By Rick Shithouse
Exploring the textures, sounds, emotions and flavours of 80s music is something I'm hearing more and more producers do in their work. New experiences and retellings of those kick arse 80s sounds are always welcome on Synthetix.FM and in Robert Parker's latest record we get to hear another new dimension to this great producer's work. This time Parker parks his synths on Wall St. and gets thoroughly into an 80s library mode. I've got to say; the matching of Robert Parker's talents with this oh so golden genre of 80s sounds makes for a spectacular record.
The pure 80s library sounds push the 80s-ness of music into an entirely new level, even beyond that of Italo's wondrous trappings. Some Library in its more soulless guises threatens to become muzak in some cases but in its most refined form it really captures the 80s magic in eloquently majestic ways. Robert Parker's used the thematic of 80s high finance mixed with his own soaring, inspirational sounds and layered it with a piquant air of solid Library gold to take the listener into wonderfully rich and luxurious synthscapes.
It seems like the perfect match of sounds as the emotive melodies of Robert Parker's previous work get moulded into chintzily delightful incidental music and then expanded into full, detailed stories. The selection of synth sounds is perfection, uncluttered and sharp passages peppered with zesty aural seasonings to make the flavours pop, creating an explosive sound bite you just can't resist. I find this form of 80s inspired synth music is very inspirational and provides unseen visions that accompany the stories. You just can help but see quick cuts of suited men rushing across town, hailing that cab, getting the wink from his secretary as he enters the office and then finishing on that freeze frame fist pump as he hangs up the phone on his desk and seals the deal. Just another day at the office and Robert Parker's there providing the soundtrack.
Money Talks isn't afraid to eschew the purity of upbeat library sounds in favour of more introspective explorations and cuts like 'Cosmopolitan Collection' do a great job of getting out into the fresh of air of the night on your apartment balcony after trading futures and foreign exchange deals during daylight hours. That energetic hustle and bustle of the world of high finance gets captured succinctly in 'Showtime', 'Business As Usual', 'Work It!' and the market hammering 'Negotiations' but Parker knows when to take a break and pull those red bracers down, loosen the tie and get down to some passive bonds between two highly valued properties. It's not just the prices that rise in the steamy, sweat drenched passages of 'A Head For Business, A Body For Sin', that's for sure.
Robert Parker's foray into this cut throat world of high finance ends up being something that inspires and enthrals. The excitement, pleasures and suaveness of this idealised lifestyle is sublimely captured through each piece and makes for a thoroughly complete experience. I love that in 2015 there is still so much 80s musical inspiration still laying undiscovered and when, like Robert Parker, you strike gold, you just can't deny how refreshing, entertaining and totally rockin the music is.
Robert Parker presents the Money Talks album on his Bandcamp page here in the usual array of digital formats and, unsurprisingly, it comes very, very highly recommended from Synthetix.FM.
Showing posts with label Robert Parker. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Robert Parker. Show all posts
Tuesday, June 23, 2015
Thursday, April 9, 2015
AIRBORNE
Abelard - Meta Valley
By Jerry Herrera
Existing between an incredibly catchy midtempo dance EP, and a pained meditation on the two dimensionality of modern life, Abelard’s Meta Valley EP strikes a very deep, if a bit funky chord within me. It’s wonderful night driving music that reminds me that I am, in fact, driving alone. Musically, it’s infinitely pleasing to the ear, and for that reason alone it is simply a Must Listen but in listening you’ve only completed half the journey. You have to let Meta Valley speak to you.
'In the Rain' is full of fat retro basses and satisfying claps, with glittering synths cascading all around the track. It’s an easy going, feel good track that continues on a predictable pace until the end where we hear a snippet of a phone conversation. A man and woman look forward to seeing each other, yet their voices are deadened and hollowed by their medium of speaking. The title track picks up again, happily. With a bassline that is reminiscent of Sussudio and instruments and vocal snippets layered absolutely sky high, the music is absolutely bursting with synth joy. Yet interspersed among the breezy waves and funky keys are some heartbreaking moments from Pretty in Pink. The juxtaposition would be absolute genius if the impact didn’t hit me right in the gut. Out of context, the words in the argument between father and daughter ring true for many people, for many reasons.
'Cheap Talk' is powerfully lush and funky and I almost blew out my eardrums because the composition of the track just compels you to crank up the volume. Using distorted vocals from a BB&Q song called 'On The Beat' Abelard creates an impossibly catchy vaporwave dance track. It’s fun and joyous and really evokes the feeling of being lost at the club, in a sea of party people having a good time. Only, aren’t you just lost at sea, and are you really having a good time? 'Look Around You' featuring Cade is a slower, spaced out song that features melancholy vocoded vocals. It’s an alien made R&B track musing about love and loss, and perhaps something more permanent and terrible than a breakup. Taking us directly away from whatever low, sad place the last track left us, 'Dance In Space' features more distorted vocals (this time from a Carmen track called 'Time To Move'), clavs, cowbells and so many snares and claps that one really must resist the urge to get up and dance. To move from one emotion to another takes a bit of work but the emotional rollercoaster I found myself on is one of the most intriguing things about Meta Valley.
A bit of teenage uncertainty from the movie Girls Just Want To Have Fun opens 'Waiting By The Window'. Again, Abelard creates truly catchy retrowave but also at work is something deeply affecting. The music and little vocal clips are a springboard into a pool of the listener’s own emotions and memory, and that’s always been what drew me into retro synth, but Abelard crafts that springboard without forcing nostalgia or introspection. It’s, as I mentioned, a brilliant yet humble juxtaposition of two themes that triggers an inner dialogue.
'Edie’s Theme' closes out the Meta Valley EP and like 'Look Around You', is markedly more melancholy than the other songs. The vocals are barely intelligible, but there is laughter and crying and conversation and rants; it’s human noise beneath the uneven heartbeat of a machine. It’s an odd, meandering song that is possessed of a unique, static filled beauty.
Abelard crafts a fascinating facsimile of our world, one where the cracks in the facade are equally visible as what we see at face value. There is a perception of humanity, that is what we see online and in commercials and print ads, what we are supposed to believe about ourselves and each other, that doesn’t quite make sense. Because the reality of humanity is that we’re flawed and cracked and heartbroken people. We don’t really interact the way people do in the Coca Cola commercials or the multi-million dollar music videos. But rather than attack the corporate image machine, Abelard suggests through his music that we embrace each other and understand that the breadth and depth of human emotion eclipses any neatly packaged, focus grouped slice of “life” portrayed on TV. As I said, if I’m just judging the music, this is one of the most luscious, listenable, crank the volume EPs I’ve heard this year. But that’s just looking at the surface. There is so much emotional content to be enjoyed if you just do as Abelard is asking, and look deeper.
Abelard presents the Meta Valley EP, which is available on his Bandcamp page here, and is very, very highly recommended by Synthetix.FM.
Nightboat – Freedom Of The Night
By Chris 'Python Blue' Day
The new release from Nightboat, Freedom Of The Night, proves they're definitely ahead of the game. The album as a whole has a very fun atmosphere despite the moody title.
'86 Prom' and 'Freedom Of The Night' both easily give an impression of the Pet Shop Boys just before they moved into trance music, while the other two tracks in the EP are nice downtempo songs to unwind to, especially 'Dream Sequence', a song that also has a nice touch of fretless bass alongside the usual electronic sounds.
Each track is also admirable because, unlike for some other producers, including myself, Nightboat seems reluctant to keep repeating the same chord progression (and even key) over and over in a track, which does well in being original and keeping a listener’s attention to the piece even after a minute or so in, especially as the changes actually flow very well in the tracks.
Nightboat’s Freedom Of The Night comes very highly recommended by Synthetix.FM, and is available on his Bandcamp page here.
Robert Parker - Cardinal
By Matthew Neophytou
Hitting a us with a full force of disco-infused synth is Robert Parker’s Cardinal. Anyone who loves their retro tunes lined with synth and kicked with funk will certainly fall head over roller-skates with this EP.
