The project’s namesake referencing its aspirations to an audible 1981 setting, Planet 81 strut a charismatic synth-pop and funk-tinged rock dazzling on new single “Moneymaker.”
“The goal was to produce a record as if it was being made back then,” the act explains. “The hope was that by using the same sorts of tools and processes—and facing similar limitations—I might approach the optimistic and guilelessly artificial vibe that could be found in records like prince’s “controversy” and hall & oates’ “private eyes.” This track was the first to emerge, built around an unabashedly greedy pop hook and slathered with post-disco funk grooves.”
“Doggies playing out in the yard,” vocals let out — describing an idyllic suburbia setting, fit for ’80s films — as spritzy synths and vocal ardency combine with funky guitar tones into the “one by one,” satiating hook. “Moneymaker” excels in its fusing of perky synths and suave guitar lines throughout, firmly succeeding in its throwback ’80s vibe and hook-abundant charm.
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This and other tracks featured this month can be streamed on the updating Obscure Sound’s ‘Best of November 2023’ Spotify playlist.
