Turn It Up (1989) is a captivating fusion of futurism and nostalgia, seamlessly blending the vibrant energy of ‘80s synth-pop with modern electronic beats and tropical rhythms. Right from the start, the song pulls us in with cerebral ad libs and a pulsating melody that sets the tone for an exhilarating journey through sound. The opening feels like a portal back to 1989, yet it’s infused with a freshness that keeps it rooted in today’s pop culture.
Manuel Lupen, who helms the project as the DJ, live percussionist, and vocalist, creates a dynamic experience that is hard to pin down to a single genre. The track’s optimistic lyrics, reflecting on the cultural significance of 1989, add a layer of timelessness to the futuristic sound. This fusion of nostalgia and forward-thinking energy is one of the most compelling aspects of the song. The expansive risers feel like they lift you off the ground, while the strummed guitar nuances bring a warmth that softens the sleek, modern edges of the production.
Manuel’s collaboration with producer Christian Castagno is particularly noteworthy, as the production is not just technically flawless but brimming with creative details. The sound design is rich and layered, constantly evolving and shifting in ways that keep you hypnotized. Each element—whether it’s the futuristic synths, the tropical percussion, or the guitar that harks back to the classic rock sounds of the late ’80s – feels perfectly placed, contributing to a soundscape that is as immersive as it is energetic.
There’s a palpable sense of joy in Turn It Up (1989), which is deeply tied to Manuel’s travels and life experiences. The serendipitous meeting with Christian in Minca, Colombia, adds an organic backstory to the track. The spontaneous collaboration in Christian’s studio gives the song an added layer of authenticity, especially during moments like the improvised percussion recorded during a power outage – moments of creativity born out of necessity, which ultimately enriched the track’s character.
The song’s ethos is simple yet profound: it’s about bringing people together, creating moments of celebration, and living fully in the moment. You can easily imagine this track lighting up a dance floor, but it’s just as suited for a long drive or a solo moment of joy. Manuel’s ability to blend retro ‘80s energy with contemporary beats and world music rhythms makes the track feel both familiar and fresh, an invitation to listeners of all backgrounds to embrace the music and the moment.
In performances, Turn It Up (1989) has been well-received at a variety of events, from music festivals to high-profile weddings and corporate gatherings. The energy of the song translates seamlessly to Manuel’s live sets, where he combines DJing, live percussion, and vocals to create a unique, multi-sensory experience. The song has also gained traction on radio and streaming platforms, with listeners praising its energetic and uplifting vibe.
Overall, Turn It Up (1989) is a triumph of sound design and creative collaboration. It’s a celebration of the past and present, brought to life by Manuel’s infectious energy and Christian’s production expertise. As Manuel puts it: “Turn It Up (1989) is more than just a track – it’s a celebration of the moments that make life unforgettable.” The opus is a perfect reminder that, sometimes, the best way to live is to turn up the music and enjoy the ride.
We have added Turn It Up (1989) to our New Music Spotlight playlist, as well as our TIMELESS playlist, whilst we continue to stream the wider discography of Manuel Lupen, including Motion, and Vision and Intuition.