Haute & Freddy Lead Guardian’s Weekly Music Recommendations with 80s Synth-Pop Revival Single

The Guardian’s latest ‘Add to Playlist’ feature spotlights emerging LA-based pop duo Haute & Freddy, comprised of songwriters Michelle Buzz and Lance Shipp, who have previously co-written hits for artists like Katy Perry, Kylie Minogue, Britney Spears, and Calvin Harris. Known for their extravagant, maximalist approach, the duo blends dramatic 1980s synth-pop influences—drawing from acts like Erasure, Pet Shop Boys, and Bronski Beat—with theatrical visuals inspired by Regency-era aesthetics and modern TikTok energy. Their new single ‘Dance the Pain Away’ is praised as a standout sad-pop banger that combines soaring crescendos, thunderous drums, orchestral hits, and emotionally charged lyrics, effectively cutting through early-year gloom and inviting listeners to the dancefloor. The article highlights how their seven singles so far pay homage to mid-80s British pop without copying it directly, and notes similarities to Chappell Roan’s style while emphasizing the authenticity of their thrilling sound and saucy dress-up visuals. Their debut album, Big Disgrace, is scheduled for release on March 13. The piece also curates other notable new tracks from the week, including Wendy Eisenberg’s countrified experimental piece ‘Meaning Business,’ Remember Sports’ wistful indie-rock track ‘Nevermind,’ Asake and Wizkid’s Afrobeat-infused ‘Iskolodo,’ Charlotte Plank’s speed garage ‘Crybby Blue,’ James Welsh’s grief-themed electronic ‘Fret,’ Durand Jones and the Indications’ symphonic-soul ‘Let’s Take Our Time,’ and Joshua Chiquimia Crampton’s distinctive guitar-driven ‘Ch’uwanchaña ~El Golpe Final~’. The selection encourages readers to follow the Guardian’s rolling playlist on streaming platforms.