Retro Pop Revival – Color Theory, Magenta Dusk, disc 88, pleaselevitate

Color Theory stands out as an innovator in the retro pop space.  The sentiment hits home on songs like his new single Disappear.  The imaginative arrangement features an array of syncopated synths.  Like a complex organism they create a unique soundscape full of character and nostalgic flash. 

The creative direction recalls the iconic vision of trailblazers like Kate Bush and Peter Gabriel.  The artist’s own haunting vocal performances only embellishes the references.  A first wave synthwave breakthrough, Color Theory continues to push the envelope within the realms of retro pop revivals. 

Hear Disappear now on our Best New Synthwave Playlist.  

Magenta Dusk – Youth

Magenta Dusk breaks through with their infectious new single Youth.  A stand out from their impressive Debut EP; Youth reflects a vibe akin to synth waves first breakout stars known to the movie Drive.  It’s heard in the measured female vocal lead.  The sensual calming of her performance adds elegant contrast to the aggressive vibrant punch of the music.

Dark melodic tendencies enhance the moody nature, with some added compositional surprise to help it stand out.  We think it’s brilliant, timeless pop.  That exact essence that draws us back to the 80s time and time again. 

Hear Youth now on our Best New Synthwave Playlist.  

disc 88

There’s something rare to Until the night turns dark, the new single from disc 88.  The synthwave essence is undeniable, but this project is less about incorporation modern punch and more about embracing the nostalgic haze known to classic 80s underground music.

With an unconventional arrangement full of sonic cinematic swings, disc 88 reminds us of retro wave off shoots like Retroglyphs or Teeel.  Hear for yourself. 

Until the night turns dark is featured on our best new synthwave Playlist.

There’s a lot to love about I lie, the new single from pleaselevitate. Stylistically it reflects how the indie aesthetic tends to blend multiple genres into one cohesive new version of pop. 

Shoegaze and synth pop blend intriguingly while retro pop modes in post punk offer an added catchy brilliance.  With dissonant melodic surprise and an intoxicating vocal everything is absolutely in its right place on this masterful single.  We think it appeals to a wide range of fans, from Future Islands to Tame Impala.  Hear for yourself. 

I lie is featured on our Best New Synthwave New Wave Playlist. 

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