What is Spacesynth?

Spacesynth (aka synthdance) is a style of electronic music built around synthesizers, strong melodies, driving rhythms and futuristic sounds.

The style is closely associated with the electronic music of the 1980s, particularly Italo disco and synth-pop, but has developed its own distinctive sound.

Typical SpaceSynth elements include:

• Synthesizer melodies and lead sounds

• Basic electronic drum patterns

• Fast basslines

• Arpeggios and sequenced patterns

• Atmospheric pads and electronic effects

• Sometimes futuristic and space-inspired sound design

• Strong, memorable melodic hooks

A characteristic feature of spacesynth is the combination of energetic dance rhythms with melodic and atmospheric synthesizer arrangements.

Classic spacesynth often has a distinctly 1980s electronic sound, with repeating melodic hooks, sequenced patterns, driving rhythms and futuristic special effects. Artists and projects such as Laserdance, Koto, Proxyon and Cyber People are closely associated with the classic spacesynth sound and have been important influences on the style. Modern productions can combine these classic characteristics with contemporary synthesizers, production techniques and mastering. 

The classic sound was also shaped by the synthesizers and drum machines of the era. Instruments such as the Roland Juno-106, Roland JX-3P & JX-8P, Ensoniq SQ-80, Casio VZ-series and Korg M1, together with drum machines such as the LinnDrum, became part of the broader electronic sound palette that influenced spacesynth and related styles.

Progressive spacesynth takes these elements further by introducing more evolving arrangements, extended compositions, changing rhythms, layered synthesizer parts and atmospheric development. Instead of relying mainly on a repeating dance structure, progressive spacesynth can gradually build and transform throughout a track, creating a more cinematic and immersive listening experience.

The development of progressive spacesynth was also influenced by the demoscene, particularly the computer music and tracker culture that emerged around the late 1980s and 1990s. Demoscene musicians experimented with sequenced music, complex arrangements, evolving melodies, electronic sound design and the technical possibilities of computer sound hardware. These ideas helped push spacesynth towards longer, more progressive and experimental forms.

At its heart, spacesynth is melodic, electronic and futuristic music driven by synthesizers, rhythm, technology and imagination.