Recommended Tracks: “Eyes Wide Shut,” “Vultures,” “Beckham,” “Radiosoul”
Similar Artists: Declan McKenna, Rex Orange County, Still Woozy
Alfie Templeman’s sophomore album, Radiosoul, released on June 7, 2024, cements his place as one of the most innovative young artists in the indie pop realm. Known for his eclectic sounds and youthful exuberance, Templeman pushes the boundaries of modern pop with an album that is both a nostalgic nod to the past and a fresh take on contemporary music.
Despite its relatively low play count amongst tracks on the album, “Vultures” is a sonic gem. Featuring Atari and Nintendo beeps intertwined with dial tones, it creates a soundscape that is both nostalgic and new. The song concludes with a crescendo of isolated electronic beeps, showcasing Templeman’s experimental edge and his knack for interesting sampling and production.
“Beckham” offers a different flavor with its punchy guitar and a modulated arpeggio that oscillates from left to right and sounds pipe organ-esque. The song is buttery and would slap if you were on a bus with headphones. “Beckham” is likely my favorite track on the album.
The title track, “Radiosoul”, delves into the profound impact of social media on mental health. Templeman’s falsetto soars over a rich, textured production, inviting listeners into a dreamy, soft-psychedelic journey. This track is a testament to Templeman’s growth as an artist, blending introspective lyrics with infectious hooks.
The final song of the album, “Run to Tomorrow,” fittingly begins with the words “goodbye goodbye it’s time to go,” and is one of the other lyric-heavy songs on the album. In some ways, the album begins how it ends: with a melancholic song that asks a lot of questions. “Run to Tomorrow” is a song about being patient in the midst of healing from trauma and letting yourself feel the pain before it fades. Lyrics like “Is this the beginning? Is it never ending? I don’t wanna know so, run to tomorrow” remind listeners that time heals all wounds and that pain is a necessary evil.
One of the most striking aspects of Radiosoul is its production. Templeman collaborates with producers like Dan Carey, Nile Rodgers, and Oscar Scheller to craft a sound that is both polished and richly layered. The album is replete with synths and melodies reminiscent of vintage arcade games, a signature element that adds a unique charm to Templeman’s music.
Radiosoul captures the essence of his eclectic influences, from the vibrant energy of Miami to the bustling streets of South London. There doesn’t appear to be a linear narrative in this album, and Templeman’s lyrics take a backseat to the melodies and production. The first track “Radiosoul” is the most lyrical song on the album, and it bemoans the superficiality of modern romance with lines like “I saw your heart through a looking glass,” I tried to talk, but I can’t tick your box,” and “Is there a rain cloud in your perfect world? Is there a thorn within your rose?”
Follow Alfie Templeman: Instagram // Spotify // Twitter // YouTube
