Back catalogue: Coldwave/Synth

Review: Cetu Javu's iconic track 'Por Que?' (which as you probably can work out translates as why?) returns on a lovely grey marbled vinyl 12" courtesy of Blanco Y Negro Spain. A timeless classic from the late 80s and early 90s synth-pop and electronic scene, this single captures the band's signature blend of infectious melodies and emotive Spanish vocals. It's a fiery sound that is packed with melancholic undertones and driving rhythms that mean it has remained a dancefloor favourite for fans of vintage electronic sounds. This special edition offers a pristine homage to the era that takes you back in an instant.

Review: Cetu Javu's 'Dame Tu Mano' is something of a classic for lovers of early synth sounds and now it is back and reissued on grey marbled vinyl. Known for their blend of synthpop and Latin-inspired melodies, this track captures Cetu Javu's signature emotive style and irresistible sense of analogue rhythm. Originally a hit in the late 80s and early 90s, this fine single is a staple for fans of 80s beats and its great vocals also bring plenty of old-school vibes.

Review: Cetu Javu's 'Por Que?' gets a fresh release on vinyl from Blanco Y Negro and it's a proper nod to classic dance nostalgia. Side 1 kicks off with the extended mix of 'Por Que?,' a melodic, synth-heavy track packed with infectious grooves, followed by 'Don't Leave Me,' which keeps the energy high with its pulsating basslines and emotive vocals. Side 2 brings a remix of 'Por Que?' that adds a modern twist, alongside the original album version, perfect for fans craving that irresistible late 80s/early 90s dance vibe.

Review: Soanish mega-label Blanco Y Negro continues to reissue rather good, but frequently overlooked, gems from its vast archives. This one, from German-Spanish synth-pop band Cetu Javu, dates from 1992 and sees the combo combine their early Depeche Mode-esque vocals and synth sounds with nods to the more driving, peak-time ready sounds of European house music. That's best exemplified by the opening 'Remix' version of title track 'Dame Tu Mano', which also comes in the moody synth-pop style 'Extended Mix'. Over on the flip, we get the chiming melodies, mid-80s Pet Shop Boys grooves and Euro-dance bleeps of 'Una Mujer (remix)' and the Bobby Orlando-meets-Shep Pettibone fun of 'Tempo (remix)'.

Review: An EP that takes you through elevated 80s-inspired coldwave and synth soundscapes, matching nostalgia with modern production and featuring a seamless fusion of proto-techno, EBM and synth-pop. Side-1 opens with Deborah Sasson & MCL's 'Danger In Her Eyes' (Curses Revamp), a thrilling reimagination of new beat and synth-pop. The addition of vocal samples elevates its vintage essence, delivering a futuristic gem that's both haunting and danceable. Next, Andi's rework of 'Philadelphia Five's Not Leaving Without Jerry' injects energy with its uptempo groove, merging EBM rhythms with a dash of disco flair for an infectious, club-ready cut. Side-2 starts with 'House Fatale' (Curses Revamp) by JWB Hits The Beat, an ode to late 80s synth-pop akin to My Life with the Thrill Kill Kult. Chopped vocals and melodic synths create a hypnotic, era-defining vibe. Finally, Stockholm Syndrome AU's revamp of 'Voyou's Houseman' leans into heavier industrial and EBM tones, blending them for a powerful conclusion. This collection is a great example in reviving and reinventing vintage sounds, offering a fresh perspective on timeless styles.