Originally hailing from Athens and now based in London, Laertis Liakopoulos is a singer-songwriter and guitarist craft a progressive folk sound under his first name, Laertis. In his musical journey, he’s ventured through various music phases before reaching an era of folk inspired music that reframes the genre in a completely new light by blending traditional and Mediterranean folk, soul, Latin, rock, hip hop and pop tinged with electronic touches.
Guided by inspiration from the Jungian Shadow theory and a movement of fierce individualism, Laertis found a profound realisation. His music distils the understanding that attempting to conform to societal norms and expectations not only restricts the expression of true emotions but can also awaken self-focused attitudes that hinder personal and collective growth.
Unveiling his sound in 2020, he released his debut single “Just U,” he’s since built up an impressive catalogue of music including a single with Brutal Ordem Nula, a collaborative EP with Markiif, the 2022 album Les Vulnerables and an EP of live recordings. Now he shares the latest chapter in his unique musical story with the release of his brand new single titled “Things.”
In the studio that sits inside the London cocktail bar The Thin White Duke, Laertis tinkered with organic and electronic sound, and out of his experimentation, the ideas that would later form the song “Things” began to take shape. Reflecting significant shifts in his personal life, the track captures a sense of free-flowing writing and playful musical exploration.
Threaded with a theme of self-acceptance and celebrating all the nuances and quirks of your identity, “Things” serves up a stunning slice of alternative folk pop wrapped up in an atmospheric soundscape. Brought in by the laid back groove of gentle shaker rhythms as bright acoustic guitar lines tumble into place, the track settles into a smooth flow as the vocals of Laertis glide in to spin airy melodic lines.
With the rise and fall of the arrangement, bending from the swaying dance of the percussion and pulsing of light bass lines to the stripped back moments where his voice hangs in a sea of stretching reverb, “Things” offers a charming sound that’s at once intimate and catchy. Building from a delicate folk pop vibe to a gritty rock-inflected crescendo, crunchy guitar tones and striking drums form a lofty finale that cuts to an abrupt end. Captured by the artist’s innovative approach yet managing to host a timeless feel, “Things” is a delightful outing that showcases the poignant lyricism, experimental style and performance panache of Laertis.
Listen to Things below
Photography credit: Gianmarco
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