Title track “Cardinal” lines us up for some synth train action, hitting the ground on the first second. Instantly, you can't help but want to get in on the distorted rhythm but just wait 'til the guitar hits - expect the playfulness to really shine on this one without losing the grasp on production. “Run” is what we were most probably expecting from at least one of the tracks off the last Daft Punk album. Filtered vocals edge the grinding melody at an active pace creating a raw piece of electronic music that kicks with raw sounds bouncing on a dotted beat.
“Flashback” reigns things in for a gentle skip base, with a weave of synths that string the track together into a cool Malibu-esque evening soundtrack. “Waiting” accompanies the previous track perfectly, maintaining the coolness yet upping the groove with funky notes and a beat that just won't let you go.
“Fortress” leads us off in a synergy of Synth and thumping beats, a guaranteed repeat-player on anyone’s playlist. Telefuture presents Robert Parker – Cardinal rightly deserves a very, very highly recommended from Synthetix.FM for his melding of synth disco that is as retro as it is refreshing. Available for name your price at Telefuture's bandcamp page here.
Occams Laser - A Sides
By Rick Shithouse
Occams Laser has been featured numerous times in my Quality Time With Shithouse picks on Synthetix Sundays and this producer has just released a new EP titled A-Sides which gives us a great new spin on his musical ideas and refines the Occams Laser sound deeper.
The theme employed for this EP is having each track titled with the letter 'A' but the concept goes far deeper than this ephemeral tie in as the four tracks tell a wonderful story as one experience. Beginning with the mood setting 'Atomism' shades of the opening theme from Escape From New York introduce a carefully constructed but cautious scene. The synths used on this EP are all from the same palette in and in this Occams Laser forms a vivid stylistic direction that then works through the melodic structures and ties them together more and more as the story progresses.
The second track, 'Alacrity' continues, initially, as morosely as the opening track but this time Occams Laser introduces brighter and lighter details to push the shadows back ever so slightly. The sweet nuances of the flutey synths add a great deal to the story and the interplay between the shining details carries the track into a warm tonal space.
Track three continues in a similar vein that offers a great deal more positivity in the melodies and the story continues to add more and more colour to the rising passages. The pace of all these tracks is kept to a very similar speed however, and this plodding, almost down beat rhythm adds even more impetus to the melodies' trials and tribulations.
The final track of the EP is really a climactic point that all three previous tracks seemed to be leading us to. 'Alterity' has a spectacularly evocative synth lead that climbs further and further into the heavens as it unfolds. Having this as the final piece elevates it even further as a genuine sense of triumph reigns over the synthscape.
Occams Laser continues to hone his synth craftsmanship in every successive release and in A-Sides he's definitely reached a new level that ties together numerous ideas and packages them as a complete story. This EP is definitely something that requires listening to in one complete session to appreciate its narrative, and I encourage you to do so and pick up a copy on his Bandcamp page here.
Wednesday, February 4, 2015
A Neon-Bathed and Synth-Saturated Valentine's Day
By Michael CA L
With Valentine's Day around the corner, there's a specific category of song within the 80's-influenced spectrum that deserves all the tender loving care and devotion that our eardrums can give. The category falls under several names, but is most often described as Synth Romance or the Synthwave Slow Jam. The many 80's-influenced music genres that exist are diverse in their sonic qualities, broad in their effects on the listener, and are not required to adhere to any structure more rigid than the need to contain some foundational elements that pervade music from that golden era of the synthesizer. A Synth Romance track, however, invariably provides the listener with a song that is slower in pace, sensual and atmospheric in character, and romantic in tone and feel.
With Valentine's Day around the corner, there's a specific category of song within the 80's-influenced spectrum that deserves all the tender loving care and devotion that our eardrums can give. The category falls under several names, but is most often described as Synth Romance or the Synthwave Slow Jam. The many 80's-influenced music genres that exist are diverse in their sonic qualities, broad in their effects on the listener, and are not required to adhere to any structure more rigid than the need to contain some foundational elements that pervade music from that golden era of the synthesizer. A Synth Romance track, however, invariably provides the listener with a song that is slower in pace, sensual and atmospheric in character, and romantic in tone and feel.
Here's a list of
ten of my favourite hand picked, neon-bathed, synth-saturated and passion-infused Synthwave Slow Jams to come out over the last several years. They are by no means in any
particular order, and I have to add that narrowing this list down to just ten
items was one of the more excruciating endeavours of this retro synth-lover's writing
career. But what remains here on this list are some of my absolute favourite experiences. Dim the neon lights, light some candles, gaze lovingly
into the eyes of your special someone, and press play.
 |
Mitch Murder
Glass Cities (2012) [EP]
"Last Call" |
 |
Mr. Maen
Slow Love (2014) [EP]
"Slow Love" |
 |
Le Cassette
Left to Our Own
Devices (2014)
"This is All We Know" |
 |
Timecop1983
Waves (2014)
[EP]
"Tonight" |
 |
Sellorekt/LA
Dreams
Nostalgia (2012) [EP]
"Westbound on the Train" |
 |
The Dust
Collective
Synthia (2014)
"Synthia" |
 |
Duett
Touch (2014) [Single]
"Touch" |
 |
Phaserland
Electric
Atlantic (2014)
"Kissing in Berlin" |
 |
Robert Parker
Modern Moves (2014) [EP]
"Sunset Stroll" |
 |
Mitch Murder
Interceptor (2014)
"Traces to
Nowhere"
|
Saturday, November 15, 2014
Synthetix Sundays
Just cause Marko's touring the U.S on a synthwave odyssey it doesn't mean there's no Synthetix Sundays! Filling in for Marko over the next few weeks will be RPG's own The Right Reverend Larry Lang, The Larry Lama (Lawrence Lang) rocking your world with 80s inspired synth magic.
Quality time with Rick Shithouse returns this week as well as Paul "Dress To Kill" Daly with his 100 Followers or Less segment as well as Larry's own aural delectations.
Synthetix Sundays airs on Radio Pure Gently at 10am EST/3pm UK/GMT/12pm AEDST time which is one hour earlier than usual.
Synthetix Sundays will be on every second Sunday while Marko's away and as usual the full show as well as the Quality Time With Shithouse free, purchasable and feature tracks will be added to this post on Monday.
Quality Time With Shithouse free, purchasable and feature tracks:
Wednesday, July 30, 2014
Kasia's Secret Diary
By Kasia
Sunday, 1st June, 2014
Timecop 1983 (featuring Dana Jean Phoenix) - Dreams
With you
I feel like I am living in a dream
Everything is possible and everything depends on me
I can do whatever I want
Only I can set the boundaries
And only I can break them.
All my wishes and thoughts can come true if I just want it
I feel like your beautiful sounds are giving me magical power
And letting me finally break all the walls in my head
I used to be trapped in my mind's limitations
But I am not anymore, and you are the reason
We all have dreams
And deep down we know what is best for us
Just believe in yourself and always follow your heart
Time flies..
Door's open...
Away goes the past, it's okay...
You wanna go...
There is no turning back...
The world is yours!
Monday, 24th March, 2014
Mosaik - Sky Fighter
So the fight is ON!
But you know what?
I am not afraid.
Not at all
Because you are here with me
And this is our shared fight
We stand shoulder to shoulder
Me and you...
Against the world...
Against all odds
The more I listen to you
The more sure I am that we can win this battle
Together we can defeat the bad things
And we can find the biggest treasure
Happiness and peace.
It's worth fighting for
Keep up the spirit and dont give up
We are the best pilots of our lives
We decide where to fly
And no matter how far away we are
We can always change direction
We are skyfighters!
