Step into the vibrant world of Birmingham’s own Lycio, the 'Electronic Hybrid Trio' with their latest single, “Liquid Gold”. This track, years in the making, is a dazzling blend of synthpop and soul, capturing the essence of both luxury and introspection. Lycio's exploration of love and materialism unfolds through a narrative that is both relatable and thought-provoking. As we dive into this electrifying offering, we invite you to join us in unraveling the complexities of passion versus practicality in “Liquid Gold.” Get ready to be immersed in a sonic experience that promises to captivate and resonate.
The song begins with an ethereal, almost metallic introduction—a moment of calm before the storm of sound that follows. The opening intriguing chimes followed by delicate chords are deceptive, leading listeners into what seems like a serene sonic landscape before the song explodes into a groove that’s as rich and viscous as the title suggests. At its core, “Liquid Gold” is a track about contrasts and contradictions. Lyrically, it’s a meditation on the tensions between love and money, romance and finance, and the push and pull of relationships.
The lyrics open with the haunting lines, "You’re keeping me alive, but I’ve already gone. You’re moving closer, I look into the sun..." - These words set the tone for the entire track, capturing a sense of disconnection and longing. The idea of being kept alive yet feeling distant reflects the push and pull that often characterizes complicated relationships, where emotional proximity doesn’t always align with personal fulfillment.
In the chorus, the emotional stakes are heightened: "And you’re the best, make the blood rush to my head, oh / And I’m obsessed, and I think I might be losing it..." - Here, the intensity of infatuation is clear—there's a sense of being overwhelmed by emotions, almost to the point of losing oneself. The repetition of "You’re one of the big cats and I like it / I get the big cats so excited" adds a playful yet slightly ominous tone, suggesting an attraction to power and dominance that might not be entirely healthy.
The most striking aspect of the song, however, is found in the post-chorus: "I can’t afford this love, I can’t pay for it. No, I’m not old enough, I can’t afford it..." This refrain underscores the central theme of the track—the clash between romantic desire and the harsh realities of life. The repeated emphasis on not being able to "afford" love brings a tangible, almost transactional element to the emotional narrative. It’s a powerful commentary on how financial constraints can influence relationships, turning love into something that feels out of reach or unattainable.
The bridge provides a brief moment of euphoria, with lines like "Party uptown like sex in the city / Can you tell that I’m feeling pretty?" It’s a celebration of the fleeting joys that come with living in the moment, contrasting sharply with the more grounded concerns expressed elsewhere in the song. This juxtaposition highlights the bittersweet nature of the track—joy and anxiety are in constant interplay, reflecting the ups and downs of both love and life.
Genie Mendez’s vocals are the beating heart of the track. Her smooth, buttery voice navigates the song’s intricate narrative with ease, delivering each line with a mix of vulnerability and power. She’s not just singing about the highs and lows of love—she’s embodying them, shifting effortlessly from tender introspection to bold declaration. The instrumentation, led by Charlie Kellie’s masterful sound design, creates a soundscape that’s both immersive and expansive, from the shimmering synths to the bouncing basslines that would make the likes of Charli XCX or Jessie Ware nod in approval. Drummer Alex Lowe’s contributions are equally crucial, adding a dynamic rhythm that keeps the track moving forward with a sense of urgency and excitement. “Liquid Gold” is a testament to Lycio’s artistic evolution and a shimmering highlight of their upcoming EP “Inbetween”. The fact that the song nearly tore the band apart during its creation only adds to its mystique—it’s clear that the struggles behind the scenes have only made the final product that much more compelling. As you savor the track’s captivating blend of synthpop and R&B, you'll find yourself discovering new facets with every play. In a sea of fleeting sounds, “Liquid Gold” stands as a rare and precious gem. Don’t miss out—let this track become a treasured part of your playlist and experience the brilliance that is Lycio’s latest masterpiece. Take a listen below!
#Lycio #LiquidGold #GenieMendez #CharlieKellie #AlexLowe #Inbetween #Dreampop #Synthpop #Electronicpop #Indie #UK #Birmingham #Music
Listen to "Liquid Gold" on #Spotify below -
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A brilliant addition to the #UFA repertoire -
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