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A Chillwave Retrospective

A list by paddlesteamer

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Feel It All Around
According to legend, Chillwave came into being during the so-called 'Summer of Chillwave'- elsewhere known as the Summer of 2009. By 2010 there was considerable music media buzz, though some of its so-called creators questioned whether such a genre even existed. Nonetheless, a loose consensus about the elements of 'Chillwave' soon emerged. Chillwave was said to combine vintage synth sounds, reverb-drenched vocals, synthetic drumbeats and a dreamy or summery feel. It was described as simultaneously warm and downbeat, nostalgic and melancholic. Despite the hype, this micro-genre was not very commercially successful: only Washed Out and Neon Indian made serious inroads into the Billboard Hot 100 albums chart. By 2013, the sound had largely been abandoned in favour of other forms of synth pop. Still, it was arguably one of the most interesting micro-genres of the 2009-2012 period. [This list has now been expanded to include Brothertiger, Tropics, Mathemagic and Painted Palms, all of which are lesser-known Chillwave artists.]
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1Music Has the Right to Children

1.Boards of Canada

Music Has the Right to Children (1998)


Though this album predates the start of the Chillwave movement by around a decade, its influence on the genre, both directly and indirectly, has been massive. In creating a sound which was both retro and futuristic at the same time, Boards of Canada were forerunners of the Chillwave aesthetic. Add this one to the Chillwave Hall of Fame in the "early influence" category.
Though this album predates the start of the Chillwave movement by around a decade, its influence on the genre, both directly and indirectly, has been massive. In creating a sound which was both retro and futuristic at the same time, Boards of Canada were forerunners of the Chillwave aesthetic. Add this one to the Chillwave Hall of Fame in the "early influence" category.
2The Doldrums

2.Ariel Pink's Haunted Graffiti

The Doldrums (2004)


Ariel Pink's Haunted Graffiti is regarded as a major early influence on the Chillwave micro-genre for a number of reasons. Firstly, Ariel Pink's music used muffled and indistinct vocals- something which can also be said of Chillwave. In addition, Pink pioneered a 'bedroom recording studio' sound which was taken up by Washed Out and Toro Y Moi. Finally, some of the songs on "The Doldrums" have a dreamy or hypnagogic quality, as if the singer were half-asleep. Chillwave is sometimes regarded as a sub-genre of hypnagogic pop.
Ariel Pink's Haunted Graffiti is regarded as a major early influence on the Chillwave micro-genre for a number of reasons. Firstly, Ariel Pink's music used muffled and indistinct vocals- something which can also be said of Chillwave. In addition, Pink pioneered a 'bedroom recording studio' sound which was taken up by Washed Out and Toro Y Moi. Finally, some of the songs on "The Doldrums" have a dreamy or hypnagogic quality, as if the singer were half-asleep. Chillwave is sometimes regarded as a sub-genre of hypnagogic pop.
3Person Pitch

3.Panda Bear

Person Pitch (2007)


Panda Bear's "Person Pitch" is not a Chillwave album, but its nostalgic, washed-out sound has been cited as influential by a number of important Chillwave acts, so it earns a place here in the 'early influence' category. With its dreamy, trance-like quality and use of simple but haunting melodies, this record could be regarded as the spiritual godfather of the whole Chillwave movement.
Panda Bear's "Person Pitch" is not a Chillwave album, but its nostalgic, washed-out sound has been cited as influential by a number of important Chillwave acts, so it earns a place here in the 'early influence' category. With its dreamy, trance-like quality and use of simple but haunting melodies, this record could be regarded as the spiritual godfather of the whole Chillwave movement.
4My Touch

4.Toro y Moi

My Touch (2009)


Chazwick Bundick graduated from the University of South Carolina in spring of 2009 with a bachelor's degree in graphic design. Late in his school career, Bundick (Toro y Moi) had already formed a close musical relationship with fellow Chillwave artist Ernest Greene, who was soon to become famous under the recording name of Washed Out. On this demo tape from 2009 you can find him experimenting with vintage synths and reverb-drenched vocals, the building blocks of Chillwave.
Chazwick Bundick graduated from the University of South Carolina in spring of 2009 with a bachelor's degree in graphic design. Late in his school career, Bundick (Toro y Moi) had already formed a close musical relationship with fellow Chillwave artist Ernest Greene, who was soon to become famous under the recording name of Washed Out. On this demo tape from 2009 you can find him experimenting with vintage synths and reverb-drenched vocals, the building blocks of Chillwave.
5High Times