Sunday, 8th December, 2013
Robert Parker - Unfinished Symphony
There is something good about unfinished things
You still have a choice
And you still have the chance to make it the way you want it to be
Nothing is decided yet
The options are endless.. you just have to pick a path to follow
There are some sort of mysteries and uncertainties
Every sound makes me feel more and more excited
I want to know and I don't want to know how it will end at the same time
Our story is like an unfinished symphony.
A neverending story
But has it even started yet?
In case it has, I have to write my own ending
Maybe the stars will give us the answer...
Sunday, 1st June, 2014
Timecop 1983 (featuring Dana Jean Phoenix) - Dreams
With you
I feel like I am living in a dream
Everything is possible and everything depends on me
I can do whatever I want
Only I can set the boundaries
And only I can break them.
All my wishes and thoughts can come true if I just want it
I feel like your beautiful sounds are giving me magical power
And letting me finally break all the walls in my head
I used to be trapped in my mind's limitations
But I am not anymore, and you are the reason
We all have dreams
And deep down we know what is best for us
Just believe in yourself and always follow your heart
Time flies..
Door's open...
Away goes the past, it's okay...
You wanna go...
There is no turning back...
The world is yours!
Monday, 24th March, 2014
Mosaik - Sky Fighter
So the fight is ON!
But you know what?
I am not afraid.
Not at all
Because you are here with me
And this is our shared fight
We stand shoulder to shoulder
Me and you...
Against the world...
Against all odds
The more I listen to you
The more sure I am that we can win this battle
Together we can defeat the bad things
And we can find the biggest treasure
Happiness and peace.
It's worth fighting for
Keep up the spirit and dont give up
We are the best pilots of our lives
We decide where to fly
And no matter how far away we are
We can always change direction
We are skyfighters!
Sunday, 8th December, 2013
Robert Parker - Unfinished Symphony
There is something good about unfinished things
You still have a choice
And you still have the chance to make it the way you want it to be
Nothing is decided yet
The options are endless.. you just have to pick a path to follow
There are some sort of mysteries and uncertainties
Every sound makes me feel more and more excited
I want to know and I don't want to know how it will end at the same time
Our story is like an unfinished symphony.
A neverending story
But has it even started yet?
In case it has, I have to write my own ending
Maybe the stars will give us the answer...
Thursday, July 24, 2014
AIRBORNE
Kristine - The Deepest Blue
By Shazeb Bhatti
Kristine’s newest EP, 'The Deepest Blue', is probably one of her finest releases yet. I felt as if she really took her work to the next level with this. The EP consists of essentially one track, 'The Deepest Blue' that was then sub-sequentially remixed by a plethora of quality synth artists.
The original track, mastered by Synthetix favorite Highway Superstar, sounds more 80s than a lot of Kristine’s other work. Perhaps it’s the perfectly done synth sound or maybe even her beautifully raspy vocals, but the track sounds straight out of 1983. 'The Deepest Blue' features uplifting synth schemes, an inspired guitar set, and a wonderful vocal progression- the kind that gives you chills if you listen intently enough.
The Miami Knights 1984 remix of 'The Deepest Blue' is also definitely worth taking a look at. The track, unlike remixes in general today, actually builds upon the original and gives it a deeper twist by emphasizing the feel-good synths. Props to Miami Knights because their remix is legitimately well-crafted, and thought out and therefore deserves to be heard!
Buy The Deepest Blue here on iTunes
Alpha Boy - Beverly Hills
By Sam Häggblad
Alpha Boy is back, stronger then ever with his album Beverly Hills. On this release he iis doing all kinds of styles from funk - to more deep thoughtful pieces.You can really hear the passion for the 80's in his tunes, coming across loud and clear. Beverly Hills is a super gem that is crushing down like a burning comet in the midst of summer and Alpha Boy is giving you a perfect balance between uptempo party rockers and some more ”get into” romantic stuff. I really have to applaud Alpha Boy for the production on this album which is super good.
'Deadline' kicks off the album with a cozy bassline. A really slick ambient track. Definitely an evening track that gets you in a great mood and then is followed by 'Refreshing', this track is perfect for a day with your boombox at the beach, or if you want to boost your ego a little bit while walking down the strip with your walkman. It has the perfect summer vibe and groove we all love so much. A really rocking drumbeat, with a great bassline and smooth keyboards on top. One of the best summer hits so far this year. The saxophone just makes it top notch.
Get on your bikes and ride with 'BMX ’83'! This is a really slow, romantic track. Great for relaxation as the lead saxophone works together with the piano and makes for the perfect lobster dinner song! Love it! Now I just want to throw myself out of that stargate! 'Daily News' starts off with a slow keyboard intro but a snare fill takes you right into one of those hopeful ”you can do it” feelings. Love the lead keyboards on this one. Once again, a great bassline that takes you to an arpeggiated climax at the end!
Once again Alpha Boy shows that he can master the funk grand style on track five: 'Talkman'! A real fat bassline with a great groove. That saxophone just makes you fall in love with this track. 'Harbour Transactions' is a really groovy ambient track that puts me in the Axel F mood. Once again superb bass and saxophone, and I can’t help myself falling in love with those lush e-pianos over and over. Super! One of my favorites on the album is 'Department'. As a drummer i can’t help falling in love with the beats and that ”in your face” snare! It has this awesome ”Lets do it!” feel, with really smooth keyboards on top. The final track 'The End' is a good closer that sums up everything thats good on the album, great drums, great lush keyboards on top and some real groovy bass and saxophone.
A favourite aspect of this EP from my point of view is production, since i think its so accurate and 80s sounding. I think everybody who knows me knows Im a sucker for that true old 80s mixing sound, (as a refference go check every italo track produced beetween 84 -85). And its hard to walk that fine line, not falling in the gimmick or tribute spot when staying true to the sounds we love. Thats why I think its so important to evolve those sounds at the same time. Ill be completely honest with you, it's bloody hard work to get a mix sound fresh and not mouldy and at the same time retro rocking. Thats exactly what Alpha Boy is doing to perfection on this album.
It's so fresh and the high-end frequencys sounds so good. Usually with some releases like this I get fed up with too much high-end in the mix that's just there to make stuff glossy. Not at all with this release, it's just perfect. The amount of high-end just blends in with the low-end perfectly making those low-edge basses etc come forward and sound really crisp and strong. Alpha Boy has really set a new
mixing and mastering standard in the scene which I can only hope more producers will take to heart and keep evolving. Great work Alpha Boy!
To sum it all up, a must have for all you fans of summer-party, vice styled synthpop! Go check it out, and you will be in for a long hot summer this year, top notch stuff.
Wizard Lady Bros - Stay Sexy EP
By Rick Shithouse
A really kick arse surprise I discovered recently was the auspiciously titled The Wizard Lady Bros and their Stay Sexy EP. This combination of vintage and modern sounds combined with really rockin songwriting and arrangements have made for a great little EP that goes into the quirky sides of 80s sounds with relish. The synth pop stylings have driving funk behind them courtesy of the guitars and basslines with the opening track 'Human Jeans' being smooth as silk. The falsetto vocals are delicate and characterised beautifully throughout the EP and take on a vastly entertaining aspect in the epicly catchy anthem 'The Bros'.
The title track, 'Stay Sexy' bring in more drama and night moods as synths become sultrier and the temperatures rise totally rockin guitars reminiscent of an 80s classic that is on the tip of my tongue but refuses to come to mind. Definitely the highlight of the EP, this track is gentle when it needs to be and a sexual powerhouse at just the right times for maximum enjoyment when the chorus brings on sequential climaxes. The final track is the galloping synth beauty of 'Foxy Mulder' that creates tension and intrigue in a heartfelt homage to the X-Files.
I'm really taken by The Wizard Lady Bros reinvention of 80s sounds and the instruments used. The songs a arranged magnificently well, which makes me think they (or he) has been writing musical for quite a while and this is not their/his first release. I hope the journey into 80s sounds continues for The Wizard Lady Bros as this EP is totally rad and leaves the door open for all kinds of 80s destinations in the future.
