"Saturdays = Youth" is the fifth studio album by the French electronic music project M83, released on April 14, 2008. The album was produced by Ken Thomas and Ewan Pearson, alongside M83's Anthony Gonzalez. It represents a notable shift in M83's musical style, incorporating a more accessible pop and shoegaze sound compared to earlier works.
The album draws inspiration from the 1980s, both musically and thematically. It evokes the nostalgic feel of the decade, incorporating lush synths and atmospheric soundscapes that characterize much of M83's music. The influence of 1980s culture is also reflected in the album’s lyrical themes, which touch on adolescence, nostalgia, and the passage of youth.
"Saturdays = Youth" received generally positive reviews from critics upon release. Critics praised its evocative soundscapes, production quality, and its ability to evoke a sense of nostalgia without feeling derivative. Some of the standout tracks include "Kim & Jessie," "Graveyard Girl," and "We Own the Sky," each showcasing M83’s signature blend of grandeur and emotional depth.
The album helped solidify M83's presence in the indie and electronic music scenes and contributed to the broader resurgence of interest in 1980s music aesthetics during the late 2000s. Anthony Gonzalez has expressed that the album is a homage to the films and sounds of the 1980s that had a significant influence on him growing up.