5.Washed Out

High Times (2009) [EP]


It has sometimes been suggested that Chillwave artists deliberately recreate the warped sound of cassettes which have been played too many times. After all, the Millennial artists who created this genre more often grew up listening to cassettes than vinyl. This cassette-only release (available only from Washed Out's official website) seemed to tip its hat in homage to this tradition. Highlights include the opener "Belong" and "Olivia", which is founded on off-kilter 80s synths and drum beats. This was Washed Out's first EP.
It has sometimes been suggested that Chillwave artists deliberately recreate the warped sound of cassettes which have been played too many times. After all, the Millennial artists who created this genre more often grew up listening to cassettes than vinyl. This cassette-only release (available only from Washed Out's official website) seemed to tip its hat in homage to this tradition. Highlights include the opener "Belong" and "Olivia", which is founded on off-kilter 80s synths and drum beats. This was Washed Out's first EP.
6Life of Leisure

6.Washed Out

Life of Leisure (2009) [EP]


In 2009, Ernest Greene was an unemployed Millennial, then 27 years old, who had just moved back home to his parents in South Carolina. He used his period of unemployment to record the "Life of Leisure" EP at home, an EP based on samples of obscure early 80s pop with woozy, 'washed out' vocals added to the mix. If the album cover evoked a beautiful Summer's afternoon, the production suggested it was just the memory of a past time, giving the whole thing a melancholic edge. This was one of the landmarks of the entire genre, with "Feel It All Around" emerging as the defining track of Chillwave.
In 2009, Ernest Greene was an unemployed Millennial, then 27 years old, who had just moved back home to his parents in South Carolina. He used his period of unemployment to record the "Life of Leisure" EP at home, an EP based on samples of obscure early 80s pop with woozy, 'washed out' vocals added to the mix. If the album cover evoked a beautiful Summer's afternoon, the production suggested it was just the memory of a past time, giving the whole thing a melancholic edge. This was one of the landmarks of the entire genre, with "Feel It All Around" emerging as the defining track of Chillwave.
7Feel It All Around

7.Washed Out

Feel It All Around (2009) [Single]


"Feel It All Around" was the centrepiece of Washed Out's "Life of Leisure" EP; it also appeared as a single in its own right. This is perhaps the most celebrated track of the entire Chillwave genre and rightly so. Its droning vocals, slow beat and faded or 'washed out' sound make it sound like a dreamy, glimmering Summer day, or perhaps the memory of one: the word 'nostalgic' gets bandied around a lot in reviews of this song. Its amorphous, hazy non-specificity is what makes it so universal.
"Feel It All Around" was the centrepiece of Washed Out's "Life of Leisure" EP; it also appeared as a single in its own right. This is perhaps the most celebrated track of the entire Chillwave genre and rightly so. Its droning vocals, slow beat and faded or 'washed out' sound make it sound like a dreamy, glimmering Summer day, or perhaps the memory of one: the word 'nostalgic' gets bandied around a lot in reviews of this song. Its amorphous, hazy non-specificity is what makes it so universal.
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8Despicable Dogs / Kings of Animals

8.Small Black

Despicable Dogs / Kings of Animals (2009) [Single]


The self-released "Despicable Dogs" announced the arrival of Small Black. It has a bittersweet sound, both yearning and melancholic. In many respects, it sounds like Cut Copy, however they had added a certain lo-fi haziness which nudges it into the Chillwave camp. It has sometimes been argued Chillwave was not a true genre because it had no associated scene. Yet the fact that Washed Out remixed this argues in the opposite direction. It may be truer to say that Chillwave as one of the first genres whose scene was largely 'online'.
The self-released "Despicable Dogs" announced the arrival of Small Black. It has a bittersweet sound, both yearning and melancholic. In many respects, it sounds like Cut Copy, however they had added a certain lo-fi haziness which nudges it into the Chillwave camp. It has sometimes been argued Chillwave was not a true genre because it had no associated scene. Yet the fact that Washed Out remixed this argues in the opposite direction. It may be truer to say that Chillwave as one of the first genres whose scene was largely 'online'.
9Psychic Chasms

9.Neon Indian

Psychic Chasms (2009)