Robert Parker - Modern Moves EP
By Edward Kidd
I think Robert Parker’s mind inhabits the same 80s world as mine; a place where everyone is lounging on a beach in a white linen suit and pink pastel t-shirt, smoking a cigar, sipping a mojito and enjoying the smooth sound of a DX7 electric piano.
80s inspired Swedish producer, Robert Parker’s new 5 track EP, Modern Moves, takes you just that bit closer to this world, inviting you to sit back and let the synth waves wash over you.
Released on the effortlessly cool Future City Records, Modern Moves opens with a mid-tempo driving track, cryptically titled Velour Virtues. Apparently ‘velour’ is a kind of knitted fabric? Was velour big in the 80s? Is Parker some kind of 80s knit-wear aficionado?
'Velour Virtues' opens with a big bass-line pushing it forward, and a funky picking guitar gluing it together. Cool hand-claps, disco toms and a silky DX7 electric piano breakdown take this track home to a big synth-lead solo finale.
'Velour Virtues' is a strong opening track that establishes a palette of sounds and production values Parker keeps consistent with the next cool instrumental, 'Bayside Boogie'. The groove gets going with a nice quick-paced picking muted guitar, synth pads and thick bass. A sweet saxophone riffs over the top with a very catchy melody, proving Parker’s skills as a composer, as well as producer.
Next up, sharing its title with the EP, is 'Modern Moves'. Again, Parker uses discoey drums and Nile Rodgers-esque synth guitars to underpin big synth-lead solos that demand attention. This is very much travelling music in my mind. There’s a real sense of journey and adventure in this track, and Parker knows how to keep things moving, evolving and driving forward harmonically and structurally.
The penultimate track, 'Phaser Peril', introduces an arpeggiating synth, and more lush leads. Using bass to create suspense, this track concludes with a synth brass melody that again, evokes a late disco feel.
Parker brings Modern Moves to a close with a slow-jam that happens to be the highlight of the EP for me. Sunset Stroll opens with a silky beat and warm synth pads that blend with funky palm guitars, synth strings and a jazzy electric piano that’s so smooth and relaxing, you might be in danger of falling asleep at the wheel of your Ferrari.
The late disco sounds and authentic early 80s grooves in Modern Moves, make this a highly recommended summer must for boys and babes looking to blast their boom-boxes on the beach.
Wizard Lady Bros - Stay Sexy EP
By Rick Shithouse
A really kick arse surprise I discovered recently was the auspiciously titled The Wizard Lady Bros and their Stay Sexy EP. This combination of vintage and modern sounds combined with really rockin songwriting and arrangements have made for a great little EP that goes into the quirky sides of 80s sounds with relish. The synth pop stylings have driving funk behind them courtesy of the guitars and basslines with the opening track 'Human Jeans' being smooth as silk. The falsetto vocals are delicate and characterised beautifully throughout the EP and take on a vastly entertaining aspect in the epicly catchy anthem 'The Bros'.
The title track, 'Stay Sexy' bring in more drama and night moods as synths become sultrier and the temperatures rise totally rockin guitars reminiscent of an 80s classic that is on the tip of my tongue but refuses to come to mind. Definitely the highlight of the EP, this track is gentle when it needs to be and a sexual powerhouse at just the right times for maximum enjoyment when the chorus brings on sequential climaxes. The final track is the galloping synth beauty of 'Foxy Mulder' that creates tension and intrigue in a heartfelt homage to the X-Files.
I'm really taken by The Wizard Lady Bros reinvention of 80s sounds and the instruments used. The songs a arranged magnificently well, which makes me think they (or he) has been writing musical for quite a while and this is not their/his first release. I hope the journey into 80s sounds continues for The Wizard Lady Bros as this EP is totally rad and leaves the door open for all kinds of 80s destinations in the future.
Robert Parker - Modern Moves EP
By Edward Kidd
I think Robert Parker’s mind inhabits the same 80s world as mine; a place where everyone is lounging on a beach in a white linen suit and pink pastel t-shirt, smoking a cigar, sipping a mojito and enjoying the smooth sound of a DX7 electric piano.
80s inspired Swedish producer, Robert Parker’s new 5 track EP, Modern Moves, takes you just that bit closer to this world, inviting you to sit back and let the synth waves wash over you.
Released on the effortlessly cool Future City Records, Modern Moves opens with a mid-tempo driving track, cryptically titled Velour Virtues. Apparently ‘velour’ is a kind of knitted fabric? Was velour big in the 80s? Is Parker some kind of 80s knit-wear aficionado?
'Velour Virtues' opens with a big bass-line pushing it forward, and a funky picking guitar gluing it together. Cool hand-claps, disco toms and a silky DX7 electric piano breakdown take this track home to a big synth-lead solo finale.
'Velour Virtues' is a strong opening track that establishes a palette of sounds and production values Parker keeps consistent with the next cool instrumental, 'Bayside Boogie'. The groove gets going with a nice quick-paced picking muted guitar, synth pads and thick bass. A sweet saxophone riffs over the top with a very catchy melody, proving Parker’s skills as a composer, as well as producer.
Next up, sharing its title with the EP, is 'Modern Moves'. Again, Parker uses discoey drums and Nile Rodgers-esque synth guitars to underpin big synth-lead solos that demand attention. This is very much travelling music in my mind. There’s a real sense of journey and adventure in this track, and Parker knows how to keep things moving, evolving and driving forward harmonically and structurally.
The penultimate track, 'Phaser Peril', introduces an arpeggiating synth, and more lush leads. Using bass to create suspense, this track concludes with a synth brass melody that again, evokes a late disco feel.
Parker brings Modern Moves to a close with a slow-jam that happens to be the highlight of the EP for me. Sunset Stroll opens with a silky beat and warm synth pads that blend with funky palm guitars, synth strings and a jazzy electric piano that’s so smooth and relaxing, you might be in danger of falling asleep at the wheel of your Ferrari.
The late disco sounds and authentic early 80s grooves in Modern Moves, make this a highly recommended summer must for boys and babes looking to blast their boom-boxes on the beach.
Sunday, June 15, 2014
Synthetix Weekend Update
Time for another rockin Weekend Update on Synthetix.FM! This week has a witnessed the beginning of the FIFA World Cup and in celebration Werkstatt Recordings has garnered a roster of quality synth talent to release a great new World Cup themed compilation titled Soccer Wave: The Road To Glory.
Not since New Order's World in Motion have synths and football been so tuned as one as the likes of Plaisance, Fixions, Foreign Blade, Shio-Z, Nitelight and many more hot rockin synth producers take to the pitch and quest for victory. You can pick up a copy of this great release on Werkstatt Recording's Bandcamp page here, so it can be your complete soundtrack to this epic sporting event.
Now get ready to take off to adventure with this week's AIRBORNE feature releases!
Sferro & Tommy - Matters Of The Heart Joining forces and enlisting even more killer talent we find Sferro & Tommy combining their magical synth magic in this great little EP. The opening title track is a sumptuous synth pop vista of luxurious 80s textures and emotions with a sultry vocal courtesy of Yota. 'Rapture' brings the dreamy melodies of Tommy into focus with arrangements given a glossy layer of Sferro synth magic. These two totally rockin tracks are accompanied by remixes of each from Cassette Club and Rex Ronan to finish off an already stellar experience in 80s inspired synth beauty.
Nemix - Electromechanical Nemix has released his debut EP which contains five tracks of high energy synth rockin that crosses genres and decades with very interesting results. Much of his melodies come across as heavily 80s influenced whilst the arrangements are engineered to maximise drama where necessary and then lull back into emotive pastures. 'Human V20' provides a delicately pieced together work of Synth Romance while still keeping a very modern/futuristic technological vibe, which is very intriguing. Stand out tracks also include the totally rockin 'City 2084' and 'Forbidden
Labs' which sounds like it should be on a Castlevania soundtrack.
