5 Year Honourable Mentions - Part One
by Karl Magi
This article features some of my honourable mentions from the music from the past 5 years of reviews. These albums and EPs have brought me a great deal of listening pleasure. The music runs the gamut through all sorts of different synthesized genres and explores a wide variety of sounds and moods. This is music which I find myself revisiting, enjoying the tunes and taking a journey as I listen to the tremendously talented musicians that make up this scene, expressing themselves so freely and so beautifully.
2019
OSC - Ideality
I enjoy the way in which OSC’s Ideality dives deep into synth-funk, delivering an upbeat, groove-filled album that celebrates the essence of funk. Departing from darker cyberpunk synth sounds, this album lifts my spirits with its positive energy and vibrant melodies, a refreshing shift in today’s cultural climate.
OSC’s mastery of jazz improvisation shines through the dynamic synth solos, paying homage to funk’s jazz roots and adding depth to the music. Vocals are used sparingly but effectively Including the late ‘80s/early ‘90s rap on the opening track and the lively, optimistic tone of Hopscotch.
The production quality is impeccable with a well-balanced mix and standout percussion. OSC’s playful incorporation of chiptune elements, particularly on It Starts With a Chip, adds a unique touch that fans of the style will appreciate. I find that Ideality honours funk’s legacy while offering fresh sonic exploration.
Honeybeard - Whispers of Light
The way in which Whispers of Light creates a darkly ethereal mood by blending melancholic lyrics with atmospheric synths is something I find deeply enjoyable. The music balances light, floating synth textures with deeper bass and driving percussion, creating a layered audio experience.
While catchy, pop-oriented melodies are absent, the EP doesn’t aim for pure pop appeal. Instead, it delivers carefully crafted melodies that support its emotional depth. I find the lyrics poignant as they move through loss, yearning and contemplation.
These themes are reflected in the music’s contrast between aching words and the energetic push of layered arpeggios and rhythmic elements. The production is polished, providing a solid foundation for the emotional storytelling. Whispers of Light melds light and darkness, warmth and sadness, capturing a sense of tarnished hope.
Gibarian - Lambent
Gibarian’s Lambent EP lives up to its name for me, offering a softly radiant and ethereal listening experience. Each track exudes a delicate glow, limned in golden, misty light and tranquil cloudscapes. The music creates a sense of serenity that gently lifts stress and anxiety, wrapping me in its soothing radiance.
Gibarian’s artistry shows itself to me in the EP’s subtlety and balance. No element overpowers another and the tracks maintain a graceful equilibrium between ambient serenity and engaging musicality. This ensures the EP avoids becoming monotonous, while preserving its calming essence.
I find the production quality outstanding, enhancing the EP’s poise. Every element feels bright, elegant and uplifting, achieving a consistent and beautiful sound throughout. Lambent offers a gentle yet immersive escape into its luminous sonic world.
Net Terminal Gene - Teenage Daydream
I am greatly enamoured of the way in which Net Terminal Gene’s Teenage Daydream captures the wonder, hope and idealism of adolescence through vibrant, nostalgic soundscapes. With energetic beats, lambent synths and floating soundscapes underpinned by subtle drums and bass, the album generates feelings of discovery and potential, while creating a sense of warmth and relaxation.
I enjoy the way in which each track paints vivid mental imagery, functioning like film clips that tell a cohesive story. I am drawn to tracks like Sunset Point with its uplifting melody and warm sonic cocoon, evoking the image of a sun sinking into a pink sky. The variety of synth tones—ranging from crystalline and sweeping to deep and crunchy—adds texture and emotional depth, with each sound carefully deployed to enhance the narrative.
The album strikes a balance between moods, from high-energy tracks like Kids on Bikes to ethereal moments in Stardrift and darker tones in Transmission. I enjoy the way in which Teenage Daydream is a nostalgic and engaging journey through youthful emotions.
The Less Dead - Static
The Less Dead’s Static delivers a chilling, cinematic synthwave experience, crafted as the imaginary score to a horror movie. Collaborating with Millennium Falck and Ampholyte, the Tokyo-based artist channels the synthwave community's love for cinematic albums with dynamic, story-driven tracks that evoke vivid mental imagery. It's an album that sticks in my mind because of the music's atmospheric nature.
