When I listen to Believer by LAU, a few words come to mind. Indulgent. Polished. Fun. Nostalgic. Slick.

Alright, that’s the review—see ya later!

Just kidding.

In all seriousness, Believer is a record where Aztec Records’ LAU comes into her own. To most of the biz, she is known not by her stage name but as her given name Laura Fares, as a session drummer, producer, and behind the scenes collaborator. Her resume is impressive. Credits include collaborations with and contributions to tunes by the likes of Taio Cruz and NINA.

Believer is a self evident product of LAU’s songwriting skills.

When I first heard lead single “Stunning” a few months ago, I noted that there was a certain androgynous quality. I’m not trying to make a statement about LAU’s identity; what I am saying is that there’s a definite every-person quality to her sound. I was born in 1988, and I’m obsessed with the future. So, this Millennial can loosely relate to 80s culture (though I don’t remember 1989) and the future. I’m on the edge. As is she.

So, what else gives this album an “everyperson” quality? It’s human nature to enjoy spectacle, catchy hooks, and nostalgia. This album has all of that in spades. It might be tempting for some critics to latch onto the retrowave elements as over the top and cliché—but it’s the fact that LAU doesn’t hold back on these elements that makes it so fun to listen to. Personally, I sometimes wish there was bit more variety in the actual beats, but I’m not well versed enough in production to offer any real constructive criticism, so I won’t :).

One quote I came across mentioned this album had an “80s workout” quality to it, and I found that amusing – and true. Remember that video (you know the one) of 80s workout dancers in that became a meme a few years ago? This album reminds me of that in its more fun moments, and the Black Mirror episode San Junipero in its more serious moments.

My personal favorite tracks are “Stunning,” “We Had Magic,” and “Unable.”

Check out LAU on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. And follow Aztec Records for more synthwave and retrowave goodness.