Two of my favourite songs these days are Franz Ferdinand's "Take Me Out" and Modest Mouse's "Float On". There's a clear 80s influence in both. It's undeniable. Both are a modern spin on an 80s sound and both are great.

Other cool recent tunes that are appearing on SLS11 are also heavily influenced by that unmistakable 80s sound. The Stroke's "Reptilia" and The Killers' "Somebody Told Me" for example. Then, there are great new tunes from bands that made their mark in the 80s. The Beastie Boys' "Ch-Check It Out" and Velvet Revolver's "Slither" are prime examples, Velvet Revolver being made up of my favourite 80s band, Guns N' Roses. Although I'm not a fan, I must point out the new releases by Morrissey and The Cure. I'm sure that's making a number of my high school classmates awfully happy.

Love it or hate it, the 80s is well represented in new rock these days. "Take Me Out" and "Float On" are leading the charge, but they're not alone. Even if things get heavy we'll all float on alright...

Mike