This album reached #11 on the US dance albums chart, making it one of the more successful releases of the Chillwave genre. It is also one of the very best, featuring a whole host of memorable tunes such as "Deadbeat Summer", "Mind, Drips", "Should Have Taken Acid with You" and "Ephmeral Artery". The album features many common Chillwave features such as 80s synths, soft drums, a faux lo-fi sound and a general sense of haziness. However, what really makes this one stand out is the impressive pop smarts and hooks.
This album reached #11 on the US dance albums chart, making it one of the more successful releases of the Chillwave genre. It is also one of the very best, featuring a whole host of memorable tunes such as "Deadbeat Summer", "Mind, Drips", "Should Have Taken Acid with You" and "Ephmeral Artery". The album features many common Chillwave features such as 80s synths, soft drums, a faux lo-fi sound and a general sense of haziness. However, what really makes this one stand out is the impressive pop smarts and hooks.
10Seek Magic

10.Memory Tapes

Seek Magic (2009)


Memory Tapes was initially associated with the chillwave music genre, but is now seen as a more wide-ranging indietronica group. Like other artists from this period, Seek Magic used a lot of dance rhythms and sounds and had 1980s touchstones such as New Order and Cocteau Twins. Creative leader Dayve Hawke plays everything on this record and also incorporated found sounds such as a bicycle pump on the track "Bicycle" and the sound of sneakers on a basketball court on "Green Knight".
Memory Tapes was initially associated with the chillwave music genre, but is now seen as a more wide-ranging indietronica group. Like other artists from this period, Seek Magic used a lot of dance rhythms and sounds and had 1980s touchstones such as New Order and Cocteau Twins. Creative leader Dayve Hawke plays everything on this record and also incorporated found sounds such as a bicycle pump on the track "Bicycle" and the sound of sneakers on a basketball court on "Green Knight".
11New Chain

11.Small Black

New Chain (2010)


One reviewer likened the songs on this album to "the dream sequences to 80s films which were never made". In other words, this album ticks a lot of Chillwave boxes: simple, naive melodies; soft, fuzzy production; the use of retro-sounding synth motifs, and an emphasis on synthetic beats. This does not enter the first rank of Chillwave albums, but you might want to add "Photojournalist" or "Goons" to a playlist.
One reviewer likened the songs on this album to "the dream sequences to 80s films which were never made". In other words, this album ticks a lot of Chillwave boxes: simple, naive melodies; soft, fuzzy production; the use of retro-sounding synth motifs, and an emphasis on synthetic beats. This does not enter the first rank of Chillwave albums, but you might want to add "Photojournalist" or "Goons" to a playlist.
12Blessa / 109

12.Toro y Moi

Blessa / 109 (2009) [Single]


The opening track and first single from his debut album, "Blessa" is a song about how people hide their hurt in relationships. It addresses emotional guardedness and the way we try to detach ourselves from our painful experiences. This is one of the Toro y Moi's tracks on which the haunting vocal loops show the influence of Panda Bear's "Person Pitch."
The opening track and first single from his debut album, "Blessa" is a song about how people hide their hurt in relationships. It addresses emotional guardedness and the way we try to detach ourselves from our painful experiences. This is one of the Toro y Moi's tracks on which the haunting vocal loops show the influence of Panda Bear's "Person Pitch."
13You and I

13.Washed Out

You and I (2010) [Single]


"You and I" was the first single from Washed Out's debut album "Within and Without". The album has often been categorized as make-out music, and this track is definitely about inter-personal intimacy. However, Ernest Greene of the band was said that it is more about a couple looking each other in the eyes than an exploration of sensual pleasure.
"You and I" was the first single from Washed Out's debut album "Within and Without". The album has often been categorized as make-out music, and this track is definitely about inter-personal intimacy. However, Ernest Greene of the band was said that it is more about a couple looking each other in the eyes than an exploration of sensual pleasure.
14Deadbeat Summer

14.Neon Indian

Deadbeat Summer (2010) [Single]


