Synthetic Summer, the pop electronic group known for their vibrant fusion of past and future sounds, has just dropped their latest album, Kaleidoscope. This record is a shimmering homage to the 1980s, an era famed for its revolutionary synthesizer sounds and groundbreaking drum machines...
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Synthetic Summer, the pop electronic group known for their vibrant fusion of past and future sounds, has just dropped their latest album, Kaleidoscope. This record is a shimmering homage to the 1980s, an era famed for its revolutionary synthesizer sounds and groundbreaking drum machines. With influences drawn from the iconic Roland Juno 106 and Jupiter series synthesizers, Kaleidoscope invites listeners on a nostalgic journey while embracing a rich variety of genres.

The album opens with “Synesthesia,” a track that perfectly sets the tone with lush, cascading synth bass tones created with the Juno 106. The song’s upbeat tempo and infectious hooks immediately transport listeners back to a time when synthesizers ruled the charts. From there, Kaleidoscope ventures through a colorful landscape of pop, rock, funk, and soul, showcasing Synthetic Summer’s versatility and deep reverence for the era’s sonic palette.

“Your Heart Belongs To Me,” one of the standout rock-pop tracks, epitomizes the album’s commitment to 1980s authenticity. The track's electrifying guitar riffs add a rock edge to the album, blending seamlessly with the retro synth leads to create a sound that feels both timeless and refreshingly modern.

In a nod to funk and soul, “Subpop” shines with its soulful vocals and groovy basslines. The song’s production incorporates a smooth electric piano layered over a rhythm section that echoes the classic feel of the soul drummers of past. The result is a track that’s both funky and heartfelt, embodying the emotional depth and rhythmic complexity of its 1980s influences.

Kaleidoscope is more than just a nostalgic throwback; it’s a celebration of the enduring impact of 1980s electronic pop and rock. Synthetic Summer’s ability to weave together various genres while paying homage to classic synthesizer sounds results in a dynamic and engaging listening experience. Whether you’re a fan of retro synths or simply looking for an album that blends the old with the new, Kaleidoscope promises to be a standout addition to your music collection.

Cover artwork by the very talented Lydia Talamantes. Thank you Lydia!

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Recording Info: Recorded at the Flowerpot Seattle

Musician Credits: All written and performed by Dave Flowers and Jon Talamantes except for Karina and Rio (by Dave Flowers, Jon Talamantes, and Claudio Vacalebre) and Distracted by Reality IV (by Dave Flowers, Jon Talamantes, Malaika Brodeur and Claudio Vacalebre). Cover artwork by the very talented Lydia Talamantes. Thank you Lydia!

Genre: Pop
Catalog Number: Polyester 039