Rogue VHS and OVRGRWN hit retro synthwave gold with their new single Me & You. Recalling the genres first soundtrack inspired retrofuturistic legacy, the single feels plucked directly out of a sensationalized 80s soundtrack. The Miami Vice vibes find new sonic reverence, utilizing todays modern tools to get a punchier, bigger sound. It’s what make synthwave magical and it’s honored impeccably on this breakout release.
OVRGRWN gives synthwave some new influence courtesy of an intoxicating vocal performance, one that embraces some modern pop crossover inspiration in the vein of Dua Lipa and even Midnights (the album) era Taylor Swift. Ironically those artists were inspired by the synthwave movement, and now in turn that influence comes full circle.
Me & You is a period perfect smash which connects with the trademark NRW synthwave works known to The Midnight (the band) and FM84. Both OVRGRWN and Rogue VHS are already catching on among the scene, this release should only enhance their reputation further.
Get into Me & You now on our Best New Synthwave Playlist.
A dreamy cinematic vibe cites classic soundtrack composers like Vangelis elegantly at the onset of Keeping Control, the new single from Otlo. This is gorgeous nostalgia. It cites synth music in a way that connects more with the rare Moog heavy works known to the 70s than the well travelled 80s.
From 10cc to John Lennon, 70s synth heavy pop songs are often overlooked but equally impactful precursors to modern pop. Otlo adds an added sonic sensibility reflective of Tame Impala, M83, or more classically Air. We simply adore this work. We think fans of psych pop, indie pop, and synthwave will all connect with its sonic reverence.
Otlo is featured on our Best New Synthwave playlist.
If you need an early morning pick me up then we suggest you start your day with the motivational bliss of Subhuman, the new single from The Dream Eaters. The mantra of “I am not subhuman and I need to be loved” is both empowering and self assuring.
Dressed in this retro pop vibe and sang with a magnetic emotional urgency, exposure to Subhuman could be prone to fits of unplanned impromptu interpretive dance sessions. Don’t say we didn’t warn you. We hear the legacy of Abba with an updated indie sensibility akin to Arcade Fire or Future Islands.
Hear Subhuman now on our Best New Synthwave Playlist.
The Sweet Kill caught our attention with the illuminated post punk brilliance of Forbidden. Stylistically it effectively connects with the poetic new wave alternative inspired rock known to Interpol and Editors. You can trace this influence back to The Cure or even Joy Division. Like those aforementioned indie icons, The Sweet Kill bring new sonic fury into this stylistic canon.
Forbidden adds its own trademark chorus and epic nature. The performance delivers too. From the perfectly crafted tones to the rare quivering vibrato of the lead vocal, everything about Forbidden is in its right place. If you’re looking for fresh sounds within this vibe, Forbidden triumphs.
Hear Forbidden now on our Best New Synthwave Darkwave Playlist.
The Wild Is Calling 