(Editor’s Note: This piece is written by Justin Weems. It is the winning, randomly selected entry in a contest in which I called for people to share a short review of their favorite Electric Youth song in exchange for the chance to (a) have their review published and (b) to win a copy of Breathing, the band’s latest release.)
Electric Youth’s airy, breathtaking “Runaway” — from their 2014 debut album, Innerworld — is a personal favorite of mine. I’d say my love for it is most likely because there’s a lot to explore — from its escapist lyricism to its shimmering atmospherics.
Typically finding themselves adjacent to genres often oversaturated with flashy, grandiose displays or dark, droning soundscapes, Electric Youth instead finds success in graceful restraint. Austin Garrick’s subdued pads and pastel atmospherics take the lead on “Runaway,” only complementing the breathy nature of Bronwyn Griffin’s vocals.
As a four-on-the-floor beat kicks in, Griffin sings of pursuits of happiness and running away with a vocal cadence that could be likened to David Bowie’s performance on “Heroes.” This plush, danceable single ends about as majestically as it begins, with Griffin’s vocals getting the last word in.
“Runaway” is an emotive pleasure trip. With its memorable hooks and bright synth sounds, the track is sure to strike a chord with both the young and the young at heart.
Electric Youth participated in Vehlinggo’s celebration of the fifth anniversary of Drive in 2016. They are currently working on their followup to Innerworld. In addition, French nu-disco/house artist Lifelike is currently running a Kickstarter campaign to raise money to release his new album, which will feature a collaboration with Electric Youth.
