What Exactly Are EDM 80’s?
Let’s cut to the chase: there’s no such thing as an “EDM 80’s” beer style in the way that “IPA” or “Stout” exist. The term “EDM 80’s” is a niche, almost inside-joke descriptor that emerged from a specific subculture within the craft beer world, referring to beers that evoke the hazy, nostalgic, and sometimes overly sweet or artificial flavor profiles reminiscent of 1980s pop culture and music, particularly electronic dance music of that era. Think of it as a flavor profile rather than a defined brewing category. These aren’t beers brewed with synths and drum machines, but rather those that consciously or unconsciously tap into that era’s aesthetic and taste expectations. Often, these beers are fruity, sometimes with candy-like sweetness, low bitterness, and a generally approachable, crowd-pleasing character. They might be lagers, pale ales, or even fruit-forward sours, but the common thread is a deliberate nod to a bygone era’s sensory experience, aiming for a fun, accessible, and often retro-futuristic vibe. If you’re expecting a technical brewing term, you’re looking in the wrong place; “EDM 80’s” is about a feeling and a flavor memory.
The origin of the term is fuzzy, much like the memory of a neon-drenched arcade circa 1985. It’s believed to have gained traction in online beer communities and among certain brewery circles that leaned into playful, thematic naming conventions. The “EDM” part likely refers to the electronic dance music popular in the 80s, which itself had a futuristic, synthetic, and often euphoric quality. The “80’s” anchors it to that specific decade. The combination suggests a beer that tastes like the soundtrack to a retro-futuristic movie, or perhaps the flavor of a brightly colored, artificially flavored candy from that era. It’s a subjective descriptor, and what one person considers “EDM 80’s” another might simply call a “fruity pale ale” or a “sweet lager.” But for those in the know, it conjures a very particular set of expectations: bright, bold, possibly artificial fruit flavors, a smooth finish, and a lack of aggressive hop bitterness. It’s a celebration of nostalgia, often served with a side of irony.
The Things People Commonly Believe About “EDM 80’s” That Are Wrong
The biggest misconception about “EDM 80’s” beers is that they represent a legitimate, codified style of beer. They do not. Unlike established categories like Pilsner, Porter, or IPA, there is no defined set of brewing parameters, historical precedent, or even consistent stylistic characteristics that universally define an “EDM 80’s” beer. This leads to confusion for consumers and brewers alike. Many articles or discussions online might try to pigeonhole them into existing styles, suggesting they are merely “sweet IPAs” or “fruity lagers,” which misses the point of the descriptor entirely. The essence of “EDM 80’s” is not the base beer style, but the flavor profile and thematic intent that evokes the 80s. This often involves the use of fruit adjuncts, flavorings, and sometimes even adjunct grains or sugars to achieve specific taste and aroma notes that might not be traditional for the underlying beer type. Furthermore, the term is often used playfully and ironically, and trying to apply rigid, technical beer evaluation criteria to it can be like trying to analyze the molecular structure of a pop song – you’ll miss the magic.
Another common error is assuming that all fruity, sweet, or brightly colored beers are “EDM 80’s.” While there’s overlap, the “EDM 80’s” descriptor carries a specific connotation tied to 1980s pop culture and electronic music. A beer that tastes like fresh, ripe berries might be a delicious fruited sour, but it’s not necessarily “EDM 80’s” unless it also has that synthetic, candy-like, or neon-bright aesthetic. Conversely, a beer that uses artificial cherry flavoring, a splash of bright red color, and a name referencing a retro video game might fit the “EDM 80’s” bill perfectly, even if it’s a relatively simple lager at its core. The term is more about the vibe and the intentional evocation of a specific nostalgic sensory experience than it is about the technical brewing process or the natural flavor of ingredients. It’s the difference between a gourmet fruit salad and a bag of neon-colored gummy worms; both are sweet and fruity, but only one screams “EDM 80’s.” The focus is on a curated, often over-the-top, and consciously retro flavor profile, not simply on being sweet or fruity.
How Are “EDM 80’s” Beers Made?
Since “EDM 80’s” isn’t a style, there’s no single brewing method. Instead, brewers achieve the desired flavor profile by manipulating various elements of a base beer. The most common technique involves the addition of fruit, either as purees, juices, or concentrates, during or after fermentation. This isn’t unique to “EDM 80’s” beers, but the type and intensity of fruit flavor is key. Brewers often opt for fruits that were popular or heavily marketed in the 80s, or those that can be processed to deliver a bright, almost artificial-tasting punch. Think artificial strawberry, blue raspberry, cherry, or even tropical blends that mimic the brightly colored cocktails of the era.
Beyond fruit, artificial flavorings and enhancers play a significant role. These can mimic candy flavors, bubblegum, or other sweet, processed tastes that were prevalent in 80s confectionery. Some “EDM 80’s” beers might also incorporate adjuncts like lactose to add sweetness and a creamy mouthfeel, further pushing them away from traditional beer profiles towards a dessert-like or candy-like experience. The base beer itself is often chosen for its neutrality or its ability to carry bold flavors. Light lagers, blonde ales, or even neutral pale ales are common foundations. The goal is typically to keep bitterness low, as aggressive hop character would clash with the sweet, fruity, and nostalgic flavor profile. Some brewers might even adjust mash temperatures or add sugars to influence the final body and sweetness. Coloring agents, though less common due to regulations and consumer perception, could theoretically be used to enhance the visual neon aesthetic associated with the 80s.