"Deadbeat Summer" features a sample from Todd Rundgren's "Izzat Love". Alan Palomo has described Rundgren as "the undisputed master of sentimental sappy sentimental pop songs, integrated with these bizarre and innovative modular synth sounds." "Deadbeat Summer" combines that modular synth riff with downbeat lyrics about a dry, barren wasteland of a Summer. The song seems to draws upon his experiences growing up in the small town of Denton, Texas.
"Deadbeat Summer" features a sample from Todd Rundgren's "Izzat Love". Alan Palomo has described Rundgren as "the undisputed master of sentimental sappy sentimental pop songs, integrated with these bizarre and innovative modular synth sounds." "Deadbeat Summer" combines that modular synth riff with downbeat lyrics about a dry, barren wasteland of a Summer. The song seems to draws upon his experiences growing up in the small town of Denton, Texas.
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15Summer Heart

15.Blackbird Blackbird

Summer Heart (2010)


Blackbird Blackbird's debut album "Summer Heart" appeared in 2010, quickly being labelled part of the nascent Chillwave movement. Typically for this genre, this album has lots of summer and beach references. It also has a 'washed out' sound to the vocals, in a way which reminds some listeners of shoegaze. It also makes heavy use of 80s synth sounds, though perhaps with more emphasis on the bass than usual. This album appeals to existing Chillwave fans but probably makes few new converts.
Blackbird Blackbird's debut album "Summer Heart" appeared in 2010, quickly being labelled part of the nascent Chillwave movement. Typically for this genre, this album has lots of summer and beach references. It also has a 'washed out' sound to the vocals, in a way which reminds some listeners of shoegaze. It also makes heavy use of 80s synth sounds, though perhaps with more emphasis on the bass than usual. This album appeals to existing Chillwave fans but probably makes few new converts.
16Causers of This

16.Toro y Moi

Causers of This (2010)


Toro y Moi is usually mentioned as being at the forefront of the Chillwave movement. His sound is distinguished from other artists in the sub-genre by more of an 80s R&B sound, with occasional use of synth-funk techniques as well. Like Washed Out and Neon Indian, he uses vintage keyboards and an eroded sound, but he pays more attention to beats. Highlights include the layered "Fax Shadow" and the catchy "You Hid".
Toro y Moi is usually mentioned as being at the forefront of the Chillwave movement. His sound is distinguished from other artists in the sub-genre by more of an 80s R&B sound, with occasional use of synth-funk techniques as well. Like Washed Out and Neon Indian, he uses vintage keyboards and an eroded sound, but he pays more attention to beats. Highlights include the layered "Fax Shadow" and the catchy "You Hid".
17Cyanide Sisters

17.Com Truise

Cyanide Sisters (2010) [EP]


Com Truise is often regarded as a second-rank Chillwave act, often mentioned in surveys of the genre but seldom with the same reverence as Neon Indian or Washed Out. Yet they did have their moments and the "Cyanide Sisters" finds them near the top of their game. The retro-electronica of "Sundriped" is regarded by some as superlative Chillwave and "Slow Peels", another slow instrumental, is similarly lush and evocative. Overall, however, this band suffers for a lack of tunes.
Com Truise is often regarded as a second-rank Chillwave act, often mentioned in surveys of the genre but seldom with the same reverence as Neon Indian or Washed Out. Yet they did have their moments and the "Cyanide Sisters" finds them near the top of their game. The retro-electronica of "Sundriped" is regarded by some as superlative Chillwave and "Slow Peels", another slow instrumental, is similarly lush and evocative. Overall, however, this band suffers for a lack of tunes.
18Mathemagic EP

18.Mathemagic

Mathemagic EP (2010) [EP]


Canadian-based Mathemagic are brothers Evan and Dylan Euteneier. Their sounds encompass soft, liquid-sounding keyboards and vaporous vocals, creating gentle soundscapes which evoke a sense of wonder and innocence. On tracks like "Beach Days" and "Breaststroke" they consciously play with the summery, beachside references which quickly became part of the Chillwave genre. Perhaps they could be described as Chillwave with dream pop nuances.
Canadian-based Mathemagic are brothers Evan and Dylan Euteneier. Their sounds encompass soft, liquid-sounding keyboards and vaporous vocals, creating gentle soundscapes which evoke a sense of wonder and innocence. On tracks like "Beach Days" and "Breaststroke" they consciously play with the summery, beachside references which quickly became part of the Chillwave genre. Perhaps they could be described as Chillwave with dream pop nuances.
19Emerald Fantasy Tracks

19.Lone

Emerald Fantasy Tracks (2010) [EP]


