Modern Artists Reviving the Glitz of the 80s: A Timeless Sound Resurrected

As trends wax and wane, some musical sounds stand the test of time. Artists like Mitski have managed to infuse their contemporary work with the vibrant and nostalgic elements of the 80s. However, it's not just Mitski's latest album that captures the essence of the 80s; there are others who are equally adept at preserving and reimagining this era's music.

Contemporary Artists with an 80s Influence

Drab Majesty: A New Wave Duo Redefining the 80s Sound

Drab Majesty, a duo from Los Angeles, is bringing a fresh perspective to the 80s sound. With their latest album, they have crafted a series of songs that harken back to the new wave and goth scenes of the early 1980s. Their music is a blend of beautiful melodic structures and surprisingly thoughtful lyrics.

Key elements of the Drab Majesty sound include:

Ms. Murph-style vocals Extensive use of LinnDrum drum kits/patches Snare drums mixed with massive gated reverb tails Arpeggiated Fender Stratocaster guitars bathed in chorus and modulated reverb/delay Heavy use of analog and 'period-appropriate' digital synth patches Notable 8th note synth bass lines

Influences range from iconic bands like The Cure, Siouxsie and the Banshees, Bauhaus, Joy Division, Depeche Mode, Clan of Xymox, Tears For Fears, Killing Joke, and Gary Numan.

Sunmi: K-pop Star With an 80s Disco Edge

K-pop star and former Wonder Girls member Sunmi has ventures into the 80s with her music. Her recent singles are direct callbacks to late-1980s Italo Disco that swept through Europe, Asia, and South America, much like the production style of German pop guru Dieter Bolan. Major artists like Bad Boys Blue, Modern Talking, C.C. Catch, and Sandra Cretu have also inspired her.

Sunmi's music is not just a homage to the 80s; it is a fully immersive experience with catchy choruses that are both nostalgic and contemporary.

Tory Lanez: A Hip-Hop Heartthrob Revisiting the 80s

Even in the world of hip-hop, Tory Lanez has managed to incorporate the 80s sound into his latest album, “Ballers Live 4ever.” In his song “Keeping My Hoes in Check,” there's a distinct 80s vibe reminiscent of Bob Wills, a country and western music icon known for his heartfelt ballads. Tory's song speaks to the enduring appeal of 80s pop and the way it continues to influence modern music.

The Revival of 80s Music in the Modern Era

The revival of 80s music in the modern era signifies a deeper connection between the past and the present. Artists like Mitksi, Drab Majesty, Sunmi, and Tory Lanez are not just paying homage to the sound but are redefining it for contemporary audiences. These artists are part of a broader trend in which 80s pop is being used as a tool to evoke emotion, create nostalgia, and even influence the direction of modern music.

The success of these artists proves that the vibrant and iconic sounds of the 80s can be perfectly blended with modern musical styles, creating a fusion that is both timeless and relevant. It is a testament to the enduring appeal of the 80s that these artists are able to make such a seamless transition.