HOT HORIZONS
"...grand, breathlessly romantic pop"
Hot Horizons' music is sweeping atmospheric dream-pop full of aching lyrics, grandiose and meticulous production and an almost cinematic romance.
Brothers Jake and Rory McCarthy began writing and recording together as a Hurts-style synth pop duo in 2009 but quickly expanded their sound, and their band, to fill their ambitions to create heart-swelling pop music full of drama and grandeur.
The band’s debut single October / Spoken was released by Late of the Pier’s Zarcorp label in 2010 and quickly grabbed the attention of bloggers, critics and DJs including Huw Stephens and John Kennedy.
The follow-up EP, All Of This, developed their anthemic sound further – marrying classic songwriting with even more kaleidoscopic production.
Sadly, in early 2012 the band decided to go their separate ways (temporarily at least) to concentrate on other projects - including stints in Metronomy and Connan Mockasin's band for Rory.
Their final release is the double A-side Ill / I Can't Stay Awake, an incredible record and fitting farewell from this very talented band.
Ill was written and originally demoed by songwriter/producer Rory McCarthy after spending several months severely sick in hospital. The vocal recorded in a lonely hospital corridor made it into the final version and contributes to the song’s ghostly atmosphere. Ill is a beautiful melody, soporific and ethereal, a woozy, lulling, otherworldly journey.
I Can't Stay Awake is a sublime and gentle gem that proves just as haunting and affecting. Lyrically tender the song builds hypnotically with its heartfelt refrain.
"...lo-fi and lovely, woozy yet melodic" - The Guardian
Ill / I Can't Stay Awake was released on limited edition vinyl in August 2012 through Hello Thor Records / Denizen Recordings and is available to buy HERE.
