Circa Waves Hit Hard with ‘Death & Love Pt 1’

Circa Waves, an English indie rock band coming from Liverpool, burst onto the music scene in 2013 and have since become a staple in the indie-rock genre.

The band features Kieran Shudall as the lead vocalist and guitarist, Joe Falconer on guitar, Sam Rourke on bass, and Colin Jones on drums. Together, they have cultivated a loyal fanbase with their infectious energy, relatable lyrics, and dynamic sound.

Known for their vibrant, guitar-driven melodies and introspective storytelling, Circa Waves' music often delves into the themes of youth, love, and the complexities of human relationships. Their style reflects the influence of iconic indie-rock bands such as The Vaccines and Arctic Monkeys, while maintaining a distinct identity that sets them apart in the music landscape.

This album sees Circa Waves delving deeper into themes of personal growth, love and change, while retaining the jangly guitar tones and upbeat rhythms that have become their trademark. Teased with standout singles like ‘We Made It’ and ‘American Dream’, ‘Death & Love Pt 1’ promises a blend of anthemic indie rock and heartfelt storytelling that reflects the band’s creative maturity.

The album kicks off with ‘American Dream’, an electrifying opening track driven by bold electric guitar riffs and commanding vocals. Setting the tone for the record, the first three tracks, including this one, have already been released as singles, offering listeners a preview of the album's energy.

The first track released was ‘We Made It’. It's an anthem for resilience and the ability to bring good things out of bad situations, (“Every silver line was a gold mine”). ‘We Made It’ is both introspective and uplifting. Lines like "We fought for every inch/ and now we stand here" resonate deeply. It’s a reminder that success is as much about the scars earned along the way as it is about the destination. This track blends the band’s signature indie rock sound with a heartfelt narrative. 

In the middle of the album, lies ‘Hold It Steady’, a track that leans more indie than rock, brimming with romantic undertones. This is vividly expressed through poignant lyrics like “Take my hand /hold it steady” and “If you love me/ never let me go”. The use of an echo effect on the vocals adds depth and creates a captivating atmosphere, drawing listeners into its emotional core.

‘Let's Leave Together’ stands out as one of the most upbeat tracks on the album. Its lively, upbeat rhythm contrasts beautifully with the depth of its heartfelt lyrics, making it a perfect example of how emotional complexity can coexist with an energetic sound. The song opens with the sorrowful line, "I get this feeling/ get this feeling that I don't belong", immediately setting a reflective and vulnerable tone. This is juxtaposed against the song's lively beat, which mesmerises the listeners.  The chorus further emphasises this emotional tension with lines like, "A hundred things running 'round my head" and "With you / I can be anyone". These lyrics encapsulate themes of personal growth and the transformative power of love, suggesting that connection with another person can help us break free from self-doubt and embrace new possibilities.

‘Blue Damselfly’ has a distinct bluesy-indie vibe, blending soulful melodies with a raw, emotional undertone. Its lyrics suggest themes of personal growth and the bittersweet acceptance of change. The line, ‘If I’ve got to go/ I guess I’ll go’ resonates as a moment of surrender to life's inevitable transitions. “My blue damselfly” being repeated, serves as an anchor throughout the song, symbolising a cherished memory or a loved one.

‘Everything Changed’, is a song that was written after Kieran Shudall surgery, it's about how life was never going to be the same again, which he stated in an interview with NME.  It begins with a gentle melody before gradually incorporating dynamic drum beats. The opening line, “I see tears falling from your eyes, honey blue,” sets an introspective mood. The shift in tempo mirrors the song’s title and theme of transformation and change, emphasised by lyrics such as “Oh I know, you wanted things to stay the same” and then seconds later the repetition of “Everything changed” three times. 

Circa Waves’ highly anticipated sixth studio album, 'Death & Love Pt 1', set for release on 7th February 2025, is an exploration of growth, resilience, and human connection, solidifying their position as one of indie-rock’s most dynamic bands. Building on their signature upbeat rhythms and jangly guitar tones, the album skillfully balances the vibrant energy and catchy melodies fans have come to love with deeper, introspective themes of personal growth, romance, and change. It’s a record that reflects the essence of the band’s roots while showcasing their ongoing creative evolution.

Olivia Brown

@concertsbyolivia

Image: Polocho

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