While British dance music producer Lone is definitely not a Chillwave artist on most of his releases- his thing is more house, IDM or breakbeat- some of the tracks on "Emerald Fantasy Tracks" seem to be an exception. The instrumental "The Birds Don't Fly This High", is an atmospheric, melancholic track which has often been included on Chillwave mixtapes and compilations. "Aquamarine" and "Ultramarine" with their beach references can also be counted as showing Chillwave influence.
While British dance music producer Lone is definitely not a Chillwave artist on most of his releases- his thing is more house, IDM or breakbeat- some of the tracks on "Emerald Fantasy Tracks" seem to be an exception. The instrumental "The Birds Don't Fly This High", is an atmospheric, melancholic track which has often been included on Chillwave mixtapes and compilations. "Aquamarine" and "Ultramarine" with their beach references can also be counted as showing Chillwave influence.
20Wind at My Back

20.Brothertiger

Wind at My Back (2010) [Single]


According to Pitchfork, "Athens, Ohio, resident John Jagos makes fuzzy yet warm synth-based under the moniker of Brothertiger." He is not a Chillwave artist who often appears on compilations, but his 80s-inspired sound appeals to some fans of the genre.
According to Pitchfork, "Athens, Ohio, resident John Jagos makes fuzzy yet warm synth-based under the moniker of Brothertiger." He is not a Chillwave artist who often appears on compilations, but his 80s-inspired sound appeals to some fans of the genre.
21Soft Vision E.P.

21.Tropics

Soft Vision E.P. (2010) [EP]


Like many other Chillwave artists, Tropics have a sort of bedroom aesthetic in everything is dreamy, soft and lo-fi. The highlight here is "Give It Up", which combines happy sounding vocals with moody, melancholic production. It shows more influence from dance music than most songs within the genre.
Like many other Chillwave artists, Tropics have a sort of bedroom aesthetic in everything is dreamy, soft and lo-fi. The highlight here is "Give It Up", which combines happy sounding vocals with moody, melancholic production. It shows more influence from dance music than most songs within the genre.
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22The Haste

22.Casa del Mirto

The Haste (2010) [Single]


Casa del Mirto are an Italian Chillwave /synthpop outfit whose best-known offering is "The Haste" from 2010.
Casa del Mirto are an Italian Chillwave /synthpop outfit whose best-known offering is "The Haste" from 2010.
23Vision Tunnels

23.Brothertiger

Vision Tunnels (2010) [EP]


Brothertiger remain a somewhat obscure Chillwave act but for people who want to explorethe genre beyond Washed Out and Toro Y Moi, their retro, summery-sounding synth pop may fit the bill. The best offering on this EP is the title track.
Brothertiger remain a somewhat obscure Chillwave act but for people who want to explorethe genre beyond Washed Out and Toro Y Moi, their retro, summery-sounding synth pop may fit the bill. The best offering on this EP is the title track.
24Era extraña

24.Neon Indian

Era extraña (2011)


The sophomore Neon Indian album "Era Extraña" was the least well-received of the bands releases critically, with some critics regretting that it lacked the quirky charm of "Psychic Chasms". It is definitely darker at times, with the vocals sometimes bringing to mind Jesus and Mary Chain and occasional homages to shoegaze in the production. But the single "Polish Girl" is appealing pop, the chorus to "Halogen (I Could Be a Shadow)" is ecstatic and "Future Sick" is very effective and concise. The album reached #74 on the Billboard Hot 100 albums chart.
The sophomore Neon Indian album "Era Extraña" was the least well-received of the bands releases critically, with some critics regretting that it lacked the quirky charm of "Psychic Chasms". It is definitely darker at times, with the vocals sometimes bringing to mind Jesus and Mary Chain and occasional homages to shoegaze in the production. But the single "Polish Girl" is appealing pop, the chorus to "Halogen (I Could Be a Shadow)" is ecstatic and "Future Sick" is very effective and concise. The album reached #74 on the Billboard Hot 100 albums chart.
25Dive

25.Tycho

Dive (2011)


While Tycho rarely makes it onto Chillwave compilations, more than a few critics have commented that the sound of "Dive" reminds them of Washed Out and Toro Y Moi. One reviewer described this is "downbeat Chillwave-influenced electronica." Its gentle beats and liquid synths share many similarities with the Chillwave sound, not least the soft, out-focus synths which pay reverence to the hypnagogic pop genre. The title track "A Walk" is a stand-out.
While Tycho rarely makes it onto Chillwave compilations, more than a few critics have commented that the sound of "Dive" reminds them of Washed Out and Toro Y Moi. One reviewer described this is "downbeat Chillwave-influenced electronica." Its gentle beats and liquid synths share many similarities with the Chillwave sound, not least the soft, out-focus synths which pay reverence to the hypnagogic pop genre. The title track "A Walk" is a stand-out.
26Parodia Flare

