Track of the Week: Across The Sky // Empire of Lights

Based in mid-Wales, Empire of Lights brings the psychedelic ambience of yesteryear into the 21st Century. Founded in December 2018, John Aziz (vocals and guitar), Simon Eversfield (bass and keys) and Eifion Davies (drums) came together to share a new type of psych-rock with the masses. Featured on BBC Introducing, The Other Side Reviews, Electric Music Magazine, Eat This Rock and various online radio stations, Empire of Lights is building a large following for their eclectic sound. We introduce you to their artistry with their 2020 single ‘Across The Sky’.

Describing their music as “a kind of science fiction rock music”, Empire of Lights has a rather unique sound for contemporary society. Combining pounding drums with soaring guitars and bold vocals, ‘Across The Sky’ is a high-powered track with some ethereal kickback. One of the intriguing features of the lads, particularly in ‘Across The Sky’, is their ability to create a wistful ambience yet anchor the listener with rock-inspired instrumentation. So, it’s like drifting off on a warm breeze but still “keeping your head” and not submitting to the full haziness. Psychedelia, but without any overwhelming melodic fog.

Science fiction to the core, ‘Across The Sky’ is a track about life in outer space but with a certain depth. Instead of talking about floating beyond our atmosphere, Empire of Lights explores the anxiety and joy experienced. Aziz’s hushed vocals underline the fear and desperation of the theme but leave a lingering sense of hopefulness with the harmonic soundscape.