Espen Kraft’s 80s Funk Resurrection: Sophisticated Pop Gets a 2026 Makeover

Espen Kraft isn’t just remixing a tune—he’s resurrecting a slice of his own musical history. This video kicks off with a trip down memory lane, as Espen dusts off a track he wrote in 1994 for his band EasterDay. The song, once called “Change” and now reborn as “Shine,” was a staple of their live sets and even made it onto their 1997 CD. But Espen’s not here to just rehash old glories; he’s on a mission to give the song a new lease of life using the skills and sounds he’s picked up over the decades.

What’s refreshing is Espen’s honesty about the original production limits—budget, gear, and all. He’s not out to make a carbon copy, but to wrap the song in new textures and arrangements that scream 2026 while keeping the 80s soul intact. It’s a nostalgia trip, sure, but with a modern twist and a clear-eyed look at what makes a pop song both timeless and fresh. If you’re expecting a museum piece, think again—this is more like a rave bunker with velvet ropes.

Now for the meat: Espen dives deep into the chord structure, and let’s just say, this isn’t your average three-chord wonder. He takes the original, straightforward triads and flips them into suspended, diminished, and major seventh voicings, all in the key of E flat. The result? Chords that shimmer with tension and release, adding layers of sophistication that keep the listener hooked. He’s not afraid to swap out boring progressions for something that actually makes your ears perk up.

Throughout the breakdown, Espen shows how subtle tweaks—like holding a G note across pre-chorus chords or throwing in a Christmasy major seventh—can transform the emotional arc of the song. It’s a masterclass in making pop sound expensive without losing its groove. If you want to see the exact finger gymnastics and hear the difference, you’ll have to watch the video—words can only take you so far when the real magic is in the voicing.

Let’s talk rhythm section. The bassline is pure Moog muscle—punchy, gliding, and played with enough attitude to make any dancefloor move. Espen admits he didn’t plan every note; it’s all about feel, punch-ins, and channeling that 80s session vibe. The drums, meanwhile, are tight but not overcooked: kicks, snares, claps, shakers, and the odd wood block, all arranged to leave space for the rest of the mix.

What’s key here is restraint. Espen avoids the temptation to overload the groove, focusing instead on funk and clarity. The drums and bass lock in to create that essential bounce, while leaving room for all the melodic ear candy flying overhead. If you want to see how the groove comes together in real time, you’ll need to catch the video—there’s only so much you can explain before you have to feel it.

With the groove locked, Espen moves on to the final arrangement and mix. He layers electric pianos for warmth, compresses them to sit tight, and high-passes to avoid mud—classic moves, but executed with taste. Guitars drop in for funky fills and loops, never overstaying their welcome. The synths and bells are sprinkled throughout, adding sparkle and tension, especially in the chorus where that D-50 Fairlight patch really shines.

Espen’s focus is always on the listener’s journey. He tweaks chord voicings, drops out elements for contrast, and keeps the arrangement evolving to avoid boredom. It’s all about providing interest without overwhelming the ear. If you want to hear how these choices actually sound—especially those layered bells and synths—you’ll need to experience the track yourself. The video is a must-watch for anyone wanting to see how a pro brings vintage pop into the now.