a_shes shares new single “glory days”

a_shes is an enigmatic Malaysian-Bornean artist based between London and Cambridge who’s been going from strength to strength since his debut just last year with the single “movies & music.” Following his entrance, he’s dropped three more singles, winning over fans and tastemakers alike with his original and utterly alluring sound.

His music forms the pieces of a time machine that transports his audience back to the early 2010s and the the indie music scene that once thrived on Tumblr during that era. He’s artfully positioned himself to connect with this audience on a profoundly intimate level, crafting songs that feel like a sonic distillation of his formative years.

Now, a_shes returns with his latest single, “glory days,” a musical exploration of the short-lived nature of youth, wrapped up in his trademark alternative pop sound. The single sees a_shes lay down a truly stunning synth-driven pop landscape that perfectly blurs the lines between dreamy aesthetic and energising rhythm.

Opened by the soft drone of synth textures as a distant percussive kick chimes in, his gentle vocals flutter above to create a hazy atmosphere. Gradually building up the energy with rising vocal rhythms and lofty synth flourishes, the drums erupt to craft a driving energy for a buoyant synth pop sound that’s utterly alluring and brimming with hook-filled writing, resulting in a track that’s as hypnotic as it is infectious.

“glory days” takes the sonic shape of a heartfelt letter a_shes has penned to his childhood self yet still reaches across its deeply personal context to speak straight to your heart. It’s the kind of music that can serve as a soundtrack for various moments in life from moments pensive reflection to quiet celebration and everything in between. Written for his upcoming debut record, the song provides a taste of what we can expect in the next chapter of this exciting artist.

Listen to glory days below