The 80s in 08

I'm starting to get that bleached-jean feeling again.

The 1980s sound is back in full force with new releases by Aussie outfit Cut Copy and French composer Anthony Gonzalez, aka M83.

Cut Copy's In Ghost Colours takes over where 2004's Bright Like Neon Love left off, but in the process refining and maturing the band's sound. I think it's safe to say that Cut Copy isn't influenced by the music of the 1980s, but rather is creating new music to extend the Reagan era into a post-W world. After a couple of listens, I found myself bobbing my head and making awkward herky-jerky movements that some, though not many, would consider "dancing." My wife was amused.

M83's Saturday = Youth pays homage to young love through synthesizer-drenched compositions that call to mind the best of 1980s cinema. It is no surprise that Cocteau Twins producer Ken Thomas also produced Saturday = Youth, though I was shocked by how different this album sounded compared to my previous exposure to M83. I was ready for dramatic instrumental compositions with a thunderous crescendo, and instead found myself transported back to my pre-teen years.

Cut Copy - Lights and Music

M83 - Kim & Jessie