Browsing Tag

analogue

ReveLever – Play with the Fire: A Synthpop Minefield of Melodic Hooks

Posted on 12 March 2020

I’m fairly convinced that old school 80s analogue synths will never lose their mesmeric appeal. Even more so after hearing the latest single “Play with the Fire” from Netherlands-based artist ReveLever.

The striking synthesised notes create the perfect platform for the female vocals to sit neatly above as they exude hypnotic levels of magnetism. As usual, the lyrics have been left light. Yet they still efficaciously draw you deeper into the mix which is an aural minefield of melodic hooks.

Play with the Fire may not be the most innovative or bold soundscape. Instead, it’s a captivating revival of the 80s Synthwave sound. ReveLever has found the perfect balance between dark and light in Play with Fire. There may be some moody tones found in the mix, yet, there’s also sensual warmth and effervescent charm.

You can check out ReveLever’s single which was released on February 14th for yourselves via Bandcamp.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

Centric – The Fifth Dimension: Pure Unadulterated Progressive Sound

Posted on 5 November 2017

The Virginia based band Centric are an absolute analogue dream. Their track The Fifth Dimension was released in October 2017 but they’re worthy of a throwback review of their genius approach to music. It truly is a crime that Centric still lingers on the underground music scene,

Centric’s music has all of the synthesised delight of Depeche Mode, Gary Numan and Shiny Toy Guns with a delectably soft Industrial EBM sound. Their futuristic sound provides a tranquil yet lucidly progressive aura. It’s expertly orchestrated with an innovative sound that’s pushed through each beat to provide you with a myriad of emotions as the track runs through its 5 minute duration. Centric’s other tracks such as Heartlead and Telluride provide much more of a synthesised grungy sound not too dissimilar from bands such as the Editors. Bands such as Centric prove that Grunge and soft rock have an Infinite Malleability, and their elemental influence can be revelled in in a plethora of other genres.

If this hit dropped on a dancefloor, I have no doubt in my mind that the crowd would be immersed in its euphoria. Their tracks retain an upbeat sound that’s highly resonant and provides a sea of soundwaves for you to sink into as your mind expands in time with the melody.

Check out their single which you can download for FREE on the BandCamp page using the link below!

https://centric.bandcamp.com/track/the-fifth-dimension