Middlesbrough, England-based duo The Kirk continue to expand their eclectic, charismatic sound with “Only Yesterday (We Were Dancing),” a vivid fusion of indie-pop warmth and electrified EDM shimmer; it’s a different take on their mellower track “Only Yesterday,” here with that aforementioned EDM infusion. Known for pairing ear-catching melodies with themes touching on neurodiversity and mental health, the band ventures into one of their most immersive soundscapes yet with “Only Yesterday (We Were Dancing).”
A hypnotic soundscape emanates from the get-go, as clap-laden rhythms, spacey synth pads, and spoken-word intrigue meld with sophisticated allure. “What direction are you going? Are you coming with me?” the dreamy lead vocals arrive thereafter, bolstered by sharp synth tones and brassy flourishes. The array of various vocals — from the soulful “sun will come out” hopefulness to the more debonair, nocturnal speaking — combine with the heady electronic atmospherics for a thoroughly replay-inducing sound.
A riveting, climactic expanse then takes hold — maneuvering from arp-y synth immersion and Cut Copy-esque “only yesterday” introspections into a bursting mid-point, twinkling with a mixture of electronic and psychedelic pop glimmering. Effervescent, clanging keys/synths continue to evolve amidst the dynamic vocal offerings, coming together with seamlessly melodic invigoration. Layered with a variety of compelling elements, “Only Yesterday (We Were Dancing)” is a thorough standout from The Kirk.
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We discovered this release via MusoSoup.
