The bizarrely infectious material of Seattle-based Heatwarmer flaunts loosely vibrant arrangements that remind of ’80s pop visionaries like Scritti Politti and Prefab Sprout. Like the songwriting of Green Gartside or Paddy McAloon, Heatwarmer aren’t afraid to use synths that may sound nostalgically outdated; their playful melodies and constantly moving song structures actually fit them to a tee. Their superb new single “Keep Shining Through”, off their upcoming summer full-length debut, is catching at first listen. A driving bass line is the formative backbone, as vocals ascend from nonchalance to an elegant synth-accompanied flash of fantastical infectiousness. Woodwinds, chirpy synth pads, and luscious atmospheric pads help form the ensuing verse, which resembles Ice Choir in its nostalgic use of ’80s synths. The likes of Kurt Feldman and Heatwarmer may sound a few decades too late at first, but it becomes noticeable early on that their songcraft exceeds that of many others attempting a polished modern sound. “Keep Shining Through” is sheer innovation, and I can’t wait for Heatwarmer’s album this summer.
