Minute Taker’s upcoming album looks set to be a retro-future synthwave powerhouse

Over the last few years, Minute Taker (aka Ben McGarvey) has shifted his sound from alternative piano rock to neon-drenched synthwave. His forthcoming album ‘The Oblivion’ will open with his latest single ‘Surrender to the Night’. Inspired by some of his favourite films like Blade Runner, Lost Boys, and The Terminator (I see that Kyle Reese trench coat in full dramatic effect, Mr MT), the track is an ode to parking the daily chores and getting ready for a night out. The music video itself turns this into something more sinister with enough stage fog and evil red eyes to launch an 80s werewolf show. I’m not surprised, following the excellent 2024 album ‘Wolf Hours’.

The track itself basks in its gritty, chiselled, angular bassline. At times, it evokes Björk’s ‘Thunderbolt’, and elsewhere it channels aggressive cinematic 80’s synthwave. With dramatic dictaphone spoken snippets, huge drums, and even a sax outro, it’s a track that builds itself up to a satisfying finale. It follows ‘Into The Dark‘, a homage to bands like Crowded House and Tears For Fears, and the incredibly catchy ‘Sleep-In Sundays‘. The latter track could slot into almost any 80’s coming-of-age movie. It has that upbeat, hopeful quality to it, whilst maintaining a touch of sanguinity. If you like synthwave music with a darker, sensual caress, look no further.

You can support Minute Taker directly through the Minute Taker Store, and visit the Minute Taker website for the release date of the album and tour dates.

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