Latest Synth-pop Posts

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It seems like this is the generation for people to strive for what they really want in life. Spending your free time working on your passion has become the rule these days, rather than the exception. That’s exactly what we’re showcasing today with Haunted Hauses. This Brooklyn based indie pop four piece began as a collective of friends including Leif Huckman (Ex Cops), Autry Fulbright (Trail of Dead) and Eric Rodgers (VHS or Beta). In between rehearsals and tours with their current bands, these fellas wrote and recorded songs in their spare time.

“Hunters” is the single from their upcoming debut EP. You can hear influences from all of the other projects these guys have been a part of, featuring a playful psych pop feel, with light fluttering synths. The large, tribal style drumming from Ian Longwell (producer and collaborator) creates a cinematic journey that effortlessly carries the powerful vocals.

Photo credits: Jason Koerner.

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We had the opportunity to attend the inaugural Coastline Festival 2013 on November 11th in West Palm Beach, FL. Located at the Cruzan Ampitheater. Turns out someone had the bright idea to get a bunch of food trucks, a multitude of beer breweries, and some of the finest names in indie music to come together and sustain/entertain the fine folks of South Florida.

The demographic of the festival-goers was truly diverse. The crowd ranged from teeny boppers and hipsters in wayfarers, and even an occasional neon-attired Aussie. The bands people stated they were there to see were almost as varied as the crowd themselves. With indie power houses like Passion Pit, Two Door Cinema Club, and Matt & Kim headlining, it was surprising how many fans listed other acts as their most anticipated. LA based Fitz and the Tantrums had a strong showing of listeners, along with the Cali quintet The Neighbourhood, scoring significant mentions during our very unscientific polling.

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Matt & Kim blew us away with their dynamic stage presence and command of the crowd. Balloons, drummer booty shakin’, and gangsta beats all intertwined between energy filled tracks left us flabbergasted at what a two person band could do with their time slot. Two Door Cinema Club opened their flood gates of auditory excellence upon us as well. Their harmonic crooning coincided with punchy bass lines and meandering guitar riffs to provide an almost surreal experience. The effect was so powerful that after their third song we overheard a gentleman next to us proclaim, “Dude, I’m going to download EVERYTHING from them!” Noob.

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Music wasn’t the only attraction at this unique festival. The “Food Trucktopia” put together by event organizers was a thing of culinary beauty. Featuring mobile restaurants from all over South Florida, the lines for all the trucks stayed packed throughout the event. Our personal favorite delectable cuisine option was “Ms. Cheezious”. We’re no stranger to her sexy sourdough, and Ms. Cheezious truly brought out her very best for the occasion. The West Palm crowd knew quality when they tasted it, and Ms. Cheezious sold out their stock of grilled cheese goodness, well before the other trucks hit their breaking point. Other fan favorites were “Fry Daddy”, serving up delicious fried…everything…and “The Rolling Stove” with their bodacious brisket.

There’s nothing better than coupling the best grilled cheese sandwich you’ve ever had with an ice cold beer. Coastline Festival ensured a fine selection of craft beers were at our disposal for just such a chance. “Craft Beer Cove” provided an oasis of microbrews for us to sample, most noteworthy on our radar being Florida representatives “Funky Buddha Brewery” and “Tequesta Brewing Company”.

Bathrooms were plentiful. Service staff was courteous and knowledgeable. Security was present and alert, yet unobtrusive. Vendor booths were original. Artists were talented and inventive. The acoustics at the venue were excellent. The light show was awe inspiring. Coastline Festival was a complete success in our humble opinion, and an experience we hope to have again this time next year. Bravo!

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It’s like there’s a party in my ears, and all you ninjas are invited! With a subtle nod to the King of Pop, UK based Dornik has a vocal tone that reminds of us of our childhood. Slip on your singular white glove, lie back and listen to this synth driven pop gem.

Coming off his debut album, due on PMR next year, we’re already greedily tapping our fingers, Mr. Burns style. Make sure to keep an eye out for it by liking Dornik’s facebook page.