Synthwave

What is Synthwave?

Synthwave is a genre of electronic music that emerged in the mid-2000s and has since gained a significant following. Synthwave is characterized by its retro-futuristic sound, which draws inspiration from 1980s pop culture, including video games, movies, and television shows.

The genre is heavily influenced by the synthesizer-heavy sound of 1980s music, particularly by artists such as Vangelis, Tangerine Dream, and Jean-Michel Jarre. The use of vintage synthesizers and drum machines is a key element of the genre, along with the incorporation of reverb and delay effects to create a nostalgic, dreamy sound.

Synthwave gained mainstream attention in the 2010s, with the release of the movie "Drive" and the television series "Stranger Things," both of which prominently featured synthwave music. Since then, the genre has continued to grow in popularity, with artists such as Com Truise, Mitch Murder, and The Midnight gaining a dedicated fan base.

Synthwave has also influenced other art forms, including graphic design and visual art, with its distinctive aesthetic of neon colors, futuristic landscapes, and retro design elements. The genre has become synonymous with the nostalgic longing for a simpler, more optimistic time, making it an appealing escape for those looking for a break from the complexities of modern life.

Outrun

What is Outrun?

The name "outrun" is derived from the arcade game of the same name, which was popular in the 1980s. In the game, the player races a sports car through a neon-lit cityscape, evoking the same sense of adventure and adrenaline that characterizes the music.

But while outrun music shares many of the same influences as other forms of synthwave, it has its own unique sound and style. Its focus on instrumental music, in particular, makes it the perfect soundtrack for driving or other high-energy activities. Whether you're cruising down a highway at night or working out at the gym, outrun music will keep you pumped and energized.

Chillsynth

What is Chillsynth?

Chillsynth is a subgenre of synthwave that features a more laid-back and relaxed sound. It draws heavily from the styles of artists like HOME, ALISON, Hotel Pools, and Emil Rottmayer, who are known for their use of chill and lofi beats, dreamy synths, and ambient soundscapes. Chillsynth music often evokes a sense of nostalgia, and its atmospheric soundscapes create a dreamlike quality that can transport listeners to another time and place.

Musically, chillsynth is characterized by its use of slow, melodic beats, mellow synths, and soft percussion. The genre takes inspiration from a variety of sources, including ambient music, jazz, and classic 80s pop. Chillsynth artists often create a rich and immersive soundscape by layering different sounds and textures, resulting in a smooth and relaxing sound that is perfect for chilling out or studying

Visually, chillsynth often features artwork and videos that are inspired by a sense of nostalgia, featuring images of sunsets, palm trees, geometric gradients and retro technology.

Overall, chillsynth is a subgenre of synthwave that offers a more laid-back and relaxing take on the classic sounds and styles of the 80s. Its chill and lofi beats, dreamy synths, and ambient soundscapes make it a perfect soundtrack for unwinding after a long day or creating a soothing atmosphere in your home or office. If you're a fan of ambient music, chill beats, or just looking for a relaxing soundtrack, chillsynth is definitely worth checking out.

Datawave

What is Datawave?

Datawave is a subgenre of synthwave that draws heavily from the music of Com Truise. It is characterized by its use of glitchy sounds and textures, which give the music a more futuristic and electronic feel. Like other forms of synthwave, datawave is heavily influenced by the music and culture of the 1980s, but it adds its own unique twists and innovations to the genre.

Musically, datawave is distinguished by its use of glitchy, distorted sounds, often created by manipulating vintage synthesizers and drum machines in new and innovative ways. The resulting sound is a blend of classic 80s synthpop and more experimental, avant-garde electronic music. Some other artists who have contributed to the development of datawave include Com Truise, Synchropoly, AIRGLOW, demin and Clyde Shelton

Visually, datawave often features artwork and videos that are inspired by the technology of the future as imaged by the past, such as vector grid cyberspace, digital landscapes, and advanced computer systems.

Overall, datawave is a subgenre of synthwave that offers a unique take on the classic sounds and styles of the 1980s. Its use of glitchy, experimental sounds and futuristic visuals make it a compelling and exciting form of electronic music that continues to push the boundaries of what is possible in the genre. If you're a fan of Com Truise or other experimental electronic music, datawave is definitely worth exploring.

