Movida Madrileña is the soundtrack of the youth culture that exploded in Madrid after the dictatorship ended. New wave, synth-pop, and punk mix together, marked by bright synth lines, ironic lyrics, and a frank, liberated openness about nightlife and sex. The exhilaration of being released from repression is audible in the music itself.

The death of Franco in 1975 ended a long dictatorship, and young people who had regained their freedom surged into action in Madrid around 1980. Bands, designers, and filmmakers (such as Pedro Almodóvar) inspired by foreign punk and new wave gathered in the city's nightlife, creating an explosive scene where art and entertainment fused.

Enjoy the contrast between gaudy synth hooks and breezy, sometimes flippant vocals. Note how punk's simple drive coexists with the polish of synth-pop. With Mecano, the arrangements become far more elaborate and the pop craftsmanship rises to an international level.

Mecano's 'Hijo de la Luna' has a beautiful melody and was an international hit, making it an easy way in. To feel the scene's raw early energy, go to Alaska y los Pegamoides' 'Bailando.'

Filmmaker Pedro Almodóvar was himself a central figure of the movement and even played in a band in his early days. La Movida was a total cultural explosion encompassing not just music but film and design.