Though the concept of “New Wave” isn’t as “new” as it was in 1983, the music genre seems to be coming back to life in this day and age. A slew of new bands are trading their snares in for drum machines, and their grand pianos for synthesizers –and many music zealots like it. The synth-overload may sound too pop and staged through many artists, but George Lewis Jr., mastermind behind ‘Twin Shadow’ has brought “brand-new” to “New Wave”.
The track “Slow” from his upcoming debut album, “Forget”, channels in a bit of 80’s legends such as Joy Division and Depeche Mode, but also throws in a dash of new-era alternative synth-pop as heard through M83. Drum machines, heavy bass lines, and electric notes sprinkle through the melody as Lewis pours is heart out through the lyrics and melancholy vocals. The ever-so-catchy chorus is shouted out as though it had been trapped in the heart and soul since…well, possibly 1983. It’s a simple track with many dynamics, but simplicity is what makes the song so easy and enjoyable to listen to. This genre may be aching for true hearted artists and it is almost certain that it may find it through one Twin Shadow.
