Most of the early Synthwave internet buzz acts pioneered by stream dominant label New Retro Wave never found their footing as touring bands. One that broke through and kept the momentum building is The Midnight. While classic synthwave acts adapt into new modes of genre blending, The Midnight throws fire on the flame of eighties nostalgia. Their embers rage in advance of a new album called Syndicate, out on October 3. In advance of the records release they’ve dropped some tasty singles. It’s reasonable that they would want to drop the sensual on brand classic Summer’s Ending Soon on the eve of September. Most recently they’ve dripped out Runaways (ft Bonnie Mckee). Both are guaranteed to retain their audience, but Runaways is dare we say an uptick to their recent flow. We hear hints of Madonna and that’s a reference we don’t offer lightly. The Midnight still got it.
Hear them new on our Best New Synthwave Playlist.
Obsoletha caught our attention with their single A Dream Of Aadvarks. This intoxicating retro pop single lands exotic courtesy of the songs unassuming subject matter. It’s sneaky playful, while dynamic melodic shifts within the progression offer intelligent contrast. Stylistically the sensual pop feel recalls the writing of Fleetwood Mac or Abba, but in a considerably shinier Synthwave package. We find it irresistable.
The single is just one flavor from a fruitful bounty. The dreamy companion single Youthful now is dreamy and intoxicating. It recalls classic 1st wave bangers from College and Electric Youth. We’re super into this project.
Obsoletha are featured on our Best New Synthwave Playlist.
A picture says a thousand words. It fits when you gaze at the cover art for Last Time, the new single from Ralphy. There’s a mix of cool jive and motion to the singers visual aura. The song accentuates that reference. This ones for the dance floor. It channels the legacy of eighties pop while emoting the era’s soundtrack brilliance. It’s a testament to the moody melodic palette and troubled narrative. Everything feels right on this impressive release.
Ralphy is featured on our Best New Synthwave Playlist.
We adore the dirt post punk energy permeating from Rain Song, the new single from Shadowing. It’s full of urban attitude and a disoriented punk temperament. The vocal specter within this narrativec isn’t totally sure what it is, but it knows what it isn’t. It’s not here to be conventionally beautiful or prescribe to some conformed expectation, but it is inspired. Visions of Bowie and classic gothic new wave rise from its angry banter. The music pumps in tandem to its magnetic prowess. We find it exhilarating.
Hear Rain Song now on our Best New Synthwave Playlist.
The Wild Is Calling 