Kyle Dixon & Michael Stein Essentials

Kyle Dixon and Michael Stein had known each other for years when they formed S U R V I V E, whose moody music gave the glossy synths of ‘80s pop a claustrophobic feel. When Stranger Things creators Matt and Ross Duffer stumbled across the band’s music, they approached Dixon and Stein about crafting the score for their retro-dwelling teen drama—and helped cement their show’s otherworldly vibe. Whether they’re introducing Millie Bobby Brown as Eleven with sparse, swirling keyboards or adding to the Starcourt Mall’s neon-lit vibe with a pulsing New Wave anthem, Dixon and Stein are a crucial part of Stranger Things’ world-building.