What is the Synthwave Aesthetic? [2024]

Have you ever found yourself captivated by the nostalgic sounds of 1980s action, science-fiction, and horror film soundtracks? Do you find the neon-lit visuals and retro-futuristic vibes of that era irresistible? If so, then you’ve likely encountered the mesmerizing world of the synthwave aesthetic. In this article, we’ll dive deep into the synthwave aesthetic, exploring its origins, characteristics, and its enduring popularity. Get ready to embark on a journey through time and sound as we unravel the mysteries of this captivating genre.

Table of Contents

• Quick Answer
• Quick Tips and Facts
• Background: The Birth of Synthwave
• The Characteristics of Synthwave
• The Synthwave Visuals
• The Subgenres of Synthwave
• The Popularity and Legacy of Synthwave
• FAQ
• Conclusion
• Recommended Links
• Reference Links

Quick Answer

The synthwave aesthetic is a captivating fusion of 1980s-inspired electronic music, visual aesthetics, and nostalgia. It draws influences from the iconic soundtracks of action, science-fiction, and horror films from that era. Synthwave captures the essence of the 1980s, evoking a sense of nostalgia for a bygone era. It is often characterized by pulsating synthesizers, catchy melodies, and a retro-futuristic atmosphere. If you’re looking to immerse yourself in the neon-lit world of the 80s, the synthwave aesthetic is the perfect gateway.

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Quick Tips and Facts

• Synthwave is a microgenre of electronic music that emerged in the late 2000s.
• It draws inspiration from 1980s film soundtracks, video games, and composers like John Carpenter and Vangelis.
• The term “synthwave” is often used interchangeably with “outrun,” which represents the retro 1980s aesthetics associated with the genre.
• Synthwave is characterized by pulsating synthesizers, catchy melodies, and a nostalgic atmosphere.
• The genre has various subgenres, including dreamwave, darksynth, and scifiwave.
• Synthwave gained mainstream recognition through its inclusion in popular films and TV shows like “Drive” and “Stranger Things.”

Background: The Birth of Synthwave

To truly understand the synthwave aesthetic, we must delve into its origins. Synthwave emerged in the late 2000s as a nostalgic homage to the music and visuals of the 1980s. Inspired by the iconic soundtracks of action, science-fiction, and horror films from that era, artists began crafting their own compositions that captured the essence of the 80s. The genre gained traction on online platforms and quickly developed a dedicated following.

The synthwave movement was fueled by a desire to recreate the atmospheric and evocative sounds of the past. Artists drew inspiration from the electronic pioneers of the 80s, such as Kraftwerk, Tangerine Dream, and Jean-Michel Jarre. They embraced the use of analog synthesizers, drum machines, and other vintage equipment to achieve an authentic retro sound.

As the genre grew in popularity, artists began experimenting with different styles and subgenres, pushing the boundaries of what synthwave could be. Today, synthwave has become a global phenomenon, with artists from all corners of the world contributing to its vibrant and ever-evolving landscape.

The Characteristics of Synthwave

Synthwave is characterized by a distinct set of musical elements that define its unique sound. Let’s take a closer look at the key characteristics that make up the fabric of the synthwave aesthetic:

1. Pulsating Synthesizers

At the heart of synthwave lies the pulsating synthesizers that drive the music forward. These rich and evocative sounds are created using analog synthesizers, which give the music its warm and nostalgic feel. The hypnotic melodies and lush pads transport listeners to a world of neon-lit streets and futuristic landscapes.

2. Catchy Melodies

One of the defining features of synthwave is its emphasis on catchy melodies. Artists craft memorable hooks and melodies that stick with you long after the song has ended. These melodies often evoke a sense of nostalgia, transporting listeners back to the heyday of 80s pop music.

3. Retro Drum Machines

Synthwave wouldn’t be complete without the iconic drum machines that provide the rhythmic backbone of the music. Artists often use vintage drum machines like the Roland TR-808 and the LinnDrum to create the distinctive drum patterns that drive the music forward. The crisp and punchy beats add a layer of energy and groove to the synthwave sound.

