Living in Shadows releases new record

Based in Gateshead in the north of the UK, Living in Shadows is duo formed by vocalist Zoe Gilby and multi-instrumentalist Andy Champion. Over the last four years, this pair has been going from strength to strength in the UK music scene and beyond, blending elements of alternative pop and progressive rock tinged with the jazz stylings of their background.

Both artists come with impressive pedigrees in the jazz world. Zoe Gilby, crowned the 2019 jazz vocalist of the year at the parliamentary awards, has self-released five albums and performed at major jazz festivals worldwide. She’s also collaborated with notable musicians like Tony Kofi, Jason Yarde and Gary Crosby.

Andy Champion, a multi-instrumentalist and composer, has an impressive career that spans more than three decades with accolades including leading his progressive jazz quintet ACV, releasing critically acclaimed albums and performing with the Voice of the North Jazz Orchestra. His extensive work in the UK and Europe has earned his reputation as a significant figure in jazz and improvised music.

Together as Living in Shadows, they first introduced their sound in 2020 with the debut single “For The Day,” followed by “Sending Electricity” and their eponymous debut album later that year. After a brief hiatus, this year they’ve returned with a renewed creative spark, releasing two new singles that set the stage for their sophomore album, Neon Burning.

Neon Burning, an eight-track album, is an enthralling musical journey that reflects on endings and new beginnings, offering an experience-focused map for facing life’s challenges. Released via Lamplight Social Records, the album was produced by Chris Sharkey and mastered by Peter Beckmann at Technologyworks Mastering, providing the perfect snapshot of the latest chapter in the Living in Shadows musical story.

Opened by lead single “Cast Away,” the track starts with a playful bass line joined by intricate guitar accents and a gentle pattering rhythm. Zoe’s elegant vocals enter above the snap of drums to spin catchy melodic leads carrying lyricism about taking risks and embracing challenges. With the light crunch of guitars, slick lead flourishes and a psych-tinged, prog-inflected sound, it’s a memorable outing that perfectly sets up the record.

“Who Are You?” sets up a grooving indie rock vibe with the twang of guitar rhythms joined by the splashy strike of drums as the arrangement builds up. Dropping back the energy, Zoe’s voice glides in to stitch airy melodic threads into the vibrant sonic fabric as the duo take us on an expansive rock journey that showcases their unique sound with the echoes of their jazz inspirations shining in the instrumentation.

“Silently Dancing” hops with a bouncy shuffle as the delicate tap of drums is met with mellow guitar chords and vocal leads. Encouraging listeners to get back in touch with nature with a soundtrack for a moonlit ritual, the laid back energy and smooth melodies result in a charming sound built on the lilting sway of rhythm, alluring vocals of Zoe and musicianship panache of Andy.

Other highlights on the album include previously released single “Satellites” which immediately lays down an energising sound with the lively drums matched by the intricate flutter of guitar plucks. Zoe’s expressive vocals deliver a shifting sound that flows between subdued delivery and lofty melodic stretches to deliver a superb display of the duo’s extraordinary and highly original sonic vision.

The album closes with title track “Neon Burning” where soothing key tones underpin Zoe’s tender vocals, gently slipping into a dreamy soundscape full of blissful sonic textures and hushed vocal leads. Offering a mesmeric listening experience, it provides the perfect conclusion to the duo’s sensational new record that’s full of exquisite vocal and instrumental performances, bringing to life the enthralling Living in Shadows sound in spectacular fashion.

Listen to Neon Burning below