Staying true to its concept, Static features tracks of varying lengths that mimic the pacing of a film score, creating a cohesive narrative arc. The way in which the album balances mood and musicality, combining moments of tension and fear with engaging melodies makes for a listening experience which I find truly immersive.
Tracks like The Room use dark drones, heavy bass and a distorted piano to instill discomfort and dread, while 15 Miles East opens the album with an energetic, guitar-driven melody that hooks listeners. With its combination of atmospheric depth and melodic structure, Static is an album I find both haunting and replayable, making it a superb exploration of horror-inspired synthwave.
Alpha Chrome Yayo - Twirl
One of my favorite listening experiences out of anything I've ever reviewed, Alpha Chrome Yayo’s Twirl pushes the boundaries of retro-inspired synth music, delving into ‘90s synth sounds while sounding reminiscent of legends like Brian Eno, Jean-Michel Jarre, and Ryuichi Sakamoto.
Layered and immersive, the album evokes the lush production style of Sega CD video game soundtracks, combining warm, drifting and scintillating soundscapes with a touch of tranquility—even when darker tones emerge. I'm impressed by ACY’s mastery of sound design with synths, pads, guitar, bass and percussion creating an auditory experience akin to gliding over oceanic depths. His guitar work adds melodic and harmonic complexity, exemplified by the tropical vibes of Port Mado.
The album also features jazz-inspired synth solos, echoing the influence of Japanese Sega CD composers and jazz-fusion traditions. The way in which it blends innovation and nostalgia allows Twirl to deliver a serene and captivating listening journey that keeps me listening.
2020
Moon Talk - Moon Talk
Moon Talk’s self-titled EP strikes me as a melodic gem that emphasizes beauty and emotional depth over heavier, more aggressive tones. The EP showcases Moon Talk's first rate melodic writing with tracks like As We Were, Angst and Makeup Kit and Clouded creating gentle, wistful and heart-tugging moments.
The melodies are complemented by smooth basslines and subtle drums, making for a laid-back yet engaging listening experience that blends tranquility with a sense of groove. Moon Talk’s restraint and balance is another reason I come back to his music, as he avoids excess while foregrounding the music’s flow and soothing qualities.
The EP has a tranquil, moody sound that envelops me without veering into pure ambient territory. Moon Talk’s melodic focus and delicate production create a warm, immersive experience for fans of synthesized music.
Diamond Ace - Future Love
I've long been pulled in by Future Love’s emotive exploration of love, darkness and light as Diamond Ace weaves contrasting forces into a dynamic synth journey. The album balances calm stillness with bursts of tense energy, creating an immersive atmosphere. Tracks drift peacefully with smooth beats and deep bass before erupting With surging electric guitar and propulsive rhythms, like sudden thunderstorms breaking serenity. I appreciate Diamond Ace’s skillful handling of the interplay between tranquility and vigour.
The electric guitar plays a pivotal role, whether through Retroglyphs’ contributions on Future Signs or Diamond Ace’s own soaring solos. These energetic guitar elements enhance the music’s scope without overpowering the synths, bass and drums maintaining harmony. SUNESIS’ smoky, powerful vocals on the title track Future Love add emotional depth to the experience.
I also appreciate Diamond Ace’s thoughtful use of dynamics, as it adds further intrigue with crescendos and quiet moments keeping listeners engaged. I feel that Future Love is a balanced and impactful musical experience.
M.K. Khan - Weekends on Earth
M.K. Khan’s Weekends on Earth carries me on a thrilling journey through ‘80s-inspired synthscapes, radiating warmth, energy and good vibes. For me, the album offers an uplifting escape from life’s stresses, blending breezy melodies with crystal-clear production. M.K. Khan skillfully balances retro sounds with contemporary sharpness, allowing each track’s melodies, basslines and drumbeats to shine.
The melodic strength of Weekends on Earth is another reason why I return to this album. M.K. Khan writes memorable melodies that gently soothe or energize, lingering in my mind with joyful persistence. The way in which he writes melodies delivers repeated moments of musical delight to me as I continue to listen.
