Sydney-based electro-indie artist Angus McColl has today shared his dreamy new single “Dead” with us ahead of its official release tomorrow.
Inspired by a piano melody from producer Andre Keuneman, “Dead” came together over six months of intense studio sessions. A blend of analogue and digital synths create a cinematic soundscape representing the layers and power of heartbreak. Warm strings and ominous sub-bass swim beneath contemporary percussion as McColl’s tender vocals echo throughout.
“I wrote a song at about 3 am in my little apartment in Bronte, Sydney,” McColl explains. “My housemate (Xela the artist) was working with a producer that day. She showed Andre the track. Later on I got a phone call saying he’d like to meet. I remember still being so tired and heartbroken I barely knew which way was up.
I met Dre and he had this piano track written called “Sad Billy”, he played it for me and as soon as I heard it, I wrote the song down in my notes “you take your pills in the morning to numb the pain” and sang it over his loop – that was in the first 5 minutes of meeting Andre. I went into the studio a mess, heartbroken, torn apart. I left after 6 months with something to prove, something to show for myself.”
The Moog, Sequential, Novation, Arturia and high-end digital synths combine to make this lush mix an ethereal journey of loss and escapism. McColl sings of unhealthy coping mechanisms as he narrates the aftermath of a relationship in his unique detached tone. Overall, his latest offering is both sonically and lyrically moving while maintaining a creatively ambiguous sound.
“Dead” is available to stream everywhere 14 February. Follow Angus McColl on his socials for more.