26.Tropics

Parodia Flare (2011)


UK artist Tropic's debut album "Parodia Flare" offered a mix of fluid keyboards and atmospheric vocals, which marked it out as a typical Chillwave release. The most unusual element is the widespread use of guitars in the mix, which prevents this becoming mere relaxation music.
UK artist Tropic's debut album "Parodia Flare" offered a mix of fluid keyboards and atmospheric vocals, which marked it out as a typical Chillwave release. The most unusual element is the widespread use of guitars in the mix, which prevents this becoming mere relaxation music.
27Belong / Phone Call

27.Washed Out

Belong / Phone Call (2011) [Single]


This single consists of who tracks which both appeared on Washed Out's seminal early Chillwave EP, "High Times". It is difficult to know why were chosen for single release two years later. Having said that, the single does serve as a good introduction to the Chillwave sound, as "Belong", in particular, offers the reverb-drenched vocals for which the genre is known. The song's theme is a call not to live hidden behind the masks of social personae.
This single consists of who tracks which both appeared on Washed Out's seminal early Chillwave EP, "High Times". It is difficult to know why were chosen for single release two years later. Having said that, the single does serve as a good introduction to the Chillwave sound, as "Belong", in particular, offers the reverb-drenched vocals for which the genre is known. The song's theme is a call not to live hidden behind the masks of social personae.
28Within and Without

28.Washed Out

Within and Without (2011)


"Within and Without" has sometimes been described as 'bedroom synth pop' and there is a certain erotic dreaminess to some of the tracks. However, despite the warm, romantic vibe, this is not just a record about 'eros', it is also about the personal struggle for transcendence. It does this by using some familiar elements: 1980s synths, drum machines, programmed beats and airy "I'm Not in Love" vocals. However, Washed Out out brings them together in interesting ways. This is certainly one of the best full-length discs of the genre. Highlights include "Before", "Amor Fati" and "Far Away".
"Within and Without" has sometimes been described as 'bedroom synth pop' and there is a certain erotic dreaminess to some of the tracks. However, despite the warm, romantic vibe, this is not just a record about 'eros', it is also about the personal struggle for transcendence. It does this by using some familiar elements: 1980s synths, drum machines, programmed beats and airy "I'm Not in Love" vocals. However, Washed Out out brings them together in interesting ways. This is certainly one of the best full-length discs of the genre. Highlights include "Before", "Amor Fati" and "Far Away".
29Galactic Melt

29.Com Truise

Galactic Melt (2011)


Com Truise's debut album "Galactic Melt" displays their fetish for 80s technology, not only in the use of retro synths, drum machines and synth-funk basslines but even in the song titles (one of which references VHS) and the cover art (a fairly blatant Joy Division homage). Seth Haley himself does not use the term Chillwave to describe his music, preferring, "mid-fi synth-wave, slow-motion funk". One wonders why that genre title didn't catch on. Com Truise are notable for the dominance of synths and the relatively scarcity of vocals in their work. Standout tracks include "VHS Sex" and "Glawio".
Com Truise's debut album "Galactic Melt" displays their fetish for 80s technology, not only in the use of retro synths, drum machines and synth-funk basslines but even in the song titles (one of which references VHS) and the cover art (a fairly blatant Joy Division homage). Seth Haley himself does not use the term Chillwave to describe his music, preferring, "mid-fi synth-wave, slow-motion funk". One wonders why that genre title didn't catch on. Com Truise are notable for the dominance of synths and the relatively scarcity of vocals in their work. Standout tracks include "VHS Sex" and "Glawio".
30Polish Girl

30.Neon Indian

Polish Girl (2011) [Single]


"Polish Girl", a single from Neon Indian's sophomore effort "Era Extraña", finds Alan Palomo reminiscing about a failed relationship, and a sad, wistful tone hangs over the song. In other words, this is a typical Chillwave track in that it combines a catchy synth pop hook with an air of melancholic regret.
"Polish Girl", a single from Neon Indian's sophomore effort "Era Extraña", finds Alan Palomo reminiscing about a failed relationship, and a sad, wistful tone hangs over the song. In other words, this is a typical Chillwave track in that it combines a catchy synth pop hook with an air of melancholic regret.
31Amor Fati

