Saturday 1st February 2025: Live at the Kimkattia Dome: DJ Katt Aurora will be playing another round of synthwave, retrowave, vaporwave, 80s-throwbacks, remixes and more.
SPOTLIGHT!
FM Attack: Synthwave’s Shining Beacon
The vibrant world of synthwave, with its neon glow and nostalgic nods to the 1980s, has grown exponentially over the past decade. Among its luminaries stands FM Attack, the brainchild of Canadian producer and musician Shawn Ward. Known for weaving evocative soundscapes that blend retro sensibilities with modern production, FM Attack has become a cornerstone of the genre, captivating fans across the globe with its dreamy melodies and pulsing rhythms.
The Origin of a Retro Revolution
FM Attack burst onto the scene in 2009 with the release of Dreamatic, an album that many now consider one of the definitive synthwave records. At a time when the genre was in its infancy, Dreamatic offered a cohesive blend of Italo disco, synthpop, and electro influences, coupled with Ward's keen sense of melody and atmosphere. Tracks like "Yesterday" and "Sleepless Nights" transported listeners to a cinematic realm—a soundtrack for imagined montages of sunlit beaches, neon-soaked streets, and wistful romance.
Ward’s ability to tap into the zeitgeist of 1980s nostalgia while maintaining a forward-thinking approach to music production set FM Attack apart from the crowd. Drawing inspiration from artists like Giorgio Moroder, Depeche Mode, and New Order, Ward filtered these influences through his own unique lens, crafting music that felt both familiar and refreshingly new.
Defining the FM Attack Sound
What truly defines FM Attack is its emotive core. While many synthwave artists lean heavily on the bombast of action-movie soundtracks or dystopian aesthetics, FM Attack carves out a space for introspection and romanticism. His tracks often feature lush, shimmering synthesizers layered over driving basslines and crisp percussion. This sonic palette is further elevated by Ward’s occasional use of vocal collaborators, who bring an emotional immediacy to his tracks.
The album Stellar (2017) marked a turning point in FM Attack’s evolution. Expanding upon the dreamy textures of his earlier work, Ward introduced more complex arrangements and a heavier reliance on analog synths. Songs like "Dreamer" and "Echoes" showcased his ability to blend introspective lyrics with expansive, cinematic production. The album solidified his position not only as a leader in synthwave but also as an artist capable of transcending genre boundaries.
The Visual Aesthetic
In addition to the music, FM Attack’s visual identity plays a crucial role in his appeal. Album covers and promotional materials are steeped in retro-futuristic imagery: sunsets, palm trees, and retro cars rendered in vibrant neon hues. This carefully curated aesthetic complements the music perfectly, creating a holistic experience for fans that extends beyond the auditory.
Ward has also embraced the power of live performance, transforming FM Attack into a dynamic presence on stage. Whether headlining synthwave festivals or playing intimate club shows, he brings an infectious energy that translates his studio-crafted perfection into a visceral live experience.
Collaborations and Legacy
Over the years, FM Attack has collaborated with other prominent figures in the synthwave scene, including Timecop1983 and Mecha Maiko. These collaborations underscore Ward’s ability to adapt his sound to different contexts while remaining true to his artistic vision.
FM Attack’s influence on the genre cannot be overstated. Many contemporary synthwave artists cite him as a key inspiration, and his albums continue to be touchstones for fans and newcomers alike. The blend of heartfelt nostalgia and cutting-edge production in his work has helped synthwave evolve from a niche movement into a globally recognized phenomenon.
Looking Ahead
Despite synthwave’s growing popularity, Ward remains refreshingly grounded, focusing on crafting music that resonates on a personal level. With each new release, FM Attack proves that nostalgia doesn’t have to be static—it can evolve and adapt, creating new emotional connections with each listener.
In a genre that sometimes risks becoming a parody of its influences, FM Attack stands as a beacon of authenticity and artistic integrity. Shawn Ward has not only defined the sound of a movement but has also created timeless music that transcends its retro roots.
As synthwave continues to expand into the mainstream, FM Attack’s enduring legacy will serve as a reminder of the genre’s potential to touch hearts and minds, one shimmering synth at a time.