4. Nostalgic Atmosphere

Above all, synthwave is about capturing the nostalgic atmosphere of the 1980s. The music transports listeners to a time when VHS tapes, arcade games, and neon lights reigned supreme. It evokes a sense of longing for a bygone era, a yearning for a time that many never experienced firsthand.

5. Retro-Futuristic Vibes

In addition to its nostalgic elements, synthwave also embraces a retro-futuristic aesthetic. The music conjures images of sleek sports cars, cyberpunk cityscapes, and dystopian futures. It’s a blend of the past and the future, a sonic representation of what the 80s imagined the world would become.

The Synthwave Visuals

The synthwave aesthetic isn’t limited to just the music—it extends to the visual realm as well. Album covers, music videos, and artwork associated with the genre often feature striking visuals that complement the music’s retro-futuristic vibe. Let’s explore some of the key visual elements that define the synthwave aesthetic:

1. Neon Colors

Neon colors are a hallmark of the synthwave aesthetic. The vibrant hues of magenta, cyan, and electric blue dominate the visual landscape, evoking the neon-lit streets of the 80s. These colors create a sense of energy and excitement, immersing the viewer in a world of retro-futuristic beauty.

2. VHS Artifacts

To further enhance the nostalgic feel, artists often incorporate VHS artifacts into their visuals. These artifacts mimic the tracking errors and distortion that were common in VHS tapes, adding an extra layer of authenticity to the aesthetic. The flickering lines and glitches evoke memories of a time when physical media reigned supreme.

3. Retro Typography

The typography used in synthwave visuals often takes inspiration from the bold and futuristic fonts of the 80s. Artists utilize sharp angles, bold outlines, and vibrant colors to create eye-catching typography that complements the music’s energetic and nostalgic feel.

4. Retro-Futuristic Landscapes

Many synthwave visuals depict retro-futuristic landscapes, featuring sprawling cityscapes, neon-lit streets, and futuristic architecture. These visuals transport viewers to a world that blends the past and the future, creating a sense of awe and wonder.

The visual component of the synthwave aesthetic is just as important as the music itself. It adds another layer of immersion, allowing listeners to fully immerse themselves in the retro-futuristic world that synthwave creates.

The Subgenres of Synthwave

As synthwave has grown in popularity, artists have explored different styles and subgenres within the genre. These subgenres offer unique takes on the synthwave aesthetic, pushing the boundaries of what the genre can be. Let’s explore some of the key subgenres of synthwave:

1. Dreamwave

Dreamwave is a subgenre of synthwave that emphasizes dreamy and ethereal atmospheres. It often incorporates elements of ambient music, creating a more introspective and introspective sound. Dreamwave takes listeners on a journey through hazy landscapes and evokes a sense of tranquility and introspection.

2. Darksynth

Darksynth, as the name suggests, takes a darker and more aggressive approach to the synthwave aesthetic. Influenced by horror cinema and dark electronic music, darksynth features heavier and grittier sounds. It explores darker electronic terrains, evoking a sense of tension and unease.

3. Scifiwave

Scifiwave, also known as sci-fi synthwave, delves into the futuristic and science-fiction aspects of the synthwave aesthetic. It embraces futuristic soundscapes, otherworldly melodies, and a sense of wonder. Scifiwave transports listeners to distant galaxies and envisions a future filled with technological marvels.

These subgenres, among others, showcase the versatility and creativity within the synthwave aesthetic. Each subgenre offers a unique take on the retro-futuristic sound, allowing artists to explore different themes and atmospheres.

The Popularity and Legacy of Synthwave

Synthwave remained a niche genre for many years, cherished by a dedicated community of fans. However, in recent years, it has gained mainstream recognition and left an indelible mark on popular culture. Let’s explore the popularity and legacy of synthwave:

1. Mainstream Recognition

Synthwave gained mainstream recognition through its inclusion in popular films and TV shows. The 2011 film “Drive,” starring Ryan Gosling, featured a synthwave-heavy soundtrack that introduced the genre to a wider audience. The film’s atmospheric and nostalgic music resonated with viewers, solidifying synthwave’s place in popular culture.