Manolis - At My/Her Place Manolis is back with a superb new two track release that is a wonderfully explored concept in Synth Romance intimacy. At My/Her Place is a two track affair exploring synthual relationships in different environments between two people. The differences in being with the same person in differing spaces is beautifully illustrated via Manolis's incredible musical talent. Subtlety and understatement allow for wonderfully tender moments through both beautifully constructed tracks. A stunning release and a shining example of a simple concept given immense depth.
Kicking off this week's Weekend Update tracks is Cobra Copter who's rockin some serious action in his latest track 'Ultimate Ninja'. The stealthily understated opening chapters lead into full silent assassin overkill with great progressions and a lead refrain that is full of synth ninja magic. I'm sure Godfrey Ho would be proud to have this piece on a soundtrack to any of his superb ninja cinema masterpieces.
I'm becoming more and more impressed by the work of Alter Sun of late. His latest track really rocks some quality 80s vibes and with equal portions of Paul Hardcastle and Harold Faltermeyer combining into a feel good holiday vibe full of bright colours and warm sunshine.
Coming in right on track for the my next feature mixtape for International Boombox Day (more on this next week) is the great new electro rockin piece from Pulse 80 titled 'Sweet Groove'. Huge percussion highlights right on point 80s melodies in a jam that's sure to make your woofers wallop and your tweeters twitch. Currently available for FREE download via the link in the player.
A new rocker for Synthetix.FM now with Tetrahominoid and his totally kick arse track 'Convoy'. The electro rockin is turned up to maximum in this track with a chorus that is catchy far beyond the legal limits. Kick arse work and I hope to cover more Tetrahominoid tracks on here in the future.
It's great to have Dream Fiend rockin a kick arse new original tune with 'Lockdown' this week. The melodic journey this tracks takes the listener on is stunningly detailed and full of lush 80s sounds and produced with a sparkling coat of neon gloss.
There is definitely ardor in the air this week as yet another stunning Synth Romance track this time from Mooginizer and his wonderfully constructed piece 'Take Her Home'. The music moves through some intriguing chapters as Mooginizer really makes the percussion work in extraordinary ways to highlight the magic of the lead melody. Currently available for FREE download, get on it ASAP.
Another piece of music that is stunningly assembled is the new track from The Northern Lights going by the name of 'Indigos'. The presence created is immense and full of emotional nuance. There is a tactile mix of power and delicacy that is breathtaking. A wonderfully involving piece of music.
Steve Moore is a legend of 80s inspired synth music and it's fantastic that his stature has been recognised by Capcom as he's contributed kick arse music for the just released Dead Rising 3 DLC pack, extravagantly titled Super Ultra Dead Rising 3 Arcade Remix Hyper Edition EX + Alpha which brings a tonne of revered Capcom character designs into the Dead Rising universe. This track is currently available for FREE download, also.
RF Extreme's brand of emotive synthual pleasures is one I'm always excited to partake in another slice of and with 'Path Unknown' those sweetly delicious flavours are once again baked to perfection and iced with dreamy neon colours. The journey is deep and enriching and swells with great beauty.
Although it's policy on Synthetix.FM that i don't cover preview/demo tracks (I'd much prefer to wait until they are fully completed to give them proper exposure) I couldn't resist including the latest track by one my of favourite new producers of 2014, the ever impressive Sebastian Gampl with 'Chicago'. Though listed as a 'teaser' I'm not sure how else this wonderful piece of music will evolve as it is incredibly impressive as it stands. The best news is that Sebastian Gampl will be a releasing an album before the year's end so I figure this track (and his also rockin 'Freedom Fighter' track) might be the last time we get to hear from him for a while.
Robert Parker's really got the creative juices flowing this week with another great electro breakin' synth odyssey for your delectation. 'Spin' is full of nods to classic breakdance music while glowing with that beautiful Robert Parker magic. This is also available currently for FREE download too.
Fantastisizer is back with a hot new track titled 'Mirror Of You'. Haunting melodies providing an hypnotic and spacious synthscape that creates a hazy, dreamlike vision. The focus of the melody remains unchanged throughout but it's the atmospheres that are adapted and eventually brought to stunningly climactic final chapter that make the experience magical.
Myrone continues to redefine my love for 80s inspired synth music as he once again rocks harder than melonfarmer in his latest guitar and synth extravaganza: 'Heating Up'. This explosive, high octane thrill ride is packed with shredding, wailing, ripping and rockin all night long. Available for FREE download you NEED this piece of music in your life as loud and as often as possible. Be sure to check out Myrone's collaborative work with Max LeRoy, 'That's It Man' also released this week as a FREE track.
A live action fan project to make an accurate live-action version of AKIRA has secured the ever rockin Le Matos to make the soundtrack as rad as possible. 'Kiyoko' is a track to be featured in this project (which you can get sneak peak of here) and is a quality blend of classic 80s sounds and modern arrangements done in that classic Le Matos style. It's definitely the perfect audio accompaniment for the visuals, that's for sure. I'm certainly looking forward to how this project evolves as, like many of you reading this, I'm a huge fan of the original AKIRA animation.
This weeks feature video is for the long awaited new record from Mitch Murder. Synthetix.FM is officially on the hype train for this release as full length Mitch Murder experiences are always created with the highest calibre weaponry available and polished to a mirror finish. We've been promised physical copies of this album courtesy of Mad Decent including a vinyl release, which will definitely be making one of my long-term 80s inspired synth dreams come true. The album is due out the end of July, so expect more news and full coverage of the release as it gets closer, for now this beautifully animated album trailer for Interceptor will have to suffice.
That does us for another Weekend Update on Synthetix.FM. I'll be back during the week along with Kasia for more musical explorations in the world of 80s inspired synth music.
'Til then, stay 80s and keep on rockin.
Not since New Order's World in Motion have synths and football been so tuned as one as the likes of Plaisance, Fixions, Foreign Blade, Shio-Z, Nitelight and many more hot rockin synth producers take to the pitch and quest for victory. You can pick up a copy of this great release on Werkstatt Recording's Bandcamp page here, so it can be your complete soundtrack to this epic sporting event.
Now get ready to take off to adventure with this week's AIRBORNE feature releases!
Nemix - Electromechanical Nemix has released his debut EP which contains five tracks of high energy synth rockin that crosses genres and decades with very interesting results. Much of his melodies come across as heavily 80s influenced whilst the arrangements are engineered to maximise drama where necessary and then lull back into emotive pastures. 'Human V20' provides a delicately pieced together work of Synth Romance while still keeping a very modern/futuristic technological vibe, which is very intriguing. Stand out tracks also include the totally rockin 'City 2084' and 'ForbiddenLabs' which sounds like it should be on a Castlevania soundtrack.
Manolis - At My/Her Place Manolis is back with a superb new two track release that is a wonderfully explored concept in Synth Romance intimacy. At My/Her Place is a two track affair exploring synthual relationships in different environments between two people. The differences in being with the same person in differing spaces is beautifully illustrated via Manolis's incredible musical talent. Subtlety and understatement allow for wonderfully tender moments through both beautifully constructed tracks. A stunning release and a shining example of a simple concept given immense depth.
---------------------------------------------------
Kicking off this week's Weekend Update tracks is Cobra Copter who's rockin some serious action in his latest track 'Ultimate Ninja'. The stealthily understated opening chapters lead into full silent assassin overkill with great progressions and a lead refrain that is full of synth ninja magic. I'm sure Godfrey Ho would be proud to have this piece on a soundtrack to any of his superb ninja cinema masterpieces.
I'm becoming more and more impressed by the work of Alter Sun of late. His latest track really rocks some quality 80s vibes and with equal portions of Paul Hardcastle and Harold Faltermeyer combining into a feel good holiday vibe full of bright colours and warm sunshine.
