Synthwave Single Review: Astro Wars by SAZER
Astro Wars by SAZER is an arrangement of the theme from the Astro Wars video game. It showcases that classic VGM melody and arranges it in a solid synthwave style. Arpeggios rise and whirl out of emptiness, climbing and descending as a deep throbbing beat drives under them. The chip tune sound of the lead carries the iconic Astro Wars theme which is full of a feeling of victory and adventure.
The combination of deep bass rumble and the relentless beat propels this track forward. I enjoy how bright the synth is that plays the main melody and the way the arpeggios are used to infuse the whole track with a live wire energy as that catchy lead calls out and adds to flying feeling that infuses the track. The overall brightness of the synths does help to make the whole track shine. I think using a synthwave style to showcase classic video game melodies is a natural fit and I found myself imagining the stars rushing past in hyperdrive as I listened to the track.
Even though I’ve never played Astro Wars, SAZER still managed to activate a feeling of excitement for the general notion of war between some futuristic spaceships. Using that strong melody along with the propulsive synthwave sounds hammered home the idea of speeding through space in combat maneuvers. The atmosphere and sense of fun is great on this track and contributed to the positive retro vibes.
To conclude, SAZER has created a great re-imagining of a classic video game theme in a well-produced synthwave package that launches a great melody in a new and fun direction with Astro Wars.