Foley has once again released an exceptionally well-crafted EP with infectious energy, perfect for the upcoming summer. ‘Vacation‘ could not have come at a better time, as I think we could all could use a little holiday.
The New Zealand duo is comprised of Ash Wallace (lead singer) and Gabriel Everett, who have combined their incredible musical talents to create catchy electro-pop tunes, with hints of disco and R&B. Their addictive melodies and vibrant vocals set them apart from others and unsurprisingly draw in millions of fans to their music. Foley has been creating music since 2017 and has proven their success with every release. Their debut EP On My Conscience gained them a spot in the top 10 NZ album charts their single ‘Midnight‘ achieved #1 for independent songs on NZ radio.
With ‘Vacation,’ Foley takes us along the well-known journey of falling in love. Through these songs, the awkward, euphoric stages of a new relationship are perfectly portrayed. Starting off with ‘Keep Me On My Toes,’ Foley describes the descending moment in a relationship, where things aren’t as exciting as they once were. The longing for surprises and adventure after the infamous ‘honeymoon phase’ is ideally captured through the lyrics.
“I keep drifting out to sea / I need you here with me / Stay close / Keep me on my toes”
The groovy disco-like bass instantly makes you want to get up and dance and ultimately sets the tone perfectly for the rest of the EP. ‘Anything Before You‘ echoes a similar style to that of Dua Lipa, and carries on the funk and groovy energy from Keep Me On My Toes.’ This tune encapsulates the enamoured and blinding feeling of falling in love that I’m pretty sure everyone can relate to. No one seems as perfect as the person you’re within the moment.
“It’s getting harder to remember / Anything before you”
The upbeat and energetic start to the EP is soon contrasted by a calm and smooth R&B melody in ‘Better Than Love.‘ The poetic lyrics beautifully illustrate the feeling of glorifying a crush, to the extent where the unrealistic imaginary created in one’s head dominates the reality of the situation. The track ends with the lyrics “Can you stay as my crush / ‘cause the thought of you is better than love.” After creating a flawless picture of someone, it is natural that their realities will disappoint. Wallace mentioned in an interview that “when you have been hurt in the past, you get into the mindset that nothing can be as good as it seems.”
The penultimate track, ‘Rendezvous,’ revives the energetic mood and alludes to the title of the EP.
“Be my vacation / Just name a location”
‘Rendezvous’ heavily incorporates funk influences and describes the metaphorical feeling in a relationship where being with someone mentally takes you to a better place. Just spending time with your significant other feels equivalent to that of discovering a new place, and relaxing on a vacation. Foley ends their EP with ‘So Personal,’ a song previously released in 2020, which has already amassed incredible support. Wallace’s effortless portrayal of instant attraction is conveyed throughout. The quick transition from being strangers to engaging in an intimate relationship can be very nerve-racking and personal. The intensity that comes along in a new relationship can become overwhelming, yet ultimately, the thrill and excitement make it all worth it in the end.
Overall, Foley highlights the internal struggles that come along with relationships and finding new love interests, through their melodic lyrics. The slight touches of funk, disco and R&B incorporated into this EP contribute to the lively atmosphere, and ultimately make this the perfect summer playlist.