Coming in right on track for the my next feature mixtape for International Boombox Day (more on this next week) is the great new electro rockin piece from Pulse 80 titled 'Sweet Groove'. Huge percussion highlights right on point 80s melodies in a jam that's sure to make your woofers wallop and your tweeters twitch. Currently available for FREE download via the link in the player.
A new rocker for Synthetix.FM now with Tetrahominoid and his totally kick arse track 'Convoy'. The electro rockin is turned up to maximum in this track with a chorus that is catchy far beyond the legal limits. Kick arse work and I hope to cover more Tetrahominoid tracks on here in the future.
It's great to have Dream Fiend rockin a kick arse new original tune with 'Lockdown' this week. The melodic journey this tracks takes the listener on is stunningly detailed and full of lush 80s sounds and produced with a sparkling coat of neon gloss.
There is definitely ardor in the air this week as yet another stunning Synth Romance track this time from Mooginizer and his wonderfully constructed piece 'Take Her Home'. The music moves through some intriguing chapters as Mooginizer really makes the percussion work in extraordinary ways to highlight the magic of the lead melody. Currently available for FREE download, get on it ASAP.
Another piece of music that is stunningly assembled is the new track from The Northern Lights going by the name of 'Indigos'. The presence created is immense and full of emotional nuance. There is a tactile mix of power and delicacy that is breathtaking. A wonderfully involving piece of music.
Steve Moore is a legend of 80s inspired synth music and it's fantastic that his stature has been recognised by Capcom as he's contributed kick arse music for the just released Dead Rising 3 DLC pack, extravagantly titled Super Ultra Dead Rising 3 Arcade Remix Hyper Edition EX + Alpha which brings a tonne of revered Capcom character designs into the Dead Rising universe. This track is currently available for FREE download, also.
RF Extreme's brand of emotive synthual pleasures is one I'm always excited to partake in another slice of and with 'Path Unknown' those sweetly delicious flavours are once again baked to perfection and iced with dreamy neon colours. The journey is deep and enriching and swells with great beauty.
Although it's policy on Synthetix.FM that i don't cover preview/demo tracks (I'd much prefer to wait until they are fully completed to give them proper exposure) I couldn't resist including the latest track by one my of favourite new producers of 2014, the ever impressive Sebastian Gampl with 'Chicago'. Though listed as a 'teaser' I'm not sure how else this wonderful piece of music will evolve as it is incredibly impressive as it stands. The best news is that Sebastian Gampl will be a releasing an album before the year's end so I figure this track (and his also rockin 'Freedom Fighter' track) might be the last time we get to hear from him for a while.
Robert Parker's really got the creative juices flowing this week with another great electro breakin' synth odyssey for your delectation. 'Spin' is full of nods to classic breakdance music while glowing with that beautiful Robert Parker magic. This is also available currently for FREE download too.
Fantastisizer is back with a hot new track titled 'Mirror Of You'. Haunting melodies providing an hypnotic and spacious synthscape that creates a hazy, dreamlike vision. The focus of the melody remains unchanged throughout but it's the atmospheres that are adapted and eventually brought to stunningly climactic final chapter that make the experience magical.
Myrone continues to redefine my love for 80s inspired synth music as he once again rocks harder than melonfarmer in his latest guitar and synth extravaganza: 'Heating Up'. This explosive, high octane thrill ride is packed with shredding, wailing, ripping and rockin all night long. Available for FREE download you NEED this piece of music in your life as loud and as often as possible. Be sure to check out Myrone's collaborative work with Max LeRoy, 'That's It Man' also released this week as a FREE track.
A live action fan project to make an accurate live-action version of AKIRA has secured the ever rockin Le Matos to make the soundtrack as rad as possible. 'Kiyoko' is a track to be featured in this project (which you can get sneak peak of here) and is a quality blend of classic 80s sounds and modern arrangements done in that classic Le Matos style. It's definitely the perfect audio accompaniment for the visuals, that's for sure. I'm certainly looking forward to how this project evolves as, like many of you reading this, I'm a huge fan of the original AKIRA animation.
This weeks feature video is for the long awaited new record from Mitch Murder. Synthetix.FM is officially on the hype train for this release as full length Mitch Murder experiences are always created with the highest calibre weaponry available and polished to a mirror finish. We've been promised physical copies of this album courtesy of Mad Decent including a vinyl release, which will definitely be making one of my long-term 80s inspired synth dreams come true. The album is due out the end of July, so expect more news and full coverage of the release as it gets closer, for now this beautifully animated album trailer for Interceptor will have to suffice.
That does us for another Weekend Update on Synthetix.FM. I'll be back during the week along with Kasia for more musical explorations in the world of 80s inspired synth music.
'Til then, stay 80s and keep on rockin.
Sunday, May 25, 2014
Synthetix Weekend Update
In the short space of a year it has been wonderful to see the huge increase in physical releases in the 80s inspired synth scene. I once thought it was a fantasy to be able to own my favourite releases on cassette or vinyl (I'm not a CD collector) and in 2014 it has become a far more regular occurrence. As a fan nothing beats 'owning' a part of an artist you follow, the music industry in general is in danger of removing this vital link between the artist and their audience with digital downloads and streaming services, becoming something an entire generation will just take as a convenience.
Music shouldn't be convenient. It shouldn't be something we become flippant about and just assume will always be there for us. We as fans need to make investments in those making the music, this entirely the reason why Synthetix.FM came about, to get that connection between the music makers and their potential audience. Being able to have a connection with a an album via a physical representation of that work is a tactile and emotional experience that is hugely special and is something that makes the music a much more permanent part of what the music means to us.
The two business models that I see working very well currently are the pre-order and then the re-issue. The upcoming Perturbator release through Telefuture Records is a superb opportunity to really hype up this auspicious release. Perturbator has a larger following than many in the scene and the excitement associated with owning a prestige format physical release with all the extras is very enticing. You can preorder a copy here, which I highly encourage.
The other method, which I see as a very attractive model for minimal initial outlay is what Highway Superstar has just done. If you head on over to his Bandcamp page here you'll find a whole bunch of rockin merchandise and physical copies of his magnificent Take My Time album from last year. The genius of this kind of model is releasing the physical version six months after the digital release is a far less risky decision based on how the record has sold as well as bringing those special albums back into the audience's psyche.
When was the last time you listened to Take My Time? A month? Two months? More? But the fond memories for this kick arse record are now part of your musical memories and the chance to now own it in a physical format and revisit those golden moments is something I find massively attractive. I'm quite happy as a fan to buy an album digitally, fall in love with it, and then fall in love with it all over again with a version I can enjoy a whole other level. The 80s inspired synth scene's music has the wonderful quality of being timeless, meaning a reissue of an album from even five years ago would be something I'd certainly be willing to pay for. Who wouldn't want to own Mitch Murder's Current Events on vinyl? Or Tommy's Outer Space Adventurer in a premium format? This model serves as the perfect opportunity to bring that magic back where it belongs.
I'd like to personally congratulate all the rockin labels out there who are now releasing physical versions of the talent they have on board. To Werkstatt Recordings, Girlfriend Records, Playmaker, Future 80s Records and all the other labels and independent producers out there making my musical fantasies come true; I salute you, and hope that physical releases are a mainstay of the 80s inspired synth scene. Be sure to check out the links to these labels and more in the links section on the right hand side of this page and have a browse around, you never know what you'll find and what you might have missed. Also, get rockin on the Facebook group Synthwave Cassette Club here for more hot info and news.
And remember: if you don't buy them; they WILL go away.
Time to get rockin with some music that'll be sure to get you feeling the G's as we pull out of a nose dive into a spectacular barrel roll with this week's AIRBORNE feature releases!
WARD-IZ - The Chase EP Australia's WARD-IZ has a killer new two track EP up for your delectation that is a one-two punch of knock-OutRun rockin. The fast pace and climbing melodies are arranged in a fashion to maximise excitement with rubber burning and synths ablaze in a 80s four wheeled firestorm! Definitely a kick arse debut for WARD-IZ, proudly presented by Wave Runner Records who will be hosting his debut full length album sometime in 2014.
