Naarm/Melbourne production duo Close Counters have just released their vibrant new album, 'LOVERS DANCE ACADEMY'. Recorded in their Brunswick studio and various locations around the globe, and produced by Finn Rees and Allan McConnell (with Allan also handling mixing duties), the album is a joyous exploration of sound, anchored by their latest single, 'I'LL BE THERE FOR YOU'.
'LOVERS DANCE ACADEMY' is a rich tapestry woven from threads of soul, broken beat, house, and jazz. Think intricate percussion, shimmering synths, and basslines that pulse with life. Close Counters' signature instrumentation shines through, but the production is cleverly spacious, allowing the music to breathe and groove.
Collaboration is key to their sound, and this album is no exception. It boasts a host of exciting guest performances, including Lyric Jones, Tiana Khasi, Allysha Joy, Jace XL, and Shiv, plus contributions from their extended musical family – Lucky Pereira, Robyn Poppins, Matthew Hayes, Ryotaro Noshiro, Tiaryn Griggs, Annalisa Fernandez, and even Adam Halliwell from Mildlife on the opening track. The result is a celebratory atmosphere, capturing the raw energy of their live shows.
The duo explain the concept behind the album, sharing, "'LOVERS DANCE ACADEMY' is a concept album about an idea where we want to transport the listeners to a club, or collective, that's manifesting a better world through art. It's both a metaphor for the power of collective energy in dance music that can give life to the people, and literal in the sense that there's a collective behind the Close Counters album. A place where you learn, it's mysterious and intriguing. Never quite giving everything away. Each song is a confession of life and love's growths, 'FREEDOM WE'RE NEEDING', 'FEELING TAKES OVER ME', and 'ON THE MOVE' cover the longing for freedom through movement. 'WAITING ALL NIGHT' and 'CONSTANT LOVE' are more personal accounts of love's journey. 'I'LL BE THERE FOR YOU' is a collective message to lift those around you or someone in need."
To celebrate the album’s arrival, Close Counters are embarking on their most extensive Australian tour yet, building on a string of sold-out shows in Naarm/Melbourne. Last year saw them conquer the UK/EU with a self-booked headline tour, including a sold-out show at the legendary Ronnie Scott's Jazz Club, appearances at festivals like Lost Village, Manchester Jazz Festival, and Cabaret Sauvage, and gigs at venues such as Jazz Café London, Sisyphos, and Ninety One Living Room, culminating in a set at Defected Malta.
Close Counters' previous album, 'SOULACOASTA II', won Best Electronic Work at the Music Victoria Awards and was featured by Double J, PBS, and 2SER. They’ve also performed for 3RRR’s Live at RRR series, contributed a Mix Up set to triple j, and earned praise from international tastemakers like Gilles Peterson, Folamour, Jamz Supernova, Jaguar, and Complexion. Their 2022 track 'Rollout' landed on the FIFA 23 Soundtrack, and 'SNAP TO IT!' was chosen by Apple for their iPhone 15 Pro Max campaign.
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