London-based band, Years & Years is having a pretty stellar 2015—and it isn’t even March yet. The electro-soul-pop (what are genres?) trio is number one on BBC’s Sound of 2015 list. They’ve been steadily releasing EPs since 2013 and they dropped their Y & Y EP earlier this month. Comprised of Olly Alexander, Mikey Goldsworthy and Emre Turkmen, Years & Years produces incredibly catchy electronic music that isn’t overworked. Since their first single in 2012, the band has been cultivating its sound and gaining a solid fan-base including Sam Smith, for whom they opened on his tour last fall. With the combination of infectious beats and Alexander’s other-worldly vocals, it’s hard not to get hooked. In case you’ve yet to get acquainted with the band, here’s a Years & Years starter pack.
In 2012, they released “I Wish I Knew.” This cheeky tune almost feels like it came from a different band, and the accompanying video makes Years & Years stylistic evolution apparent.
Years & Years - I Wish I Knew from Arthur Mulhern on Vimeo.
“Eyes Shut” off their Real EP has a Youth Lagoon vibe to it. The lyrics are a bit darker and more on par with their current sound.
They amp up the bass and the edge on “Desire.”
Their latest single, “King” is a bonafide dance track. Lyrically, most of Years & Years’ songs deal with the dark side of relationships. The dreamy, layered music contrasts with Alexander’s desperate lyrics to create a tension that makes listening to Years & Years so interesting.
On the slowed-down “Memo” we get a glimpse of the band’s soul influences. Also, holy vocals, Batman.
Last month Years & Years reimagined Haim’s “Don’t Save Me” for Radio 1’s Live Lounge.
Years & Years is geared up to have a big 2015. They’re creating music that defies categorization. With smooth production and biting lyrics, this group has major staying power.