Jupiter 8 - Vigilante 2 It has been hard to keep up with all the Jupiter 8 releases as this rocker just keeps cranking out EPs on an almost weekly basis. I haven't felt the magic in much of his recent work but his Vigilante 2 EP is something rockin. The synthscape is sparking with electricity and the tracks are much more thought out and arranged with emphasis placed on the melodies rather than just the sounds. Stand out tracks like 'Fighting Back' and 'Ghetto Blaster' display Jupiter 8's stronger points, which I hope he delves into further in the future.
jAke - Cracks A new three track release from jAke caught my attention this week. The Cracks EP is a great little excursion into some fantastic 80s moods and sounds with the title track being totally rad to the max. This song has a very impressive vocal that has a quality akin the Robert Plant's Principle Of Moments work, which is totally killer. The pop sensibilities of jAke are most prominent in 'Cracks' but the 80s magic glows with different colours in the also kick arse '(Who Stole My) Pony (?)' that has its tongue firmly planted in cheek with high energy 80s vibes rockin hard.
Let's kick things off with a hot new track from KALAX, a summer anthem for the burgeoning season aptly titled 'A Summer's Dream'. This piece has a really great energy in the bassline that the romantic sax parts play off of beautifully. It's a great mix of sounds that make for total 80s magic.
The off kilter timing in the new track from Android Automatic provides for an engaging and consuming experience. The atmosphere in 2024 gives off a night-stalker feel, being unbalanced and ever so slightly out of control. The dark of the night is a brooding shadow, hiding the pain of the tortured soul.
Rockin darker vibes this week also is Waveshaper with his 'Breakdown (Instrumental)' track that seethes and pulses with enigmatic sounds that echo danger and powerful melodies. The choked-out synthscape struggles against overpowering odds and each dramatic passage takes you further into the haunting melancholy.
Alter Sun has a superb new track out this week in 'Purple Clouds' which is a poignantly written excursion into 80s melodies. There are some darker elements at play but the tone is much more introspective and a bright positivity rings through the wonderfully explored melodies.
The glisteningly sweet synth romance sounds of Robert Parker will be sure to get you feeling that 80s love. 'Seventeen' is yearning and crushed out with uplifting melodies and bright nuances, full of wide eyed adoration and teenage passion. Definitely this week's home room anthem in Shermer. Be sure to pick up a copy of this great track for FREE via the download link in the player.
The first victim of my forced move from 'classic' soundcloud to the 'new' soundcloud was unfortunately Arc Neon's 'Body Talk' that came out a couple of weeks back, I do apologise for not covering this totally killer track last week, I hope I can get accustomed to the 'new' soundcloud so this doesn't happen often. That said, this track rocks hard and 'Body Talk' is currently available for FREE download via the player.
Droid Bishop keeps on creating superb synthscapes of verdant 80s lushness and with 'Momentary Love' he's captured a magnificent range of sounds that are both funky and atmospheric with emotionally charged melodies driving the experience. This track is available on the Stratford CT. Compilation available here.
Flexing his synth muscles and powering into oblivion is Grooveworthy with his powerhouse new slice of action packed drama titled 'God-Powered Android'. The build on this is totally kick arse as each chapter layers in new combustible elements that are then exploded with aural vibrations and dimensional energies in the final act. A great return to 80s sounds for Grooveworthy and this piece is also currently available for FREE download.
The late 2000s crossover with nu-disco and 80s sounds produced some fantastic moments in musical experiences and one of my favourite acts of that time are back with a hot new EP. 7he Myriads mix some modern ideas within arrangements that are both contemporary and retro oriented but always with a classy vintage vibe and in 'Out Of The Maze' they achieve this splendidly well. Here's to the triumphant return of 7he Myriads and their Labyrinth Of The Minotaur EP.
Speaking of mixing modern and vintage ideas, here comes Myrone with his kick arse guitars of distinction rockin down the highway in 'Virtual Island Paradise'. I've stated numerous times that Myrone is one of my favourite new talents of 2014 thus far and this track just reinforces that. The arrangements are incredibly rich and even with that oddly chosen rap passage, the 80s energies in this track just soar into wondrous new dimensions of the raddest kind. Rock it for FREE download while you can!
Whilst on the subject of exciting new talent someone whom I just discovered who totally rocked my world is Sebastian Gampl. This producer's innate understanding of 80s melodies and progressions is totally on point and his striving for authenticity is something very special indeed. His latest track 'Under Control' is a totally kick arse example of this but also check out his amazing 'Have You Heard' track, which is also available for purchase on Bandcamp here.
Heading out into bright lights and disco nights is the hot new rocker from Garth Knight 'Knight Of The Disco'. The powerful bassline and high energy drums create a thumping disco vibe that the spacey synth melodies just cruise along beautifully. Rock the disco vibes all night long by adding this to your Garth Knight collection via the purchase link in the player.
Pure Secks has been producing some really interesting sounds over the last few months. Whilst I've really enjoyed the lion's share of them a lot weren't particularly 80s enough to cover on Synthetix.FM. With his latest work that is definitely not the case as 'Business Or Pleasure' really nails the 80s mood and creates a sparse, dreamy synth atmosphere. This piece is currently available for FREE download also.
I must say, since LA Dreams has been working on other projects this past couple of months that I've really missed his regular album releases. But alas, all is not lost! He's still rockin hard and has released a great new track this week titled 'Open Air'. And the open air feels as good and fresh as LA Dreams' magical 80s synth music.
When it comes to rockin collaborative work there are few as prolific as STARFORCE and the latest piece in this ongoing series is a super hot new track with Action Jackson. My favourite part about 'Time Shock' is that it accurately captures the strong suits of both producers and mixes their styles into the perfect blend of Action Jackson's other worldly melodies and STARFORCES epic progressions. Totally kick arse, and available for FREE download via the player.
Our feature video for this week's Weekend Update is from none other than RF Extreme and a video he has created to accompany his beautiful new work 'Past Deflection'. The racing video is the perfect accompaniment the RF Extreme trademark melodies that are both graceful and highly charged. It is an entrancing mix of audio visual entertainment the justly captures the RF Extreme magic.
That does us for another big Weekend Update on Synthetix.FM, I hope your weekend rocks that little bit harder with these kick arse 80s tunes providing the soundtrack.
I'll be back during the week with Kasia for more rockin tunes from the 80s inspired synth scene.
'Til then, stay 80s and keep on rockin.
Music shouldn't be convenient. It shouldn't be something we become flippant about and just assume will always be there for us. We as fans need to make investments in those making the music, this entirely the reason why Synthetix.FM came about, to get that connection between the music makers and their potential audience. Being able to have a connection with a an album via a physical representation of that work is a tactile and emotional experience that is hugely special and is something that makes the music a much more permanent part of what the music means to us.
The two business models that I see working very well currently are the pre-order and then the re-issue. The upcoming Perturbator release through Telefuture Records is a superb opportunity to really hype up this auspicious release. Perturbator has a larger following than many in the scene and the excitement associated with owning a prestige format physical release with all the extras is very enticing. You can preorder a copy here, which I highly encourage.
The other method, which I see as a very attractive model for minimal initial outlay is what Highway Superstar has just done. If you head on over to his Bandcamp page here you'll find a whole bunch of rockin merchandise and physical copies of his magnificent Take My Time album from last year. The genius of this kind of model is releasing the physical version six months after the digital release is a far less risky decision based on how the record has sold as well as bringing those special albums back into the audience's psyche.
When was the last time you listened to Take My Time? A month? Two months? More? But the fond memories for this kick arse record are now part of your musical memories and the chance to now own it in a physical format and revisit those golden moments is something I find massively attractive. I'm quite happy as a fan to buy an album digitally, fall in love with it, and then fall in love with it all over again with a version I can enjoy a whole other level. The 80s inspired synth scene's music has the wonderful quality of being timeless, meaning a reissue of an album from even five years ago would be something I'd certainly be willing to pay for. Who wouldn't want to own Mitch Murder's Current Events on vinyl? Or Tommy's Outer Space Adventurer in a premium format? This model serves as the perfect opportunity to bring that magic back where it belongs.