2. Cultural Impact

Synthwave’s cultural impact extends beyond the realm of music. The Netflix series “Stranger Things” embraced the synthwave aesthetic, using it to evoke a sense of 1980s nostalgia. The show’s iconic theme song, composed by Kyle Dixon and Michael Stein, became synonymous with the synthwave sound and further popularized the genre.

3. Subgenres and Blended Genres

As synthwave gained popularity, artists began experimenting with blending the genre with other styles and themes. Subgenres like “fashwave” and “Sovietwave” emerged, blending synthwave with political or nostalgic themes. These subgenres showcased the genre’s versatility and its ability to adapt and evolve.

4. Chart Success

In 2020, The Weeknd’s hit song “Blinding Lights” topped the charts worldwide. The song’s synthwave-influenced sound captured the attention of millions and brought the genre to an even wider audience. Its success demonstrated the enduring appeal of the synthwave aesthetic and its ability to resonate with listeners across different genres.

Synthwave’s legacy is still being written, with artists continuing to push the boundaries of the genre and explore new sonic territories. Its influence can be felt in various genres and art forms, solidifying its place as a cultural phenomenon.

FAQ

What is the synthwave aesthetic called?

The synthwave aesthetic is often referred to as “synthwave” or “outrun.” These terms are used interchangeably to describe the fusion of 1980s-inspired electronic music, visual aesthetics, and nostalgia.

What is the difference between synthwave and Vaporwave aesthetic?

While both synthwave and vaporwave draw inspiration from the 1980s, they have distinct differences. Synthwave focuses on the action, science-fiction, and horror film soundtracks of the 80s, capturing a sense of nostalgia for that era. Vaporwave, on the other hand, takes a more experimental and ambient approach, often deconstructing and recontextualizing 80s and 90s music and visuals.

What are the features of synthwave?

Synthwave is characterized by pulsating synthesizers, catchy melodies, retro drum machines, a nostalgic atmosphere, and a retro-futuristic vibe. It evokes a sense of longing for the 1980s and transports listeners to a world of neon-lit streets and futuristic landscapes.

Read more about “What Was the First Synthwave Song? …”

Is synthwave still a thing?

Absolutely! Synthwave continues to thrive and evolve, with new artists and releases emerging regularly. Its popularity has grown exponentially in recent years, and it shows no signs of slowing down. The genre has become a global phenomenon, with dedicated communities of fans and artists around the world.

Conclusion

The synthwave aesthetic is a captivating fusion of 1980s-inspired electronic music, visual aesthetics, and nostalgia. It captures the essence of the 1980s, evoking a sense of longing for a bygone era. Synthwave’s pulsating synthesizers, catchy melodies, and retro-futuristic vibes transport listeners to a world of neon-lit streets and futuristic landscapes. Whether you’re a fan of the music, the visuals, or the overall atmosphere, the synthwave aesthetic offers a captivating journey through time and sound.

So, why not immerse yourself in the mesmerizing world of synthwave? Explore the vast catalog of synthwave artists, dive into the subgenres, and let the nostalgic melodies and retro-futuristic visuals transport you to a bygone era. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to the genre, the synthwave aesthetic is sure to captivate your senses and leave you yearning for more.

Recommended Links

• CHECK PRICE on: Synthwave Music | Synthwave Merchandise
• Shop Synthwave on: Amazon | Walmart | Etsy
• Synth Pop Artists: Synth Pop Artists
• Iconic Synth Pop Songs: Iconic Synth Pop Songs
• Synth Pop Culture Impact: Synth Pop Culture Impact
• 80s Synth Pop: 80s Synth Pop

Reference Links

• Synthwave – Wikipedia
• Drive (2011 film)
• Hotline Miami (2012 video game)
• Stranger Things (Netflix series)

In addition to the above links, we recommend exploring the references provided in the Wikipedia article on synthwave for further reading and research. These sources offer valuable insights into the genre and its cultural impact.