Spacesynth

What is Spacesynth?

Spacesynth is a subgenre of electronic music that emerged in the mid-1980s, characterized by its distinctive blend of space-inspired melodies and sci-fi sound effects. It was heavily influenced by the electronic and Italo disco music of the time, but with an added futuristic and space-age twist.

Laserdance, one of the pioneering spacesynth acts, was formed in 1984 in the Netherlands. Their music quickly gained popularity, and they went on to release numerous albums throughout the 1980s and 1990s, including "Future Generation" and "Ambient Dreams". Laserdance is still considered one of the most important and influential acts in the spacesynth genre.

Rygar is another popular spacesynth artist that emerged in the 1980s. This project was created by the Italian musician and producer, Davide Romani, and released several successful albums such as "Star Tracks" and "Modulation". Rygar's music is characterized by its energetic and uplifting soundscapes, often featuring soaring synth melodies and driving beats.

Other notable spacesynth acts include Koto, Proxyon, and Hypnosis, all of which helped to define the sound of the genre in the 1980s and early 1990s. Today, spacesynth continues to evolve and gain new fans, with modern artists such as Vincenzo Salvia and Dreamtime bringing fresh energy and creativity to the genre. See our Last.FM scrobble history for a full list

At Nightride FM, we're dedicated to celebrating the rich history of spacesynth while also showcasing the best new artists and tracks. With our 24/7 spacesynth radio station, you can experience the excitement and adventure of this unique genre any time of day or night.

Darksynth

What is Darksynth?

Darksynth is a subgenre of synthwave that incorporates heavier elements, drawing from metal, midtempo, and aggressive sounds. The result is a darker, more intense form of synthwave that is often associated with horror, sci-fi, and cyberpunk themes. Darksynth is characterized by its use of distorted synths, heavy guitar riffs, and driving beats, which create a sense of power and intensity that is perfect for those who want their music to pack a punch.

Musically, darksynth is distinguished by its use of heavy, midtempo beats, distorted synths, and chugging guitar riffs. The genre takes inspiration from a variety of sources, including heavy metal, industrial music, and classic 80s synthpop. Some popular darksynth artists include Carpenter Brut, Perturbator, Dan Terminus, and Gost, who all use these elements to create an intense, cinematic sound that is perfect for action scenes or horror soundtracks.

Visually, darksynth is often associated with dark and dystopian imagery, featuring artwork and videos that are inspired by sci-fi, cyberpunk and slasher horror themes.

Overall, darksynth is a subgenre of synthwave that offers a more aggressive and intense take on the classic sounds and styles of the 80s. Its use of distorted synths, heavy guitar riffs, and driving beats make it perfect for those who want a more powerful and intense form of electronic music. If you're a fan of heavy metal, industrial music, or just want a soundtrack that can get your adrenaline pumping, darksynth is definitely worth checking out.

EBSM

What is Electro Body Synth Music?

EBSM, or Electro Body Synth Music, is a genre that blends different musical styles to create a unique and aggressive sound. It incorporates elements of dark techno, industrial, EBM (Electronic Body Music), and synthwave to create a sound that is both hypnotic and intense.

One of the defining features of EBSM is its slow, deliberate tempo, which creates a sense of anticipation and tension. The beats are heavy and aggressive, with distorted sounds and driving basslines that create a dark and intense atmosphere. The music often feels like it's pushing forward with an almost unstoppable force, perfect for dark clubbing or any other setting where a visceral, powerful energy is desired.

The use of electronic instrumentation is also a hallmark of EBSM. Synthesizers, drum machines, and other electronic instruments are used to create complex soundscapes and layers of sound. These instruments are often processed and distorted to create unique textures and tonalities, further enhancing the genre's signature sound.

While EBSM rarely features vocals, when they are used, they are often heavily sampled and manipulated to create a sense of detachment from the lyrics. The vocals are frequently distorted and aggressive, adding to the overall mood and atmosphere of the music.

Overall, EBSM is a genre that is constantly pushing the boundaries of electronic music, with its unique blend of different musical styles and its focus on slow, deliberate aggression making it perfect for dark clubbing or any other setting where a powerful and intense energy is desired.

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