31.Washed Out

Amor Fati (2011) [Single]


It is often said that Washed Out's 2011 debut album "Within and Without" was erotic and amorous, and the cover art certainly encouraged the notion. However, the single "Amor Fati" is more philosophical than erotic. The Latin phrase refers to the idea that one must fall in love with one's fate, even if it includes suffering and loss. The song subtly references these ideas, as well as providing some outstanding synth pop textures.
It is often said that Washed Out's 2011 debut album "Within and Without" was erotic and amorous, and the cover art certainly encouraged the notion. However, the single "Amor Fati" is more philosophical than erotic. The Latin phrase refers to the idea that one must fall in love with one's fate, even if it includes suffering and loss. The song subtly references these ideas, as well as providing some outstanding synth pop textures.
32Underneath the Pine

32.Toro y Moi

Underneath the Pine (2011)


Unlike "Causers of This" which was created by sampling, "Underneath the Pine" was recorded in the studio with a range of instruments. Like its predecessor, the sound is soulful and funky and there is liberal use of his crooning falsetto throughout, but there is less reliance on vintage synths here, with greater prominence given to guitars, organs, piano runs and vocal harmonies. It was much better critically received than Toro y Moi's first full length disc.
Unlike "Causers of This" which was created by sampling, "Underneath the Pine" was recorded in the studio with a range of instruments. Like its predecessor, the sound is soulful and funky and there is liberal use of his crooning falsetto throughout, but there is less reliance on vintage synths here, with greater prominence given to guitars, organs, piano runs and vocal harmonies. It was much better critically received than Toro y Moi's first full length disc.
33Era extraña

33.Neon Indian

Era extraña (2011)


Neon Indian's second album "Era Extraña" remains one of few Chillwave albums ever to crack the Billboard Hot 100, peaking at #74. It is regarded as being more somber than the band's 2009 debut, yet still carrying the Chillwave banner. "Halogen (I Could Be a Shadow)" is one of my favorite songs of the whole genre.
Neon Indian's second album "Era Extraña" remains one of few Chillwave albums ever to crack the Billboard Hot 100, peaking at #74. It is regarded as being more somber than the band's 2009 debut, yet still carrying the Chillwave banner. "Halogen (I Could Be a Shadow)" is one of my favorite songs of the whole genre.
34Freaking Out

34.Toro y Moi

Freaking Out (2011) [EP]


This EP seems like a companion piece to Toro Y Moi's 2011 album "Underneath the Pine". The sound palette is similar, combining reverb-saturated vocals with guitars, keyboards and 80s synth-funk nuances. In this regard it could be seen as a transitional piece between the Chillwave sound and the later micro-genre of Future Funk.
This EP seems like a companion piece to Toro Y Moi's 2011 album "Underneath the Pine". The sound palette is similar, combining reverb-saturated vocals with guitars, keyboards and 80s synth-funk nuances. In this regard it could be seen as a transitional piece between the Chillwave sound and the later micro-genre of Future Funk.
35Lo Hi

35.Peaking Lights

Lo Hi (2012) [Single]


Peaking Lights are not normally classified as a Chillwave act, but considering the fine grades of stylistic difference between many allegedly discreet micro-genres, it is not surprising that songs do not always stay neatly pigeonholed. I have seen "Lo Hi" pop up on some Chillwave mix-tapes, and with its heavy use of reverb and generally shimmering sound, it is easy to see why.
Peaking Lights are not normally classified as a Chillwave act, but considering the fine grades of stylistic difference between many allegedly discreet micro-genres, it is not surprising that songs do not always stay neatly pigeonholed. I have seen "Lo Hi" pop up on some Chillwave mix-tapes, and with its heavy use of reverb and generally shimmering sound, it is easy to see why.
36Paracosm

36.Washed Out

Paracosm (2013)


