Visions In Clouds just gave us an insanely nostalgic and wondrously lush synth-pop album that's full loaded with all the bells and whistles you could [possibly ask for from a record like this one.
The aesthetic of the Are You Still Watching? album is completely nailed as synths sway and swell, bass lines get their funk on, and vocals give off a classic feel and add this almost dreamy undertone at times.
This album is absolutely addictive and bursting with a perfected nostalgia that you can't help but want more and more of.
The release is built and driven by the synth sounds used to make it all happen and the guitars add extra hooks and distanced atmospheres as the record plays on.
The vocals can be both edgy and warm depending on the vibe of the song and each one has a little bit of freshness to bring to the table.
There is this really cool swagger as well that exists behind the songs and is subtle but evident enough for you to take notice.
They get into these songs, and they all have heart as well which is the best part of you ask me.
They have a deeper meaning, and all have some layers to peel back in a way.
With the release of such a killer album, we wanted to touch base with the band to talk about where this came from.
Here's what happened.
RAG: Okay so let's start with "Thieves". This single has a great retro-synth pop feel to it! Where did this track come from?
From the phase of us writing new songs and trying to find new sounds that feel right. It’s quite the transition compared to the last release and we felt more like 80s/90s synth vibes – and then ‘Thieves’ came along.
RAG: I’m hearing some great styles on this release. Who are some of your biggest musical influences?
Some are rather obvious: The likes of Depeche Mode or Future Islands have been huge influences for years. But we take inspiration from all genres of music. We’re big fans of Daughter, Alvvays, Bruce Springsteen and David Bowie too. Only to mention a few here.
RAG: So how did this all begin for you really? When did you fall in love with making music?
We’ve been friends for a long time and always enthusiastic when it comes to music. So naturally we had to form a band. As it goes we started in a basement with almost no gear. But we built from there.
RAG: What's next for you as an artist?
We just toured through Europe and have more shows on home soil for the rest of the year. At the same time we’re lining up collaborations with artists to put together some Remixes of our album.
RAG: What inspires you to write a song?
The obstacles live throws in front of you.
RAG: What are you doing when you're NOT working on music?
Making money. We both work daytime jobs on the side.
RAG: Who are you listening to right now?
The latest releases of French producer Kavinsky is on heavy rotation. Same for the latest Bicep album.
RAG: Are you doing live performances?
Yes. You should come to a show – we put on quite the performance.
RAG: This single seems like a big undertaking. What kind of advice might you have for other up and coming artists out there?
Stay sexy.
RAG: Before we go, what would you like to say to fans of the music?
Tell your friends and family about our video for ‘Thieves’ – it features the most amazing dogs. We love dogs.