Despite being relative newcomers, Young Astronaut are a band taking the concept of dulcet indie to new heights.
Exclusively unleashing fresh track “Wellow“, the British four-piece have carefully cultivated a sound that’s bubbling with potential. Blending haunting vocals with an edge that could almost be described as gaelic, the band’s latest release is every inch the musical time capsule.
“Lyrically, “Wellow” is an ode to the village Pete and Chris grew up in – it’s named after it in fact,” remarks the band. “It’s about growing up and moving away from your home but how that time impacts whatever we do and stays with us wherever we go. It aims to portray this by painting a picture of the landscape of the New Forest. It’s esoteric in some places but hopefully relatable as a whole.”
Whilst undeniably a slow-burner, “Wellow” comes into its own at 1:45. Transitioning from stripped-back piano-led verses to soaring choruses laced with strings, the result is most certainly worth the wait.
With sophomore album A Gold Frontier set for release April 7th, we sat down with the quartet to talk band names, embarrassing experiences and everything in between.
For those readers who don’t know your sound yet, how would you describe your music?
I’d put us in the indie genre. Think the melodic hooks of Two Door Cinema Club, soundscapes of The National and introspective lyrics of Elliott Smith.
How band name come about?
Pete: I wish I could tell you that wanting to be astronauts inspired our music but it’s actually the best name we came up with after a month of brainstorming.
On April 7th you’ll be releasing your second album, A Gold Frontier; what can fans expect from your upcoming material?
A Gold Frontier hones the early songwriting potential from our debut record and combines it with a broader soundscape – more electronics and instrumental embellishments. Some songs it’s a 40-strong choir, whereas others are a simple melodica. We’ve been working on the album for the last 5 years and were lucky enough to work with Geoff Swan (White Lies, Coldplay, Bastille) who added his magic touch as a producer and mixer.
Which tracks are your favourite on the record and why?
Pete: For me it has to be “Ink“. It’s the most unconventional track, one that really pushed our songwriting ability. It’s also the most enjoyable to play live.
Chris: “Chasing El Dorado“, our first single from the record – I love the percussive chorus. Also, I feel like “Wellow” came out well; it’s the simplest song on the record but a strong one.
What is the happiest/ best music-related memory for Young Astronaut so far and why?
We recently supported one of our favourite bands, The Rural Alberta Advantage, on one of their sold out London dates. It was an honour to share the stage with a band that we have so much respect for.
“The most embarrassing experience was having to phone Geoff (our producer) to explain that we’d need to re-record the female vocals on a fully mixed track because Niko had split up with the girl that sang on it.”
What’s the most embarrassing/ funny experience for Young Astronaut and why?
The most embarrassing experience was having to phone Geoff (our producer) to explain that we’d need to re-record the female vocals on a fully mixed track because Niko had split up with the girl that sang on it.
When can we see you perform next?
We’re playing at The Lock Tavern in Camden on April 5th and Teddy Rocks festival at the end of April!
Dogs or cats?
Loyalty of a dog, badass attitude of a cat.
