Analog Truths and Social Commentary from Salzburg's Veteran Duo Thirteen's "Rude Boys"
Returning with their impressive new single "Rude Boys" is the Austrian duo Thirteen, comprised of lifelong collaborators, Mike Fink and Paul Hochrainer. Their latest offering is filled with warm analog tones and vintage charm, offering listeners an anthem rich with social awareness. Hailing from Salzburg, Thirteen has been making music together since the late 1980s, and their seasoned craftsmanship is richly displayed throughout this song.
"Rude Boys" is a musical and moral statement recycling, in their words, "a little judgment with nothing personal" about society's decrease in respect and empathy in everyday life. While not overtly political, Fink and Hochrainer create a mirror of the times, discerning how civility has been replaced with arrogance and division. The sentiments are both immediate and recognizable; what really sticks is how the song develops lyrics that combine astute observation with a glimmer of optimism.
The duo embraces their roots by appealing to sounds steeped in retro synth-pop sensibilities, but excavating from modern rock influences. Their sound choices, along with the particular production technique, truly separate the song from the herd as they are tapping only real analog synthesizers for all the keyboard textures. The choice to use all synthesizers for the keyboard layers adds hip authenticity, grit, and warmth that lingers throughout the production. The tank-like movement creates a response that is gratifyingly human from the small imperfections in the textures of analog.
With "Rude Boys," Thirteen demonstrates that experience and sincerity still matter in today's digital age. It's a grooving, questioning song, and by the end of it, you're reminded of the simple power there is in respect.
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