Bradley Simpson, known to many as a key figure in the pop-rock powerhouse The Vamps, has unveiled his highly anticipated solo debut, 'The Panic Years'. This release signifies a significant evolution for the artist, marking his transition into a realm of deeply personal and sonically diverse songwriting.
Simpson, now stepping into the spotlight as a solo artist, has positioned himself as a compelling voice within the UK's burgeoning musical landscape. 'The Panic Years' showcases a blend of sincere emotional expression, a refined indie-rock sensibility, and a captivating stage presence. To mark the album's release, he has shared a special Amazon Curved session performance of his track 'Getting Clear', offering a glimpse into his new artistic direction.
Moving beyond the pop foundations of his earlier career, 'The Panic Years' ventures into more introspective territories, exploring themes of vulnerability and personal growth. Simpson's songwriting delves into psychedelic and '70s/'80s inspired sounds, all while maintaining an accessible and engaging style.
Much of the album was crafted within the intimate setting of his home studio, before he collaborated with a diverse range of producers and writers. This included industry heavyweights like BOOTS (renowned for his work with Beyoncé), Ina Wroldsen (who has written for Rag 'n' Bone Man), Andrew Wells (associated with RAYE), and Anthony Rossomano (of The Libertines).
In his own words, Simpson explains, “I saw this as an opportunity to really dive into what my identity would be – the biggest thing being that I can talk about experiences that are very personal. The last ten years have been such a whirlwind, and I don’t know if I’ve had the opportunity to dive into the past. It’s quite hard to unpack everything that went on until we were out of it.”
The 'Getting Clear' Amazon Curved session highlights Simpson's ability to blend genres seamlessly. He infuses heavy funk with a hard rock edge, demonstrating a vocal range that stretches from powerful poise to delicate falsetto. This performance provides a fresh perspective on an artist already well-versed in captivating arena audiences.
'The Panic Years' offers a wealth of new material, building upon previously released singles like ‘Picasso’, ‘Cry At The Moon’, ‘Always Like This’ and ‘Carpet Burn’. Tracks such as ‘Not Us Anymore’ explore melancholic indie-pop, while ‘Almost’ delves into glacial balladry. Notably, ‘The Band’s Not Breaking Up’ provides a nod to his past, indicating that his journey is one of evolution, not separation.
Fans can purchase 'The Panic Years' in various formats, including black and eco vinyl, CD, and cassette, with bundles and signed copies available. Australian fans will have the opportunity to experience Simpson's new project live in May during his debut solo headline tour, with shows scheduled in Melbourne, Brisbane, and Sydney.