"Paracosm", Washed Out's second album, gained mostly positive reviews. Nonetheless, it was often suggested that Chillwave was a sub-genre in decline: most of Washed Out's contemporaries had already moved on to other forms of synth-pop. Still, this album offers a rich palette of sounds and some of the tracks such as "All I Know", "Don't Give Up" and "Great Escape" stand with their best work. There is nothing ground-breaking here, but the album has a happier, more hopeful vibe than Washed Out's previous work, with less of the melancholia evident on the "Life of Leisure" EP, for instance. That's a progression of sorts.
"Paracosm", Washed Out's second album, gained mostly positive reviews. Nonetheless, it was often suggested that Chillwave was a sub-genre in decline: most of Washed Out's contemporaries had already moved on to other forms of synth-pop. Still, this album offers a rich palette of sounds and some of the tracks such as "All I Know", "Don't Give Up" and "Great Escape" stand with their best work. There is nothing ground-breaking here, but the album has a happier, more hopeful vibe than Washed Out's previous work, with less of the melancholia evident on the "Life of Leisure" EP, for instance. That's a progression of sorts.
37All I Know

37.Washed Out

All I Know (2013) [Single]


“All I Know” opens with a distant-sounding, keyboard drone and a tingling piano line, and then it suddenly opens up in a warm rush of acoustic guitars and synthetic drums. This track was a highlight from Washed Out's sophomore album, "Paracosm." However, no new singles have followed in the three years and counting since its release.
“All I Know” opens with a distant-sounding, keyboard drone and a tingling piano line, and then it suddenly opens up in a warm rush of acoustic guitars and synthetic drums. This track was a highlight from Washed Out's sophomore album, "Paracosm." However, no new singles have followed in the three years and counting since its release.
38Carousel

38.Painted Palms

Carousel (2013) [Single]


Painted Palms are a San Francisco-based neo-psychedelia duo who are often said to incorporate Chillwave sounds and textures into their music. Partly this is due to their love of Panda Bear and late Animal Collective, a stylistic influence which they share with many Chillwave acts. They also employ muted vocals and bright, glimmering soundscapes. However, their music strikes some listeners as not sufficiently original.
Painted Palms are a San Francisco-based neo-psychedelia duo who are often said to incorporate Chillwave sounds and textures into their music. Partly this is due to their love of Panda Bear and late Animal Collective, a stylistic influence which they share with many Chillwave acts. They also employ muted vocals and bright, glimmering soundscapes. However, their music strikes some listeners as not sufficiently original.
39Odyssey

39.HOME

Odyssey (2014)


By 2014 most music industry pundits were reporting that Chillwave was dead, but occasional albums from this genre continue to be made. HOME is perhaps the most interesting newer producer/artiss with an interest in Chillwave. The track "Resonance" from this album is a widely anthologized Chillwave instrumental using vintage synths and soft reverb, but the whole album shows the influence of Tom Cruise and Washed Out.
By 2014 most music industry pundits were reporting that Chillwave was dead, but occasional albums from this genre continue to be made. HOME is perhaps the most interesting newer producer/artiss with an interest in Chillwave. The track "Resonance" from this album is a widely anthologized Chillwave instrumental using vintage synths and soft reverb, but the whole album shows the influence of Tom Cruise and Washed Out.
40Before the Night

40.HOME

Before the Night (2014)


HOME released two albums in 2014 alone, making their claim to be the most active proponent of the Chillwave sound to have emerged after the 2009-2012 peak years. On a track like "Pyrix", they capture the dreamy, Summer-like sound of the best Chillwave instrumentals. However, it is worth noting that this album attracted much less attention than their debut.
HOME released two albums in 2014 alone, making their claim to be the most active proponent of the Chillwave sound to have emerged after the 2009-2012 peak years. On a track like "Pyrix", they capture the dreamy, Summer-like sound of the best Chillwave instrumentals. However, it is worth noting that this album attracted much less attention than their debut.
41Face Up

41.Washed Out

Face Up (2018) [Single]


In 2018, Washed Out returned with his third full-length album, "Mister Mellow." While it has incorporated some new elements, such as extensive sampling and Tantric influences, it is still basically a Chillwave album. This re-establishes Ernest Greene's credentials as the most devoted practitioner of the Chillwave sound in the history of the micro-genre.
In 2018, Washed Out returned with his third full-length album, "Mister Mellow." While it has incorporated some new elements, such as extensive sampling and Tantric influences, it is still basically a Chillwave album. This re-establishes Ernest Greene's credentials as the most devoted practitioner of the Chillwave sound in the history of the micro-genre.
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