Neon Valley’s latest single ‘Dancin’’ continues their signature trend of revisiting the funky eighties and mashing those familiar sounds up with the electronic elements dominating the scene today. ‘Dancin’’ similarly straddles the line between nostalgic and futuristic, working those synth riffs to perfection as the lead singer’s vocals reverberate soothingly in the first verse. 

It is not simply the classic electric guitar notes or the chiptunes reminiscent of addicting arcade video games that render the sound characteristic of the 80s’--Neon Valley incorporates the sweet, emotional tones of that era, as conveyed by the vulnerable lead-up to the chorus. Picture the angst, the heartbreak, the gaudy prom decor and a rebellious edge that defined the decade and its cinematic classics: this song is perhaps the best sort of score for that purpose. 

This duo from Montreal has been hustling in the Canadian music scene for a few years now, and have built quite a fervent following, not just among the festival-goers in Canada but the traction received through being featured on Spotify’s most distinguished indie lists. Seeing how their music speaks to the universal themes, that of having a good time and finding oneself through the power of performance and art, it is not difficult to see why they have been rising through the ranks and establishing their presence on the stage. 

With basslines as juicy as the ones in ‘Dancin’, their sound is designed for a funky night out. Their music is reminiscent of the techno era revived by Daft Punk in the early 2000s, and this inspiration becomes solidified through the track’s bridge, which features extensive automated layered vocals. Yet the groovy vibes return to the chorus again, and with just the right intensity, the listeners can expect to get to their feet and sway their hips to this sugary, infectious mix straight from the 80s’ treasure chest. 

 Pop      Funk