The resurgence of 1980s culture and entertainment has been noticeable across the television and fashion industries, and one retro band is putting a unique spin on the trend. The niche resurgence of 80s synthpop particularly has inspired Cubs Refrain's latest album, which emulates the traditional rock band setup with the use of analog synthesizers. The mainstream counterpart of this independent duo is probably making EDM instead.
What's innovative about Cubs Refrain's approach to making music is the way that they've handpicked sounds, styles, instruments and production practices from nearly 40 years of commercial music, leading the two engineer band members to DIY methods for recording, mixing and producing their tracks. And if you'd like to hear what this retro band has to offer, you have two very divergent options: stream them on Spotify, or purchase their concept album on vinyl –– the only physical release of 'Tell Me You Love Me.'
Synthesized Retro Bands
Cubs Refrain Repurposes 80s Synthpop for a Uniquely Refreshed Analog Sound
Trend Themes
1. Analog Synthpop Revival - Music and entertainment industries are capitalizing on the renewed interest in retro music, creating creative opportunities to breathe new life into analog equipment and methods.
2. Personalized Music Production - Independent artists are drawing upon decades of music-making practices, DIY methods, and skills to create music that’s truly unique and personalized.
3. Vinyl Resurgence - Surging demand for vintage vinyl records despite the rise of online streaming services is reshaping the music industry, creating new distribution opportunities in the process
Industry Implications
1. Music - The music industry has an opportunity to capitalize on analog synthpop and vintage vinyl trends by fusing cutting-edge production tools with industry-standard instruments and production methods.
2. Fashion - As retro culture has been increasingly popularized in fashion, music-themed clothing can promote themes of nostalgia and revive or reshape trends and fads of past decades.
3. Entertainment - Retro-inspired arts and entertainment programmes have opened up new opportunities for content producers to capitalize on the growing nostalgia of the 80s and breathe new life into previous trends using modern production methods.