The 5 Most Influential Synthwave Albums

The 1980s were a decade of excess, and nowhere was that more apparent than in the world of music. With the advent of synthesizers and digital sampling, artists were able to create sounds that had never been heard before, and the results were often mind-bending.

In the world of synthwave, there are a handful of albums that have been particularly influential in shaping the sound and style of the genre. Here are five of the most influential synthwave albums of all time.

1. Kraftwerk – Computer World

Kraftwerk are often cited as being one of the most important influences on synthwave, and it's easy to see why. Their 1981 album "Computer World" is a perfect example of how innovative and ahead of their time they were. The album is full of catchy, danceable tracks that are underpinned by complex layers of synths and samples. It's an essential listen for any fan of synthwave.

2. Vangelis – Blade Runner Soundtrack

The soundtrack to Ridley Scott's classic film "Blade Runner" is one of the most iconic and influential pieces of music ever created. Vangelis' use of synthesizers creates a dark, atmospheric soundscape that perfectly complements the film's neo-noir visuals. The soundtrack is essential listening for any fan of synthwave or film music in general.

3. Giorgio Moroder – E=MC²

Giorgio Moroder is a true pioneer in the world of electronic music, and his 1978 album "E=MC²" is a perfect example of his groundbreaking work. The album is full of catchy disco tracks that feature some truly innovative use of synthesizers and other electronic instruments. It's an essential listen for any fan of disco or electronic music in general.

4. Yellow Magic Orchestra – Technodelic

Yellow Magic Orchestra are often cited as being one of the most important influences on synthwave, and their 1981 album "Technodelic" is a perfect example of why. The album is full of catchy, danceable tracks that feature some truly innovative use of synthesizers and other electronic instruments. It's an essential listen for any fan of synthwave or electronic music in general.

5. Jean Michel Jarre – Oxygene

Jean Michel Jarre is another true pioneer in the worldof electronic music, and his 1976 album "Oxygene" is a perfect exampleof his groundbreaking work . The album is fullof atmospheric tracks that feature some truly innovative useof synthesizersand other electronic instruments . It ' s anessential listenfor any fanof synthwaveor electronicmusicin general .