We adore the rare dark design of Creation, the new single from Liminal Shade. Every contribution on this thoughtful release feels calculated to enhance the sonic experience. Their style is refreshingly different too.
One detail is the effective use of the singers heavenly vocal style within this vibe. Whereas that style so often falls ethereal, Liminal Shade amplify its dark searing affect. She reigns like a succulent siren with devilish intention. Creation is cinematic; free from conventional format and progressing like its own entity into its final thematic moments. What are those noises at the end? That’s part of the fun this kind of imaginative work offers. Stylistically it should connect with fans of darkwave as well as experimental acts like Sevdaliza and Riki.
Hear Creation now on our Best New Synthwave Darkwave Playlist.
Johnny Hunter caught our attention with his new single Frustration. We love this kind of aggressive marriage of post punk, new wave, and electro pop. Frustration blends all of our favorite things from the 80s into one package.
Subtle quips cite specific influences in a way that’s fun and never derivative. It’s heard most notably in how the singer adapts his voice throughout. At times he conjures the harsh punk poetic aura of Ian Curtis, while at other times we hear evidence of Robert Smith or even Duran Duran. Overall it’s an energizing sensibility with amplified emotional complex. We can dig it.
Hear Frustration now on our Best New Synthwave Darkwave Playlist.
Tiergarten embraces the contrast on their new single Apocalypse Lux. The synths are expressive, featuring explosive piercing sharp tonalities. The vocals add a serene, intoxicating element. The blend of these two aesthetics is exhilarating, and evolves anthemic as the singer adapts with a convincing howl.
Stylistically it’s a gorgeous blend of synthwave and electro pop. Tiergarten bridges the gap between St Vincent and Gunship. The future is now.
Hear Apocalypse Lux now on our Best New Synthwave Playlist.
We were drawn to the unique abstract aura of I Just Cry This Much, the new single from In Atlas. The convincing vocal performances is full of conjured hurt and emotion, as the singer draws from her unconscious to uncover the trauma that inspired this creative outlet.
The affect is haunting and the nostalgia adds to the cinematic feel. Stylistically we hear evidence of Kate Bush and Eurythmics with some of the added chic pop influence familiar to Little Dragon. I Just Cry This Much feels tailor made for a drama featuring a sexy moody punk vixen female lead. We can dig it.
In Atlas is featured on our Best New Synthwave Playlist.
The Wild Is Calling 