Styles and Varieties
As established, “EDM 80’s” is more of a flavor theme than a distinct category. However, you’ll most commonly find this profile applied to:
- Fruited Sours: These are perhaps the most natural fit. The tartness of the sour base beer can be balanced by intense fruit additions, and the often vibrant colors achieved with fruit can lean into the 80s aesthetic. Think beers that taste like a blue raspberry slushie or a cherry hard candy.
- Lagers and Pale Ales: Some breweries will take a clean, crisp lager or a simple pale ale and infuse it with candy-like fruit flavors or syrups. The intention is to create a surprisingly sweet and fruity beverage from a usually more subdued base.
- Cream Ales: The smooth, slightly sweet, and often adjunct-driven nature of cream ales makes them a good canvas for “EDM 80’s” flavors. They can handle added sweetness and fruit without becoming overwhelmingly complex.
- “New England” IPAs (NEIPAs): While not a primary fit, some NEIPAs with excessive fruit additions and low bitterness can sometimes stray into this territory, especially if the fruit character leans towards artificial or candy-like notes rather than fresh fruit. However, the inherent hop character of an IPA usually keeps it from fully embodying the “EDM 80’s” spirit.
The key is that regardless of the base style, the final product must evoke that specific 80s sensory experience, often with a playful, over-the-top approach to sweetness and fruit. It’s about creating a beverage that feels like it belongs in a John Hughes movie soundtrack or a vibrant arcade.
What to Look For When Buying “EDM 80’s” Beers
When you’re on the hunt for an “EDM 80’s” beer, the name and description are your best guides. Look for playful, retro-themed names. Think references to 80s movies, music, video games, or slang. Keywords like “neon,” “electric,” “synth,” “arcade,” “flashback,” or specific 80s pop culture icons are strong indicators. The beer’s color can also be a clue; bright, unnatural-looking colors (like vivid blues, electric pinks, or neon greens, often achieved through fruit and sometimes coloring) are a hallmark. The aroma should be intensely fruity, often with a noticeable candy-like or artificial sweetness, rather than the nuanced, botanical aroma of fresh hops or natural fruits. On the palate, expect pronounced sweetness, low to no bitterness, and flavors that strongly mimic artificial fruit or candy. The mouthfeel is typically smooth and often creamy, thanks to adjuncts like lactose.
Don’t expect the complexity or nuance of traditional craft beer styles. “EDM 80’s” beers are designed for immediate, fun, and often nostalgic gratification. They are the beer equivalent of a brightly colored, sugary cereal from your childhood or a synthesized pop song that gets stuck in your head. The tasting notes will likely be straightforward: “tastes like blue raspberry,” “like cherry candy,” or “bubblegum.” If the description mentions specific 80s themes or overtly artificial fruit profiles, you’re probably on the right track. Remember, this is about fun and flavor escapism, not technical perfection. It’s a product that’s more about marketing and a specific, targeted flavor experience than adherence to brewing dogma. If you’re looking for a beer that sparks joy and a trip down memory lane, this is it.
Common Mistakes People Make
The most frequent mistake is approaching these beers with the same critical lens you’d use for a Belgian Tripel or a West Coast IPA. “EDM 80’s” beers are not meant to showcase hop varietals, yeast character, or complex malt bills in the traditional sense. They are about delivering a specific, often exaggerated, flavor experience. Expecting subtlety or balance in the way you would from other craft styles will lead to disappointment. Another error is dismissing them entirely as “not real beer.” While they deviate from historical brewing norms, they are still fermented beverages made with grains, water, yeast, and often fruit or flavorings. They exist to serve a specific niche and provide a particular type of enjoyment. Trying to judge them by standards they were never designed to meet is missing the point.
Furthermore, people sometimes overlook the playful and ironic nature of the “EDM 80’s” descriptor. It’s often a wink and a nod to a specific subculture. If you’re looking for a beer that takes itself very seriously, this probably isn’t it. Embrace the fun, the bright colors, and the sometimes-over-the-top flavors. The success of an “EDM 80’s” beer is measured by its ability to evoke that nostalgic, fun, and slightly synthetic 80s vibe, not by its adherence to brewing purism. If you find yourself confused because a beer tastes too much like candy, congratulations – it’s likely exactly what the brewer intended. This is where understanding the intent behind the marketing and naming conventions of dropt.beer is important; we appreciate when brands lean into personality and fun.
Verdict: The Verdict on “EDM 80’s” Beers
For the adventurous craft beer drinker seeking novelty and a dose of nostalgia, “EDM 80’s” beers are a fun and worthwhile exploration. They represent a creative avenue for brewers to experiment with flavor and theme, tapping into a widespread cultural affection for the 1980s. If your priority is a beer that is approachable, playfully sweet, and delivers a unique, memorable flavor experience that evokes a specific era, then seek these out. They are perfect for parties, casual gatherings, or simply when you want a break from more traditional beer styles and are looking for something that sparks conversation and brings a smile.
However, if your definition of great beer involves nuanced hop bitterness, complex malt profiles, or the subtle interplay of traditional brewing ingredients, you will likely find “EDM 80’s” beers to be overly sweet, artificial, and lacking depth. They are a departure from the classic craft beer ethos and are best enjoyed for what they are: a whimsical, flavor-forward celebration of 80s pop culture. The ultimate verdict depends on your personal priorities: for fun and nostalgia, they win; for traditional beer appreciation, they may not be your cup of tea. They offer a unique sensory journey, and that’s precisely their appeal.
