89ers: The Synthwave Resurgence
The 89ers are an American synthwave duo known for reviving the cinematic sound of 1980s electronic music. Hailing from Los Angeles, California, the pair achieved a significant underground hit with their 2018 debut album, which charted on Billboard's Top Dance/Electronic Albums chart and fueled a renewed interest in the retro-futuristic genre.
Early career
The 89ers formed in 2015 when producers Alex Vance and Mara Solis met through an online music forum dedicated to vintage synthesizers. Bonding over a shared passion for the scores of John Carpenter and the pulsating rhythms of early electronic pop, they began crafting instrumental tracks in Vance's home studio. Their first official release was the 2016 self-published EP Neon Dreams, which quickly gained traction on streaming platforms and caught the attention of independent label Neon Noir Records.
Breakthrough
The duo's breakthrough arrived in 2018 with their debut full-length album, Midland Highway. Released via Neon Noir Records, the album's lead single, "Sunset Grid," became a staple on streaming playlists and specialty radio. Midland Highway debuted at number 12 on Billboard's Top Dance/Electronic Albums chart, a surprise success that was fueled by strong digital sales and a dedicated online fanbase, leading to a gold certification for the single "Neon Pulse" in their home country.
Key tracks
Sunset Grid — This driving lead single from Midland Highway defined the 89ers' signature blend of nostalgic melodies and modern production.
Neon Pulse — The track's infectious rhythm and iconic bassline earned it a gold certification and cemented its status as a genre anthem.
Midland Highway — The album's title track is a sprawling, cinematic journey that showcases the duo's skill at building atmosphere and narrative without words.
Circuit Breaker (feat. Dana V.) — This 2021 collaboration introduced vocals to their sound and expanded their audience into the mainstream electropop scene.
Following their breakthrough, the 89ers capitalized on their momentum with relentless touring and a consistent release schedule. Their sophomore album, 2021's Digital Horizon, featured a more polished sound and high-profile collaborations, including a track with famed film composer Michael B. The album peaked at number 8 on the electronic chart. They have since provided music for video game soundtracks and several cyberpunk-themed film trailers, further solidifying their position as leading figures in the modern synthwave movement.
Fans of the 89ers' nostalgic yet forward-thinking synthwave should also explore The Midnight. This American duo similarly merges 80s saxophone melodies with contemporary electronic production. Another key artist is Gunship, a British group known for their lush, vocal-driven synthwave anthems and cinematic music videos. For a darker, more driving take on the genre, listen to Perturbator, a French producer specializing in intense, soundtrack-inspired synth music. The pioneering work of Kavinsky, another French artist, shares the 89ers' love for retro aesthetics and narrative-driven instrumentals.
The 89ers' music maintains a strong presence on radio, particularly on dedicated synthwave and retro electronic online radio streams. Their tracks are frequently featured on independent music radio stations that specialize in underground electronic genres, as well as on specialty shows across various classic rock FM stations that explore the roots of modern synth music. This consistent airplay helps introduce their nostalgic sound to new listeners every day.
You can hear the pulsating retro-futuristic sounds of the 89ers on radio stations featured right here on onairium.com. Tune in to discover their key tracks and dive deeper into the vibrant world of synthwave music through our curated station lineup.