The synth choices that M.K. Khan makes enrich the album even further. He combines glowing, chiming sounds with edgier tones and uniquely textured synths, creating an engaging sonic palette. The seamless integration of nostalgic elements with modern production techniques adds depth and clarity, resulting in a polished and emotionally resonant listening experience which I find thoroughly ear pleasing.
From Apes to Angels - Let the Light In
I am strongly drawn to the way in which From Apes to Angels’ Let the Light In takes me on a poignant exploration of love in its many forms—lost, found, and fractured. The album combines delicate, shimmering synths with emotive vocal performances to delve into the complexities of human relationships. Its lyrics and music touch me deeply, navigating the challenging terrain of love with honesty and grace.
The album’s production creates a sense of open space, allowing the ethereal synths and crystalline sounds to flow and breathe in a way that charms me. These shimmering elements are occasionally tinged with melancholy, balancing brightness with shadow. This interplay reflects the emotional intricacies of love, avoiding clichés in favor of genuine depth and complexity.
Millie Gaum’s voice is a strong component of the album, adding both warmth and sharp emotional clarity. Her delicacy and strength are complemented by collaborations with Chronica and Femmepop, whose voices add lushness to the soundscape. I find Let the Light In to be a glittering yet emotionally grounded album, rich in depth and artistry.
YORU - Revisit
YORU’s Revisit captures the essence of classic synthwave in the best possible way for me with its polished production, driving beats and catchy synth riffs. It also adds fresh energy through expressive vocals and dynamic instrumentation. Staying true to the genre’s roots, the album balances nostalgia with modern vibrancy that creates a lively and engaging listening experience for me.
One of Revisit’s highlights for me are its vocal performances. Featuring a range of talented guest vocalists, the album delivers varied moods and textures. Roxi Drive brings retro charm to Running Away, GeoVoc adds emotional depth to Stars, Swayze’s exuberance shines on Pool Party and NeverMann delves into romance on Forever.
I also always return to the guitar work, as it adds expressive power and versatility. From Dimi Kaye’s shredding on Pool Party to Del-Anov’s glistening solo on Forever the guitar complements the shimmering synths beautifully. YORU’s use of bright, glowing synth sounds creates sweeping soundscapes that interlock seamlessly with the vocals and guitars, making Revisit an album to which I can listen over and over again.
Strike Eagle - Inverted
Inverted’s blend of ’80s pop and rock influences, featuring Graham Waller’s evocative lyrics, ear-catching synth melodies and Ben Higgins’ skillful guitar work is one that I find deeply pleasing. Enhanced by Lisa Avon’s emotive guest vocals, the EP is elevated by sharp production and a thoughtful approach to songwriting.
Graham Waller’s talent as both a vocalist and lyricist allows him to craft strong imagery with his words and deliver them with a voice reminiscent of male New Wave singers. I am enamoured of the way in which his vocal range allows him to convey both a cold edge and warm pop energy, adding depth to each track. His knack for melody and sound design is equally impressive with synths tailored to complement the music.
I also want to mention the way in which Ben Higgins’ intricate guitar work adds expressive solos while Lisa Avon’s warm vocals on “Golden Hour” provide a beautiful counterpoint. Unique percussion choices further set Inverted apart, creating grooves that are atmospheric and refreshingly distinct.
2021
Zane Alexander - Death By Space
Zane Alexander’s Death By Space carries me away on a captivating voyage that explores the vastness and solitude of space. Through lush, reverberating soundscapes and ethereal melodies, the music immerses me in its journey through expansive, starry vistas. I also am drawn to the way in which production’s depth enhances this experience, delivering a three-dimensional quality that evokes floating through endless cosmic blackness.
Zane Alexander’s synth-driven compositions use glowing, drifting tones to paint images of stars and cosmic isolation in a way that lets my mind travel with them. Melodically the album strikes a balance between fragility, serenity and moments of triumph, creating emotional contrast and depth.
The way in which this album skillfully blends sound and texture results in an evocative listening experience, capturing both the beauty and melancholy of the cosmos. Death By Space is a sonic exploration that invites listeners to lose themselves in its rich, celestial atmosphere.
Maestro Eternal - Curio
Maestro Eternal’s Curio is a dreamy and immersive album that transports me on a “capricious dream ride of fantastic realms.” Through billowing ambient synths, glowing melodies and deep undertones, I enjoy the way in which it creates a soundscape perfect for drifting and dreaming.
