Interferencias Vol 1

Munster’s first volume of an extensive exploration into Spanish synth music from the 1980s showcases a wide range of styles, from mainstream techno-pop to more obscure experimental sounds. This collection of 20 tracks captures the rapid evolution of a vibrant music scene during the decade. Featuring artists like TodoTodo, Oviformia SCI, Última Emoción, WAQ, Justine, Séptimo Sello, Líneas Aéreas, MD, Lavabos Iturriaga, Vocoder, Metal y Ca, La Mode, Aviador Dro, Kalashnikov, Tomates Eléctricos, Metropakt, El Humano Mecano, Diseño Corbusier, Los Iniciados, and Bola/Banda Electrónica, this release also includes a comprehensive booklet with detailed liner notes by Sergio Sánchez (Jazznoize) and photos of the artists.

Pioneers in the scene, with unwavering determination, gave us glimpses of the future by pushing the boundaries of electronic music. They blended melody with rhythm in a danceable format, setting the stage for the rise of synth-pop. As the genre emerged, it was clear that electronic instruments were poised to challenge traditional rock music. Spain’s democratic transition had opened new artistic avenues, allowing synth-pop to flourish in urban centers across the country. This movement was one of the few authentically Spanish labels we could proudly claim: tecno pop. The Iberian take on the minimal synth sound, popular in the late '70s and early '80s, spanned various subgenres, from the dark and minimalist to the almost cybernetic. Initially, these sounds mirrored those from Europe, Japan, and the United States, with influential records by Cabaret Voltaire, Japan, Heaven 17, Brian Eno, Depeche Mode, Human League, Soft Cell, DAF, New Order, The Residents, Ultravox, and Devo being highly regarded. However, the influence of film, poetry, and fashion was also evident in the songs of the rising groups. Many of these artists began in the underground, circulating demo tapes without releasing official records, often overlooked by record companies who failed to grasp the emerging trend. Nonetheless, it wasn’t long before this rich vein of creativity was mined, with even bands that had only performed a few times getting signed.