M83’s long, rewarding journey from blippy electronica to imaginary film scores to full-on ‘80s synth-pop splendor reaches some kind of ridiculous apotheosis fairly early on into new album Hurry Up, We’re Dreaming—right about when the saxophone solo starts Tim Capello-ing all over the last minute of lead single “Midnight City.” It is a glorious moment, and the first of many on this surprisingly fast-going double LP. What elevates this stuff above pastiche or the LOL ‘80s nostalgia is the wide-screen strength of M83’s songwriting, the enveloping depth of their sound design, and above all Anthony Gonzales’ total commitment to nailing every wailing crescendo and dreamy interlude with equal care. This is the sort of thing that narcs will call a “guilty pleasure” (no such thing) or accuse of opportunistic superficiality. Don’t listen to them. Dream on. With Active Child. ERIC GRANDY

Sun., Nov. 13, 6 & 10 p.m., 2011