I'd like to personally congratulate all the rockin labels out there who are now releasing physical versions of the talent they have on board. To Werkstatt Recordings, Girlfriend Records, Playmaker, Future 80s Records and all the other labels and independent producers out there making my musical fantasies come true; I salute you, and hope that physical releases are a mainstay of the 80s inspired synth scene. Be sure to check out the links to these labels and more in the links section on the right hand side of this page and have a browse around, you never know what you'll find and what you might have missed. Also, get rockin on the Facebook group Synthwave Cassette Club here for more hot info and news.
And remember: if you don't buy them; they WILL go away.
Time to get rockin with some music that'll be sure to get you feeling the G's as we pull out of a nose dive into a spectacular barrel roll with this week's AIRBORNE feature releases!
WARD-IZ - The Chase EP Australia's WARD-IZ has a killer new two track EP up for your delectation that is a one-two punch of knock-OutRun rockin. The fast pace and climbing melodies are arranged in a fashion to maximise excitement with rubber burning and synths ablaze in a 80s four wheeled firestorm! Definitely a kick arse debut for WARD-IZ, proudly presented by Wave Runner Records who will be hosting his debut full length album sometime in 2014.Jupiter 8 - Vigilante 2 It has been hard to keep up with all the Jupiter 8 releases as this rocker just keeps cranking out EPs on an almost weekly basis. I haven't felt the magic in much of his recent work but his Vigilante 2 EP is something rockin. The synthscape is sparking with electricity and the tracks are much more thought out and arranged with emphasis placed on the melodies rather than just the sounds. Stand out tracks like 'Fighting Back' and 'Ghetto Blaster' display Jupiter 8's stronger points, which I hope he delves into further in the future.jAke - Cracks A new three track release from jAke caught my attention this week. The Cracks EP is a great little excursion into some fantastic 80s moods and sounds with the title track being totally rad to the max. This song has a very impressive vocal that has a quality akin the Robert Plant's Principle Of Moments work, which is totally killer. The pop sensibilities of jAke are most prominent in 'Cracks' but the 80s magic glows with different colours in the also kick arse '(Who Stole My) Pony (?)' that has its tongue firmly planted in cheek with high energy 80s vibes rockin hard.
---------------------------------------------------
Let's kick things off with a hot new track from KALAX, a summer anthem for the burgeoning season aptly titled 'A Summer's Dream'. This piece has a really great energy in the bassline that the romantic sax parts play off of beautifully. It's a great mix of sounds that make for total 80s magic.
The off kilter timing in the new track from Android Automatic provides for an engaging and consuming experience. The atmosphere in 2024 gives off a night-stalker feel, being unbalanced and ever so slightly out of control. The dark of the night is a brooding shadow, hiding the pain of the tortured soul.
Rockin darker vibes this week also is Waveshaper with his 'Breakdown (Instrumental)' track that seethes and pulses with enigmatic sounds that echo danger and powerful melodies. The choked-out synthscape struggles against overpowering odds and each dramatic passage takes you further into the haunting melancholy.
Alter Sun has a superb new track out this week in 'Purple Clouds' which is a poignantly written excursion into 80s melodies. There are some darker elements at play but the tone is much more introspective and a bright positivity rings through the wonderfully explored melodies.
The glisteningly sweet synth romance sounds of Robert Parker will be sure to get you feeling that 80s love. 'Seventeen' is yearning and crushed out with uplifting melodies and bright nuances, full of wide eyed adoration and teenage passion. Definitely this week's home room anthem in Shermer. Be sure to pick up a copy of this great track for FREE via the download link in the player.
The first victim of my forced move from 'classic' soundcloud to the 'new' soundcloud was unfortunately Arc Neon's 'Body Talk' that came out a couple of weeks back, I do apologise for not covering this totally killer track last week, I hope I can get accustomed to the 'new' soundcloud so this doesn't happen often. That said, this track rocks hard and 'Body Talk' is currently available for FREE download via the player.
Droid Bishop keeps on creating superb synthscapes of verdant 80s lushness and with 'Momentary Love' he's captured a magnificent range of sounds that are both funky and atmospheric with emotionally charged melodies driving the experience. This track is available on the Stratford CT. Compilation available here.
Flexing his synth muscles and powering into oblivion is Grooveworthy with his powerhouse new slice of action packed drama titled 'God-Powered Android'. The build on this is totally kick arse as each chapter layers in new combustible elements that are then exploded with aural vibrations and dimensional energies in the final act. A great return to 80s sounds for Grooveworthy and this piece is also currently available for FREE download.
The late 2000s crossover with nu-disco and 80s sounds produced some fantastic moments in musical experiences and one of my favourite acts of that time are back with a hot new EP. 7he Myriads mix some modern ideas within arrangements that are both contemporary and retro oriented but always with a classy vintage vibe and in 'Out Of The Maze' they achieve this splendidly well. Here's to the triumphant return of 7he Myriads and their Labyrinth Of The Minotaur EP.
Speaking of mixing modern and vintage ideas, here comes Myrone with his kick arse guitars of distinction rockin down the highway in 'Virtual Island Paradise'. I've stated numerous times that Myrone is one of my favourite new talents of 2014 thus far and this track just reinforces that. The arrangements are incredibly rich and even with that oddly chosen rap passage, the 80s energies in this track just soar into wondrous new dimensions of the raddest kind. Rock it for FREE download while you can!
Whilst on the subject of exciting new talent someone whom I just discovered who totally rocked my world is Sebastian Gampl. This producer's innate understanding of 80s melodies and progressions is totally on point and his striving for authenticity is something very special indeed. His latest track 'Under Control' is a totally kick arse example of this but also check out his amazing 'Have You Heard' track, which is also available for purchase on Bandcamp here.
Heading out into bright lights and disco nights is the hot new rocker from Garth Knight 'Knight Of The Disco'. The powerful bassline and high energy drums create a thumping disco vibe that the spacey synth melodies just cruise along beautifully. Rock the disco vibes all night long by adding this to your Garth Knight collection via the purchase link in the player.
Pure Secks has been producing some really interesting sounds over the last few months. Whilst I've really enjoyed the lion's share of them a lot weren't particularly 80s enough to cover on Synthetix.FM. With his latest work that is definitely not the case as 'Business Or Pleasure' really nails the 80s mood and creates a sparse, dreamy synth atmosphere. This piece is currently available for FREE download also.
I must say, since LA Dreams has been working on other projects this past couple of months that I've really missed his regular album releases. But alas, all is not lost! He's still rockin hard and has released a great new track this week titled 'Open Air'. And the open air feels as good and fresh as LA Dreams' magical 80s synth music.
When it comes to rockin collaborative work there are few as prolific as STARFORCE and the latest piece in this ongoing series is a super hot new track with Action Jackson. My favourite part about 'Time Shock' is that it accurately captures the strong suits of both producers and mixes their styles into the perfect blend of Action Jackson's other worldly melodies and STARFORCES epic progressions. Totally kick arse, and available for FREE download via the player.
Our feature video for this week's Weekend Update is from none other than RF Extreme and a video he has created to accompany his beautiful new work 'Past Deflection'. The racing video is the perfect accompaniment the RF Extreme trademark melodies that are both graceful and highly charged. It is an entrancing mix of audio visual entertainment the justly captures the RF Extreme magic.
That does us for another big Weekend Update on Synthetix.FM, I hope your weekend rocks that little bit harder with these kick arse 80s tunes providing the soundtrack.
I'll be back during the week with Kasia for more rockin tunes from the 80s inspired synth scene.
'Til then, stay 80s and keep on rockin.
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