The resurgence of 80s nostalgia has been undeniable in recent years, particularly in the music industry where artists have been blending retro sounds with modern influences.

But few have captured this zeitgeist as effectively as Deco, a UK-based synth-pop band known for their inventive mashups. The band’s unique twist is transforming well-known songs from the 90s and 00s by performing them in an 80s-inspired style, often making these tracks feel as though they’ve been pulled straight out of the neon-lit, synth-heavy era of music.

Deco: The Rise of Viral 80s Mashups

Deco first captured public attention in the digital space, where they gained notoriety for their viral mashups. Think of Wonderwall by Oasis, but instead of the usual Britpop flair, imagine it sung with the melancholic synths and driving beats that could easily be found in a Bronski Beat or A-ha track. This nostalgic reimagining of classic songs has garnered Deco a loyal following online, appealing to a wide range of listeners, including both those who fondly remember the 80s and younger audiences discovering these sounds for the first time.

Blending Eras: Why Deco's Sound Works

What makes Deco’s approach particularly engaging is their ability to walk a fine line between authenticity and reinvention. Synth-pop has always been characterized by its fusion of electronic sounds, moody undertones, and infectious melodies. Deco brings these elements to the forefront in their reinterpretations, emphasising the emotional intensity of 90s and 00s hits while dressing them up in the lush textures and synthetic soundscapes that defined 80s music.

The 80s were a time of musical experimentation, where analogue synthesizers and drum machines played a pivotal role in shaping the era’s sound. Bands like The Human League, Duran Duran, and Depeche Mode created atmospheric, electronic-driven songs that continue to influence today’s music scene. Deco’s decision to blend this sonic palette with more modern tracks highlights the timelessness of the 80s sound, showing how versatile these retro vibes can be when applied to different genres.

From Viral Fame to Original Work: Destination: I Don’t Know

Deco's viral moments weren't just flashes in the pan. After building a dedicated fan base through their inventive covers, they took the next step by releasing their debut album on pre-order, Destination: I Don’t Know. This is a collection of original songs which will showcase the band’s creativity beyond their mashup notoriety, solidifying them as artists in their own right, rather than simply a mash-up novelty act. Featuring the singles ‘Want Me’, ‘Forever’ and ‘Photograph’, we can only imagine it’s laden with tons more Eighties synth-pop influences the group clearly enjoys listening to.

What stands out about Deco’s original work is how they manage to capture the emotional intensity and glossy production values of 80s synth-pop while avoiding the pitfalls of mere imitation. Their songs resonate emotionally, with lyrics that speak to the uncertainty and complexities of modern life, but delivered with a melodic and synthetic warmth that feels like a throwback to the days of cassette tapes and mixtapes.

The Appeal of Nostalgia

There’s no denying the power of nostalgia in today’s music landscape, but Deco’s success isn’t just about tapping into that longing for the past. It’s about recognizing the enduring appeal of the 80s sound and showing how it can be repurposed to give new life to more recent hits. The band’s covers aren’t simple remakes—they’re reinterpretations that highlight the emotional core of the original songs in ways that feel both familiar and fresh.

In many ways, Deco's work reflects a broader trend in popular culture where artists, filmmakers, and musicians are looking back to move forward. From the resurgence of vinyl records to the retro aesthetics of shows like Stranger Things, there’s a clear appetite for cultural elements of the past. Deco taps into this trend but does so with a sense of innovation, proving that the past isn’t something to be repeated, but rather something to be reimagined.

What’s Next for Deco?

Looking ahead, Deco seems poised to continue evolving their sound. While their mashups have brought them viral fame, it’s their original work that has the potential to sustain a long-lasting career. The band’s ability to draw from the past without being confined by it suggests they have plenty of creative directions left to explore.

There’s also the possibility of expanding their mashup concept even further, perhaps taking on other decades or even blending genres that have yet to be fully explored through the 80s lens. For now, fans can enjoy the blend of nostalgia and originality that Deco has so expertly crafted, as the band continues to bring the sounds of the 80s to the forefront of the modern music scene.

In an industry where trends are constantly shifting, Deco’s combination of nostalgia, creativity, and innovation sets them apart. Their unique ability to reimagine 90s and 00s hits with an 80s twist has captured the attention of listeners around the world, and as they continue to create original music, their future looks brighter than ever.

Their album is out now!

They play Rough Trade Notts on the 23rd Sept and a load more across the UK. Check them out.