- Words Yazzi Gokcemen
Dropping her new nostalgic single 'On & On' today, London songwriter and producer Faye Meana selects 10 of her favourite 80s-synth inspired tracks.
'Only You' by Theophilus London, Tame Impala
Steve Monite’s version is a classic and a longtime favourite of mine but there’s something about Theo’s voice on this track that just takes it to the next level. You just can’t help but move when this track comes on.
'Quédate' by MJ Nebreda
This was actually my top track from last year. It embodies the summer for me. The most appropriate place to listen to it is driving on the motorway with the windows down and the sun shining. Production and the vocal mix on this track are killer.
'star signs' by Odunsi (The Engine), Runtown
This song opening with that bright crunchy synth, *chefs kiss. The blend of Afrobeats and 80s synth-pop is actually perfect. I love Odunsi’s style of production, it reminds me of Dev Hynes' earlier stuff.
'Since I Left You' by The Avalanches
There are almost 20 samples in this song, of something crazy like that. It’s a huge blend of songs from so many eras. My dad used to play this song like crazy when I was a kid so I have some good connotations with it. I think it’s a masterpiece, to be able to mesh so many songs together and make this crazy atmospheric sound.
'Love Come Down' by Evelyn "Champagne" King
This is an indisputable classic. I’ve drawn a lot of inspiration from the heavily stacked harmonies in the choruses. This song has to be laced with something because it never gets old.
'Last Night' by Dabeull, Jordan Lee
Dabeull’s whole character personifies a late '70s porn star and this song matches that perfectly. It's such a sultry, late '70s early '80s funky electronic tune.
'Idol Eyes' by Common Saints
This tune is a perfect culmination of the dreamy, psychedelic production from the '80s. But the buttery smooth vocals make you realise this song is from the 21st century.
'Oblivion' by Grimes
I couldn’t not include this song. It's the blueprint to synth-pop. The production is actually so simple but it’s just so perfectly executed. It will never get old.
'Paris' by Little Dragon
I discovered Little Dragon when I was 16 and it was one of the driving forces for me wanting to produce myself, cementing my love for electronic sounds. I love Yukimi’s style of writing, it’s so unique.
'It’s Been a Little Heavy Lately' by Joesef
This is a fairly recent find for me. It was stuck in my head for weeks. The melody is so catchy and his silky vocals really are the cherry on top. Lyrically, it's a pretty depressing song but the production gives it an uplifting feeling.
