Top 10 Synthwave Albums: Blast From the Past!

Synthwave is a genre that has surged in popularity, influencing movie soundtracks and mainstream pop. This article looks back at the defining albums that have shaped this movement. While some popularized the genre, others have solidified a new generation that is redefining its rules. Here are the 10 greatest Synthwave albums of all time:

“AKUMA II” (2019) by Tokyo Rose & ALEX

Tokyo Rose and ALEX make an impressive team. They have collaborated on multiple projects, including two full albums, proving themselves as accomplished artists in the Synthwave universe. Their second team-up album, “AKUMA II” (the follow-up to 2017’s “AKUMA”), solidified them as all-time greats.

From its first single, “Affliction”, released with a stunning animated music video, “AKUMA II” set a new standard, shocking fans. The Darksynth album is strong and sinister, with impeccable production work that helped it chart on Billboard. “AKUMA II” is a banger that deserves its place in the Synthwave hall of fame.

“Galactic Melt” (2011) by Com Truise

Seth Haley (A.K.A Com Truise) is a true legend of Synthwave and a pioneer of the genre’s current form. His groundbreaking 2011 debut album, “Galactic Melt”, cemented his OG status.

The soft, dreamy, and groovy style of this album is considered a masterpiece, often credited for the rise of Chillwave. Com Truise delivered a unique album with clever melodies, sound design, and an unheard-of vibe. While his following albums have been successful, nothing beats the raw mastery of “Galactic Melt”.

“Night Drive” (2018) by Timecop1983

Any Synthwave enthusiast has heard of Timecop1983. The Dutch producer has given us some of the genre’s biggest hits, many from his 2018 album “Night Drive”.

“Night Drive” solidified Timecop1983’s position as a Synthwave star. His talent for capturing the 80’s aesthetic through incredible productions is unmatched, bringing the “retro” in Retro Wave.

“Sleepwalking” (2018) by NINA

Nina Boldt, known as NINA (or the Mother of Synthians), is a muse of the Synthwave world. Her vibrant creativity and willingness to change things up helped her develop a strong identity, showcased in her 2018 debut, “Sleepwalking”.

NINA surprised everyone with a brilliant first album, featuring hits like “Beyond Memory” and “Sleepwalking”, praised for its vocal work and music video. The neat production style in “Sleepwalking” has become a signature for NINA, making her music beloved in the Synthwave scene.

“Neon West” (2019) by Wayfloe

Wayfloe, the mysterious duo from Canada, is becoming royalty in Synthwave. Their unique artistic universe and sound are beyond anything the genre has known. Their debut album, “Neon West”, is an artistic triumph.

Wayfloe incorporates various music genres into their Synthwave sounds, including Hip-Hop, Rock, Electro, and Pop. They experiment and make every song special. Their second album, “Celestials”, is highly anticipated.

“Hurry Up, We’re Dreaming” (2011) by M83

Anthony Gonzalez, known as M83, has a style that stands out in the Synthwave world, leading to massive projects. From the “Oblivion” soundtrack to Cirque Du Soleil’s “Volta” score, M83’s imagination is endless. His 2011 album “Hurry Up, We’re Dreaming” exemplifies this.

This album took the world by storm, mainly thanks to “Midnight City”, the most famous Synthpop song of all time. The cinematic aspect of his music blends genres seamlessly, creating something out of this world. “Hurry Up, We’re Dreaming” is one of the best and most unique Synthwave albums ever made.

“Love Is Dead” (2018) by CHVRCHES

Synthpop has seen a reinvention in the past decade, and CHVRCHES has mastered the “retro yet modern” art of Synthpop. Lauren Mayberry and her bandmates have had a monumental impact, becoming the face of Synthpop, thanks to their third album “Love Is Dead”.

This fun, energetic album has achieved unmatched success in the Synthwave world. With songs streamed over 100 million times on Spotify, “Love Is Dead” is the genre’s biggest album ever made, a pillar of modern Synthpop.

“Endless Summer” (2016) by The Midnight

The Midnight is well-known in mainstream Synthwave, becoming kings of the genre. Many of their songs are classics, mostly from their 2016 album “Endless Summer”.

“Endless Summer” is an essential Synthwave album that redefined the genre’s standards in style and quality. With songs like “Sunset” and “The Comeback Kid”, the album is a love letter to the 80’s aesthetic. The Midnight charted on Billboard, paving the way for other artists.

“Tron: Legacy” (2010) by Daft Punk

Synthwave is cinematic, so it’s not surprising that one of the greatest albums is a movie soundtrack by Daft Punk.

Disney’s “Tron: Legacy”, released in 2010, featured an unbelievable soundtrack. The instrumental album is a cinematic trip in the futuristic world of Tron, popularizing Synthwave with hits like “Derezzed”.

A new Tron film starring Jared Leto is in development, and fans hope for Daft Punk’s return. The Tron franchise has become synonymous with Daft Punk, thanks to the timeless “Tron: Legacy” soundtrack.

“OutRun” (2013) by Kavinsky

No list of the best in Synthwave is complete without Kavinsky. He is the god of Synthwave, inspiring many artists redefining the genre. The reason? “OutRun”.

“OutRun” is a masterpiece in every way. Every song is a classic, with “Nightcall” widely regarded as the greatest Synthwave track of all time, especially after its feature in the 2011 movie “Drive”.

“OutRun” remains Kavinsky’s latest outing, but a new album is expected soon, marking the end of a 7-year hiatus.