The intricate layers unfold in a cinematic journey, blending shimmering tones, flickering sounds, and melancholic yet hopeful melodies that captivate my imagination. I appreciate Curio’s dynamic balance of ambient textures, deep bass and smooth, steady drums.
The bass adds depth and resonance, while the percussion provides structure and movement, keeping the music engaging and alive. I like the way that Maestro Eternal skillfully matches the mood of each track to its narrative, forging a strong emotional connection that enhances the listening experience. Curio blends sound and storytelling, stirring both my imagination and my soul.
Draven - EP II
I am deeply pleased by the way in which Draven’s EP II takes me on a chilling and immersive exploration of fear and darkness, generating an atmosphere heavy with dread and despair. Through a fusion of harshness and delicacy, the music elicits an unrelenting sensation of creeping evil, erasing any hint of peace or light.
Deep, rumbling bass forms a simmering foundation of tension, while slashing, sawtoothed synths and thunderous drums amplify the sensation of looming danger. Tightly wound synths scream and howl, intensifying the feeling of an unseen horror lurking nearby. I am drawn to the way at which delicate piano melodies add a touch of forlorn beauty and a Theremin introduces a haunting, otherworldly quality.
The lighter, tragic elements provide emotional depth, balancing the overwhelming darkness and enriching the sonic landscape. I love EP II’s gripping, atmospheric journey through shadow and sorrow, capturing the terrifying beauty of the unknown.
The Motion Epic - Boardwalk Arcadia
The Motion Epic’s Boardwalk Arcadia delivers a poignant blend of melancholy and hope as it unfolds. I appreciate the way in which it captures the essence of teenage dreams and their transformation over time.
The album balances retro and modern sounds, evoking fading summer memories and Polaroid nostalgia. Pat Dimeo’s expressive vocals shift effortlessly between trembling tenderness and bright energy, while his heartfelt interpretations of the lyrics infuse the songs with deep emotional resonance.
I am also pulled in by the contribution of live musicians on drums, percussion, sax and keys adds an organic, immediate quality to the album, adding an element of authenticity and connection. This dynamic approach creates an engaging listening experience that connects with me on a personal level.
Pat Dimeo’s melodic writing Is another crucial component for my attraction to this album, it combines uplifting energy with wistful melancholy. This emotional layering elevates Boardwalk Arcadia, making it a beautifully crafted exploration of nostalgia, longing and time’s passage.
Diamond Field - Diamond Field
I am appreciative of the way in which Diamond Field’s self-titled album is a retro-inspired journey that captures ‘80s synthpop’s energy and essence while offering a fresh twist. With strong melodies, exceptional vocal and instrumental performances and thoughtfully written lyrics, the album avoids becoming a pastiche and instead feels dynamic and original.
I'm bowled over by the sheer talent involved in this album. Each vocalist delivers a compelling performance, contributing not only their voice but also lyrics and vocal arrangements. Instrumentally, the album features soaring guitar solos, dazzling synth work and impeccable execution.
I'm engaged by the way in which Diamond Field integrates these elements into a cohesive whole. The blend of retro aesthetics with modern production creates a sound that is both nostalgic and innovative. I also find the album’s meticulous production quite enjoyable with crystal-clear sound quality that ensures every musical element stands out while forming a polished, unified soundscape.
Dream Shore - Miami
Dream Shore’s Miami is a kinetic sonic journey that draws my attention through its diverse range of synth textures, expressive vocals and eloquent lyrics. The album features a complex interplay of synth tones, from shimmering clarity to gritty intensity, which paint immersive soundscapes that I find captivating. Guitarist Dalton Bell enriches the album with his contributions on Ocean Overdrive adding to its layered aural complexity.
I'm particularly appreciative of the percussion on Miami as it forms a dynamic foundation, contributing unique textures that shape and drive the music without overpowering the mix. They provide a steady framework that enhances the album's intricate sonic elements.
I find Dream Shore’s vocals, along with guest appearances by E.M. Watson and Clap & Thunder, bring a deep emotional resonance to the music. Dream Shore's voice transitions seamlessly between powerful, soaring delivery and delicate, nuanced expression, carrying the lyrics with heartfelt depth and intensity.
