A Classic Synthwave Single from Gremlyn

A new single release from Gremlyn delivers a vast and massively cinematic soundscape by bringing in vintage tonalities and a synth wave approach but keeping that expansive underbelly so that it stays spacious but still delivers an amazing sonic presence and drive.

"Knightfall" is an absolute banger, and it has an amazing way of building as well. You can tell there was a lot of attention to detail when it came down to the arrangement of this song.

The track begins with more spacious synth pads so that you start to get a feel for the melodic tonality of the track. This quickly starts building up into those classic '80s cinematic synth sounds that you know and love.

The way the song sways with intensity is amazing. It breathes and feels alive because of the way it is put together.

I absolutely adore those vintage synths because they help nail the aesthetic of the song which was clearly inspired by classic, old-school soundtracks and that aesthetic is 100% nailed.

Taking those classic tones and bringing them into a current platform by updating things just enough so that you know it's a refreshed version of the genre was brilliant as well.

The whole thing spoke to me as I grew up in the 80's. I loved watching '80s films of all genres but those sci-fi and horror flicks are the ones that really kept to those driving synth pads, outrun, and synthwave approaches.

This single hit its mark when it comes to that, especially.

The producer and songwriter is joined by Craig Carswell on vocals who pushes that theme even further by giving the song that classic vocal approach as well. They are powerful and add such a great texture to the song along with hooky melodies and impactful lyrics that really all aim towards that same theme.

When you have a cinematic synthwave track like this one, vocals can make or break it. Of course, with most bands that is the case.

I'm happy that Craig understood the mission here and rolled out these amazing vocals to go right along with the five and atmosphere of this track.

This was a lush single that hit a soundscape so well that it made me feel warm and fuzzy.

I am a VHS collector. I literally collect VHS tapes like nobody's business and as someone who has seen many '80s movies along with trailers for movies that probably were never even released, I can tell you right now this track hits the nail on the head when it comes to bringing out that vintage synthwave aesthetic.

The whole thing was brilliantly done and well thought out.

With the release of such a well-woven single, we wanted to have a sit down with Gremlyn to find out what drove him to make this track and what may be coming next.

Here's what went down.

Buzz Slayers: Hello Gremlyn! Thanks for taking some time with us! I wanted to start with Knight Fall! This new single is outstanding! It feels influenced by some classic synthwave and it has such an atmospheric approach! Where did this track come from?

This song features Craig Carswell, and he does an amazing job! How did that come about? Did you know him prior to this release?

First of all, thank YOU for listening and blogging about this release! I'm thrilled it's finally out! This track has been years in the making, not because of the writing, recording, or production time, but rather due to the artist's worst enemy: perfectionism. I knew this track was special, especially with Craig's vocals, so I kept tweaking, then un-tweaking, and tweaking again. Pro-tip: don't do that! Just #FinishYourMusic and release it!

Craig and I met virtually during the pandemic! A mutual friend and talented musician, Scott Bennett, hosted monthly 8-Hour Songwriting challenges online for local musicians. While "KnightFall" wasn't created during one of those challenges, the idea for it was born from that collaborative space. Craig admired my production, and I was blown away by his vocal talent, so a collaboration felt inevitable.

Buzz Slayers: The production blends electric approaches well! Can you give me some of your top musical influences?

I've been a musical "sponge" for years. I absorb albums, and what resonates with me sticks. I don't discriminate tonally, sonically, culturally, or even genre-wise. Each project I release carries different influences and touchstones from albums I love. For "Knight Fall," I drew inspiration from 80s sci-fi, with a modern "MCU"-style epic soundtrack feel.

Buzz Slayers: Your real name is Bryce Plante correct? As a producer and DJ, you go under Gremlyn! How did that come about?

Yeah, Bryce is my "adult" name. Gremlyn is like my "Clark Kent becomes Superman" persona when I'm DJing or releasing music. It's all still Bryce, though. Gremlyn started as a camp nickname in my teens. It was originally "Gremlin," but I changed the "i" to a "y" to match the "y" in my real name.

Buzz Slayers: It seems you've had your fingers in plenty of musical pots! Do you find being a DJ as fulfilling as producing tracks like this one?

Ultimately, it's always been about music and creativity for me. Whether I'm DJing for a packed room, a private event, or an intimate arcade set, the music is the driving force. I started DJing and learning music production around the age of 11, so they've always felt like two sides of the same coin. I don't think I could be "just a DJ" or "just a producer"—they're a symbiotic bond for me.

Buzz Slayers: What are you doing when you're not working on music?

I work a lot and create a lot of art. In my spare time, I love getting lost in good movies, TV series, or games. I'm sure other creatives can relate, but it's hard to find creative hobbies that truly "scratch that itch" without turning them into another hustle. I'm also really into digital art, photography, and developing my videography skills. Plus, I'm a big PC building nerd. I've been doing a lot of that lately.

Buzz Slayers: Now that this single is released, are you working on anything upcoming? If so, what can we expect from that?

Just you wait... Let's just say "Knight Fall" isn't the only release planned for this year, and it's definitely not the only synthwave one either... More to come!

Buzz Slayers: The song feels cinematic to me. Are you inspired by film at all?

Absolutely! While writing and crafting the textures, I imagined how a scene would look with this music and what story could be told alongside the song's theme. I'm not a film expert or a cinephile, but I love movies and being transported into their worlds. I wanted to transport listeners into the world I created with this song.

Buzz Slayers: Do you play other instruments as well as keys?

Mostly Piano, though I have picked up the guitar again after many years without it. Unless you consider finger drumming or turntablism as an instrument?

Buzz Slayers: Do you have a personal setup that you work with? What kind of software do you use to produce tracks like this?

I've got a pretty basic setup, though I love collecting gear. (RIP my wallet). FL Studio, Maschine/Native Instruments, Various soft synths, secret sauce, and a MIDI keyboard setup including my Dad's old Technics digital piano from the 80s. I've tried a multitude of DAWs, I'm convinced they all can do the same thing. They're just different canvases for the artist to decide which suits them best. FL Studio just feels like home to me.

Buzz Slayers: Before we head out, is there anything you'd like to say to followers and fans of the music?

Hey! I'm honored you're choosing to listen to our track. Thanks for your streams! I really hope you stick around for the ride, as I can't wait to share more stories, more music, and more moments with you all! - Bryce/Gremlyn

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