welcome To Camp Crystal Lake' is Clusterbuster's homage to Friday The 13th and whilst it does contain darker elements it's more OutRun oriented than pure dark synth. The pace is as exciting as melodies and are arranged to keep excitement levels redlining in the danger zone.



A new act who's music really effected me is Shklovsky & Pale Blue Dot featuring Line with their song 'Sunset Eyes'. The 80s love courses through this ambient synth pop exposition and takes on ingenious new forms with the ghostly vocal track. The arrangements are avant garde in their construction which adds even more mystery to the haunting soundscape.



The final piece this this week's Weekend Update is a totally rockin new video by Dan Fisk, Heath Saunders and Dani Mueller. This is their submission of the ABC's of Death for the letter M. 'M Is For Mothers Against Drunk Driving' features two classic tracks from Carpenter Brut and turns a night of alcohol excess into a night of excessive violence. Great work from these guys!!


M is for Mothers Against Driving Drunk from Heath Saunders on Vimeo.

That does us for a huge Weekend Update on Synthetix.FM. Remember to contact me through the email contact form on the left hand side of this page with your submissions for the Synthetix.FM Rhythm Vivisection Halloween Ultra Mix.

I'll be back with regular updates through the week, 'til then stay 80s and keep on rockin!