80s Instrumental Music Bands

Let's dive into the totally awesome world of instrumental music bands from the 80s! Guys, the 1980s weren't just about big hair and neon clothes; it was also a golden era for some seriously cool instrumental tunes. These bands ditched the vocals and let their instruments do all the talking, creating soundscapes that were sometimes epic, sometimes funky, and always memorable. We're talking synth-heavy anthems, guitar wizardry, and saxophone solos that could melt your face off. So, crank up the volume and get ready to explore some of the most influential and groundbreaking instrumental groups that defined a decade.

The Rise of Instrumental Music in the 80s

Instrumental music really hit its stride in the 80s for a bunch of reasons. First off, the technology was getting seriously good. Synthesizers became way more affordable and versatile, opening up a whole new world of sounds that bands could play with. Suddenly, you could create these lush, layered soundscapes without needing a whole orchestra. Plus, the music scene was just super diverse back then. You had everything from New Wave to Progressive Rock, and instrumental music found a place in pretty much every genre. Radio stations were willing to take risks, and MTV was all about visuals, which meant that instrumental tracks could get exposure even without a singer or a traditional band setup.

Another huge factor was the rise of movie soundtracks. Think about iconic 80s films like "Blade Runner" or "Miami Vice". These movies had killer instrumental scores that became just as famous as the films themselves. Suddenly, instrumental music wasn't just something you heard in the background; it was front and center, setting the mood and telling a story. And let's not forget about the musicians themselves. The 80s were full of incredibly talented instrumentalists who were pushing the boundaries of what you could do with a guitar, a keyboard, or a saxophone. They were innovators, experimenters, and all-around musical geniuses who helped to elevate instrumental music to a whole new level.

Top Instrumental Bands of the 80s

Alright, let's get to the good stuff: the bands themselves! Here are some of the top instrumental bands of the 80s that you absolutely need to know about.

Shadowfax

These guys were pioneers of what they called "New Age instrumental music," blending elements of jazz, rock, and world music into something totally unique. Their sound was all about atmosphere and texture, creating these dreamy, evocative soundscapes that were perfect for chilling out or going on a sonic adventure. Shadowfax's use of exotic instruments like the lyra and the hammered dulcimer really set them apart, and their albums like "Shadowfax" and "The Dreams of Children" are still considered classics of the genre. If you're looking for something mellow but still musically adventurous, Shadowfax is your band.

Mannheim Steamroller

Okay, these guys might be best known for their Christmas albums, but don't let that fool you. In the 80s, Mannheim Steamroller was a force to be reckoned with in the instrumental music scene. Founded by Chip Davis, they combined classical music with rock and electronic elements to create a sound that was both majestic and totally modern. Their "Fresh Aire" series of albums were hugely popular, and their innovative use of synthesizers and recording technology paved the way for a lot of other instrumental artists. Whether you're into classical music or not, you can't deny the impact that Mannheim Steamroller had on the 80s music scene.

The Art of Noise

Now, if you want something a little more avant-garde, check out The Art of Noise. These guys were all about experimentation, using sampling, synthesizers, and found sounds to create these wild, unpredictable sound collages. They were heavily influenced by musique concrète and other experimental music movements, but they also had a knack for creating catchy, danceable grooves. Tracks like "Close (to the Edit)" and "Moments in Love" are still classics, and their influence can be heard in everything from electronic music to hip-hop. The Art of Noise were true innovators, pushing the boundaries of what music could be.

Jan Hammer

Okay, Jan Hammer might be best known for his work on the "Miami Vice" soundtrack, but he's also a phenomenal instrumental artist in his own right. His synth-heavy sound became synonymous with the 80s, and his solo albums like "Miami Vice" and "Escape from Television" are full of killer instrumental tracks. Hammer's use of synthesizers and drum machines was groundbreaking, and his music perfectly captured the mood and energy of the decade. If you want to feel like you're cruising down Ocean Drive in a Ferrari, Jan Hammer is your guy.

Yngwie Malmsteen

For all you guitar shredders out there, we can't forget Yngwie Malmsteen. This Swedish guitarist took the world by storm in the 80s with his virtuosic playing and his neoclassical style. Malmsteen's guitar work is all about speed, precision, and technicality, and he's influenced countless guitarists over the years. His albums like "Rising Force" and "Marching Out" are full of mind-blowing guitar solos, and his live performances are legendary. If you're a guitar player, Yngwie Malmsteen is a must-know.

The Enduring Legacy

The instrumental music that came out of the 80s continues to inspire and influence musicians today. Its impact can be heard in film scores, video game soundtracks, and electronic music. The innovative use of synthesizers, drum machines, and other technologies paved the way for a lot of the music we hear today. So, next time you're looking for something a little different, why not check out some of these amazing instrumental bands from the 80s? You might just discover your new favorite artist.