UK alternative rock band ISLAND has entered 2021 with a newly released single called ‘Octopus.’
‘Octopus’ is one of the more upbeat and melodic discographies of ISLAND, and emulates a similar style to High Highs, Reaper, and Her’s. Although structurally simplistic, ISLAND has managed to create a beautifully hypnotising melody in their new single. ‘Octopus’ comprises of only three verses; no bridge, no pre-chorus, not even a chorus. This unconventional structure is precisely how they generate such a mesmerising and soothing atmosphere. Whilst listening, you effortlessly enter a state of uninterrupted bliss, where you’re able to just enjoy the music and forget about anything else.
ISLAND has been captivating alternative rock listeners since 2018, after releasing their debut album Feels Like Air, followed by another popular EP in 2019 When We’re Still. Headlining at popular festivals like Reading and Leeds, and selling out several shows, they have grown immensely since the beginning of their career, where they were producing music in their bedroom and recording in small studios. Evidently, they have established a successful reputation in the music scene.
‘Octopus’ starts out with a repetitive guitar melody, later accompanied by drums and layered instrumentals. The initial guitar melody carries throughout the song until the mid-section of each verse. At these points, the change in chords and vocal tone creates a dynamic feeling, where you feel like the plot of a movie is reaching its turning point and where the emotions of the characters are becoming more transparent.
After each verse, the layering of instrumentals intensifies, allowing you to fully submerge in the sea of melodies. The progression creates an almost story-like and dimensional experience, where you are able to visualise the story, heard in the lyrics, of the ‘naughty boy’ acting ‘like he’s grown up right’. Following these three verses, enters the instrumental part, where the energetic escalation of drums and guitar makes you forget about the previous rise and fall evident in the verses.
Through their new single, ISLAND illustrates the art of simplicity and demonstrates how complex storylines and orthodox assemblies are not always necessary in order to create an up-and-coming song. Let’s see if this single will be the kick-off to another successful album.
