I keep up with emerging and new independent artists, but I have another passion, the music of the 1980s—the sounds and pop culture that defined my teenage years. Moreover, the new wave and electronic music scene thrilled me then and still is the case today. At the time I immersed myself in ’80s music by buying records, listening to the radio, reading Smash Hits, and watching music videos. Although I missed many live shows back in the day, the wave of 40th-anniversary tours now gives me a chance to see my favourite bands. This year, I immensely enjoyed live performances from The Human League, OMD and Bananarama. However, since the anniversary tour/rerelease trend by 80s pop artists is far from over, I am certain there are plenty more opportunities ahead!
For instance, the Thompson Twins are a noteworthy band that deserves more recognition. Currently, they are celebrating the 40th anniversary of their iconic album “Into The Gap.” (Toured by Tom Bailey earlier this year). Similarly, which has also been re-mastered and is available in new packages. This album not only highlights their musical innovation but also produced several tracks that have become fan favourites. While their 1984 hit “Hold Me Now” is a significant part of their legacy, it’s a bit surprising that the Thompson Twins don’t receive the same level of attention as other pop acts from the 80s. Although, I do know that my colleague and friend, Raj Rudolph, the founder of EQ Music Blog, is a massive Thompson Twins fanboy to this day.
There is also an emerging indie alt-rock band, Your Favorite Color, from California that similarly draw inspiration from the 80s. The band have been on an Instagram followers drive. Achieving their goal of 10, 000 followers, they have dropped a surprise release for old and new fans alike. This being a cover of the aforementioned Thompson Twins’ track “Hold Me Now.”
They share. “‘Hold Me Now’ was a track we noticed hadn’t been covered many times before. We thought we’d take a crack at it”
Your Favorite Color had quite the challenge ahead of them. Before I immersed myself in their interpretation, my curiosity led me to explore various cover versions of “Hold Me Now“. Unfortunately, I wasn’t particularly impressed by what I discovered. However, when I listened to YFC’s rendition, it stood out as a remarkable tribute that not only showcased their pop/rock flair but also captured the essence of the 80s style better than any cover I encountered. Notably second only to the Thompson Twins’ original.
What’s even better is that Your Favorite Color completely transformed my doubts. Their 80s pop/rock reimagining of “Hold Me Now” is genuinely impressive.
Connect with Your Favorite Color
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yourfavoritecoloroffical/
X: https://x.com/yfctheband
Instagram: https://x.com/yfctheband
Connect with Thompson Twins
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThompsonTwinsTomBailey/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thompsontwinstombailey/