Track of the Day: Vix 20 – Orla The Octopus
Disillusioned with the state of the music industry, veterans CJ and Gary Mills chose to walk away vowing never to return…until now. Approximately three years ago, the UK-based duo released their first single in a decade, ‘Digital Age’. The release was met with high acclaim from BBC Introducing, The Punk Site and various radio stations; fast-forward a few years and we have Vix 20’s latest track ‘Orla The Octopus’.
Described by The Ring Master Review as being “…seventies power-pop aligned to progressive rock enterprise”, Vix 20 adds some sugary sweet pop to organic rock. Unique in that they drag us to the sounds of yesteryear but with a contemporary flair, Mills and CJ create a kaleidoscopic soundscape with their intricate music. ‘Orla The Octopus’ follows the soft, soothing ‘Broken Melody’ (read our review here) with an upbeat, jovial bounce to the pop style.
Lying somewhere between The Beatles and Oasis, ‘Orla The Octopus’ incorporates jangle-pop with indie-rock influences. As I mentioned before, Vix 20 draws together the sounds of yesteryear with modern-day music styles making them relatable for people of all ages and genre preferences. It is this originality that truly highlights experience, skill and all ‘round fantastic musical talent. Yet, while the melody is intriguing with a toe-tapping quality, it is the lyricism that grabs my attention.
Known for their intimate tunes, Vix 20 use personal narratives to connect with their listeners. ‘Broken Melody’ was a melancholic interpretation of a personal letter to a daughter, but ‘Orla The Octopus’ steers the intensity and intimacy on a different route. The buoyant song is one that we can easily sway along to; however, the juxtaposition in melody and lyricism is quite intriguing. Vix 20 shares that ‘Orla The Octopus’ is a “…tongue in cheek account of a good friend who fell on hard times.” Alright, the “hard times” was only for a short period (about an hour or so), so there is an amusing detour here.
Fun, catchy and infectious, ‘Orla The Octopus’ is an anthemic spark of sunshine on dreary autumn days. I cannot wait for more from the talented duo.
For more from Vix 20 check out their official website, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Spotify.
