The synthwave genre, often synonymous with pulsing neon lights and a dose of ’80s nostalgia, has evolved into a full-fledged movement that bridges the past and the future. Throughout the 2010s, bands and solo producers like Kavinsky, Carpenter Brut, and Perturbator introduced a new generation to lush synthesizers and vintage drum machine beats. Yet one facet of synthwave that continues to gain traction is the rise of vocal-centric acts. These groups blend the dreamy, retro atmosphere of classic synth music with charismatic singers and powerful lyrics, creating unforgettable anthems that feel both familiar and boldly modern.
Below, we spotlight some of the most exciting synthwave bands in 2024 that showcase strong vocal performances, proving that this genre is anything but an instrumental-only affair.
The Midnight
One of the most recognizable names in vocal-driven synthwave, The Midnight has spent the last decade perfecting an evocative blend of nostalgic keyboards and heartfelt singing. Their music features warm sax solos, crisp electronic drums, and impassioned vocal hooks—particularly from Tyler Lyle. Following their breakout records like Endless Summer and Kids, they returned in 2023 with Monsters Revisited, an expanded version of their 2020 album, and hints of new material slated for late 2024.
Gunship
Gunship offers a cinematic take on synthwave, seamlessly combining driving synth lines, moody guitar riffs, and hauntingly rich vocals from Dan Haigh and Alex Westaway. Their 2021 album, Dark All Day, demonstrated a knack for weaving pop melodies into brooding, neon-lit soundscapes. Known for visually stunning music videos and collaborations with artists from other genres, Gunship continues to innovate, revealing teasers for an upcoming album that promises even more immersive storytelling.
LeBrock
Armed with soaring vocals and thunderous synth riffs, LeBrock conjures the spirit of ’80s power ballads infused with modern electro flair. The duo’s anthemic single “Runaway” gained traction in the synthwave community, pushing them to explore bigger, bolder production on subsequent releases. Their 2023 EP, Gone, showcased an evolution in songwriting and arrangement, with lush vocal harmonies and guitar solos interwoven throughout. In 2024, they continue to ride the wave of success, frequently popping up on genre-spanning festival bills.
FM-84
Producer Col Bennett (FM-84) teams up with vocalist Ollie Wride to craft emotionally charged synthwave tracks that revolve around top-tier vocal hooks. Their debut album, Atlas, gained cult status, particularly for the single “Running in the Night.” After a short hiatus, FM-84 released a string of singles in 2023 that revealed a slightly heavier electronic influence yet retained their signature heartfelt flair. Fans eagerly await news of a follow-up album rumored to drop in 2024.
NINA
Synthpop artist NINA is known for her dreamy, ethereal singing style. She has carved out a unique sound that merges synthwave’s analog warmth with a dash of pop elegance. Her 2020 album, Synthian, expanded her fanbase significantly. Since then, NINA’s collaboration with various producers has yielded a handful of singles that emphasize emotional narratives and cinematic atmosphere. In 2024, she’s rumored to be working on an ambitious concept album that further explores sci-fi themes with a personal twist.
Scandroid
Spearheaded by Klayton (known for Celldweller), Scandroid is a multifaceted project that brings vocals front and center. Drawing on new wave, rock, and cyberpunk aesthetics, Scandroid’s releases feature neon-lit melodies alongside Klayton’s signature vocal lines. Albums like Monochrome and The Darkness and The Light showcase the project’s range—from darker, heavier pieces to shimmering pop-laced tracks. The 2024 horizon looks bright, with rumors of another double album exploring contrasting sonic moods.
Wolfclub
Wolfclub’s music resides at the intersection of sun-kissed synthwave, indie pop, and dance-rock vibes. Their catchy melodies and emotive vocals evoke images of teenage road trips, glowing sunsets, and carefree summer nights. Consistent output has been a hallmark of Wolfclub’s rise, with multiple albums and EPs released in quick succession over the past few years. In 2024, their blend of upbeat rhythms and dreamy vocals continues to draw new fans into the synthwave fold.
Hypernova Haze
A recent addition to the list of Synthwave bands with vocals, Hypernova Haze offers that deep synth sound mixed with clean vocals and hard hitting choruses. Their debut album, Echos of Liberation tells the story of a dystopian uprising in a cyberpunk future. The grim future in the world of cyberpunk does not reflect the exciting future ahead for this band.
Essenger
Essenger’s music leans toward a darker, more futuristic corner of synthwave, combining industrial textures with melodic vocal passages. Tracks like “After Dark” and “Empire of Steel” highlight a powerful fusion of pulsing basslines, glitchy effects, and stirring choruses. Despite challenges in touring due to the complexity of live electronics, Essenger has performed high-profile festival sets and built a dedicated global following. With a new concept EP on the way, 2024 might see Essenger pushing the boundaries of vocal-driven synthwave even further.
Timecop1983
Known primarily for instrumental tracks, Timecop1983 also collaborates with vocalists like Josh Dally and SEAWAVES to add emotive layers to his warm, nostalgia-tinged compositions. His romantic ’80s cinematic style pairs perfectly with smooth vocal lines, making songs like “Let’s Talk” fan favorites. As streaming services continue to put synthwave on the global map, Timecop1983’s collaborations remain go-to tracks for listeners craving that perfect balance of dreamy melodies and heartfelt singing.
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