Survive: The Architects of Modern Synthwave
Survive is an American electronic music quartet from Austin, Texas, best known for their atmospheric and haunting synth-driven soundscapes. Their major breakthrough came from composing the critically acclaimed and commercially successful score for the Netflix series Stranger Things, which propelled them to international fame.
Early career
Survive formed in 2009, bringing together Kyle Dixon, Michael Stein, Adam Jones, and Mark Donica. The band emerged from Austin's vibrant DIY music scene, initially crafting instrumental tracks for local film projects and honing their sound with a collection of vintage analog synthesizers. Their first self-titled EP was released in 2009, followed by their debut full-length album, mnq026, on the boutique label Monotreme Records in 2012.
Breakthrough
The group's career trajectory changed dramatically in 2016 when Dixon and Stein were hired to score the debut season of the hit Netflix series Stranger Things. The show's 80s-inspired aesthetic perfectly matched Survive's retro-futuristic sound, making the soundtrack a global phenomenon. The Stranger Things soundtrack album reached number 15 on the Billboard 200 chart and was certified Gold in the United States, a rare feat for an instrumental score.
Key tracks
Stranger Things Theme — This instantly recognizable main title theme earned Survive a Grammy nomination and defined the auditory identity of the worldwide hit series.
A.H.B. — A standout track from their 2016 album RR7349, it showcases their mastery of building tension and expansive, cinematic atmosphere.
Dirge — This brooding, rhythmic cut from their debut album established the dark, pulsating foundation of their early sound.
Other — Featured on the Stranger Things 2 soundtrack, this track exemplifies their ability to blend melodic beauty with underlying dread.
Following the massive success of the Stranger Things score, Survive returned focus to their band project, releasing their sophomore album, RR7349, in 2016 on Relapse Records. The album debuted at number 7 on the Billboard Dance/Electronic Albums chart, proving their appeal extended far beyond television. They have since contributed to other film projects and continue to tour, performing their immersive, hardware-based live sets to dedicated audiences worldwide.
Fans of Survive's synth-heavy, cinematic style should also explore the work of similar artists in the electronic and synthwave genres. Discover John Carpenter, the legendary filmmaker and composer whose minimalist scores directly influenced the genre. The pulsating arpeggios and dark moods of Perturbator share a clear lineage with Survive's more intense moments. For a more melodic take on retro-electronics, try Timecop1983, who specializes in lush, dreamy synthwave. The driving, soundtrack-ready work of Gunship also offers a compelling blend of synth textures with modern production.
Survive's music maintains a strong presence on radio, particularly on specialty electronic and independent music radio stations, as well as on online radio streams dedicated to film scores and underground synth music. Their unique sound bridges the gap between nostalgic appreciation and contemporary electronic composition, making them a staple in diverse programming.
You can hear the gripping electronic music of Survive on a variety of radio stations featured right here on onairium.com. Tune in to discover their iconic themes and deep album cuts, broadcast through our curated selection of stations perfect for fans of atmospheric synthwave.
