Canadian band Desire, one of the leading names in modern synthwave and dream pop, is coming to Serbia for the very first time.
After a series of acclaimed performances across Europe, the band will perform at Zappa Baza in Belgrade on December 9, 2026.
Fans can expect a night filled with neon lights, dancing and the atmosphere of classic 1980s cinema.
A soundtrack of nostalgia and modern electronics
Desire has long been one of the defining names of the modern synthwave scene. Their signature sound blends synth-pop, dream pop, cinematic influences and retro-futuristic aesthetics.
Their performances are known for creating an atmosphere that feels equally suited to a dancefloor and a movie soundtrack.
Support: Mothermary and Johnny Jewel
Joining Desire will be Mothermary and Johnny Jewel, two influential names in contemporary electronic music.
Johnny Jewel, founder of Italians Do It Better and a driving force behind Chromatics, Glass Candy and Desire, has helped shape the sound of modern synthwave through his cinematic and emotionally charged productions.
Mothermary brings a dark blend of synth-pop, electronics and alternative pop, adding another layer to the evening’s immersive atmosphere.
A night for synthwave lovers
Fans of italo disco, movie soundtracks and modern synthwave culture will experience an evening featuring artists who helped define the genre.
Desire, Mothermary and Johnny Jewel promise a night of dancing, nostalgia and unforgettable melodies.
Event details
📅 Date: December 9, 2026 📍 Venue: Zappa Baza, Belgrade
🎫 Early bird: 2400 RSD 🎫 Presale: 2800 RSD 🎫 At the door: 3200 RSD (if available)
🎟️ Tickets: Hangtime website 🏷️ Physical tickets: Katakombe Bar & Zappa Bar (coming soon)
Ticket sales begin on June 19.
Regional tour
The day before the Belgrade show, December 8, Desire will also perform at Močvara in Zagreb, also organized by Hangtime.
Conclusion
Desire in Belgrade, joined by Mothermary and Johnny Jewel, brings a night of synth-pop, dream pop and synthwave nostalgia.
If you love Chromatics, cinematic soundtracks and stylish electronic music, this is a concert not to be missed.
Desire is a Canadian synth-pop duo formed in Montreal in 2009. The band is led by singer Megan Louise and producer, composer, and multi-instrumentalist Johnny Jewel. Jewel is one of the key figures behind the cult label Italians Do It Better and is also known for his work with Chromatics and Glass Candy.
Over the years, Desire has developed a distinctive sound that combines synth-pop, italo disco, dream pop, and cinematic atmospheres. Their music feels both nostalgic and contemporary.
The Song That Defined a Synthwave Generation
The duo reached a wider audience with “Under Your Spell”. The song appeared in the cult film Drive and became an anthem for the modern synthwave generation.
Melancholy, romance, and dance rhythms have shaped the band’s entire career. Their music was made for night drives, city lights, and dance floors. Their songs regularly find their way into films, television series, and fashion campaigns.
Johnny Jewel and the Band’s Signature Sound
Much of the band’s identity is connected to Johnny Jewel. His production work and collaborations with Chromatics and Glass Candy have had a major influence on the modern synthwave and dream pop scenes.
Over the years, the duo has developed its own musical identity. Elegant melodies, retro aesthetics, and contemporary production define their sound. This combination is what sets them apart from the rest of the electronic music scene.
Hypnotic Concerts and Dancefloor Energy
With albums such as Desire and Escape, the band has established itself as one of the most exciting live acts in contemporary electronic music.
Their concerts are known for hypnotic atmospheres, elegant visuals, and infectious dance energy. Audiences remain in motion from the first song to the last.
Live performances are one of the reasons the band has built a loyal following around the world. Each concert combines nostalgia, romance, and dancefloor euphoria in a way that has become unmistakably their own.
Info
🎤 Artist: Desire 📍 Montreal, Canada 🎵 Genre: synth-pop • dream pop • italo disco • synthwave 🏆 One of the flagship acts of the Italians Do It Better label 💿 Known for: “Under Your Spell”, the albums Desire and Escape, and Johnny Jewel’s work with Chromatics and Glass Candy
MOTHERMARY is an American electro-pop duo formed by sisters Elyse and Larena Winn. Raised in Montana, they now work between New York and Los Angeles. Their fusion of synth-pop, darkwave, and art-pop caught the attention of the cult label Italians Do It Better, home to artists such as Desire.
Over the years, the duo has developed a distinctive identity where dark melodies and cinematic atmospheres meet modern electronic production.
“I Am Your God” and a Cult Following
Their debut album, I Am Your God, released in 2022, earned them cult status among fans of the retrofuturistic sound and aesthetics associated with producer Johnny Jewel.
Their music combines infectious synth-pop melodies with elements of darkwave and art-pop. This blend has established them as one of the most intriguing new names on the alternative electronic scene.
Music Inspired by Identity and Upbringing
Through their songs and visuals, the sisters frequently explore themes of identity, religion, and sexuality. Much of their artistic vision is inspired by growing up in a strict Mormon community.
These themes run throughout their lyrics and imagery, creating a unique combination of introspection, melancholy, and contemporary pop aesthetics.
Live Performances and Cinematic Atmospheres
Beyond the music itself, the duo is known for striking visuals and an elegant cinematic aesthetic. Their performances combine dark synth-pop melodies, powerful vocals, and an atmosphere reminiscent of modern noir films.
Audiences are drawn to the contrast between vulnerability and intensity that defines their work. This combination has made the duo one of the most exciting new names associated with Italians Do It Better and the contemporary darkwave scene.
Info
🎤 Artist: MOTHERMARY 📍 United States 🎵 Genre: electro-pop • synth-pop • darkwave • art-pop 🏆 Part of the Italians Do It Better family 💿 Known for: I Am Your God, retrofuturistic aesthetics, and collaborations with Johnny Jewel
Johnny Jewel is one of the most influential producers, composers, and multi-instrumentalists in contemporary synth-pop. He is the founder of the cult label Italians Do It Better and the driving force behind projects such as Chromatics, Glass Candy, and Desire.
Over the past two decades, he has developed a distinctive musical identity that blends melancholic synth-pop, italo disco, and cinematic atmospheres. This combination has had a profound influence on an entire generation of artists and fans of retrofuturistic music.
Film Soundtracks and Collaboration with David Lynch
Jewel’s music has appeared in numerous films and television series. His compositions can be heard in Drive, Bronson, and Lost River, while his work with legendary filmmaker David Lynch was featured in Twin Peaks: The Return.
His music is often associated with neon lights, night drives, and the atmosphere of modern noir cinema. This aesthetic has become the signature of the entire Italians Do It Better label.
Analog Production and a Distinctive Style
Much of his reputation is built on his use of analog equipment and his perfectionist approach to production. Every detail, from synthesizer tones to vocal recording techniques, is carefully crafted to create a unique atmosphere.
This approach has made him one of the key architects of the modern retrofuturistic sound and one of the most respected producers on the alternative electronic scene.
Music That Shaped a Generation
Through Chromatics, Glass Candy, and Desire, Johnny Jewel has left a lasting mark on the synth-pop, dream pop, and darkwave scenes. His influence can be heard in countless contemporary artists, and his music continues to inspire a new generation of musicians.
As a result, his name is widely regarded as one of the most important in modern electronic music.
Info
🎤 Artist: Johnny Jewel 📍 United States 🎵 Genre: synth-pop • italo disco • dream pop • electronic 🏆 Founder of Italians Do It Better 💿 Known for: Chromatics, Desire, Glass Candy, the Drive soundtrack, and his collaboration with David Lynch
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