Live Review: Secret Spade have dropped their lush debut single, ‘Gallows’

Sydney duo SECRET SPADE have teased the release of their first EP, due to be released independently in early 2017, with ‘Gallows’, a track steeped in house vibes and tempered with surprisingly tender vocals.

It’s an impressive first hit-out for Johann Willenberg and Marcus Ng, who have previously released music separately under the monikers Yogi and Tikki Tembo. ‘Gallows’ is open and thought provoking, probing into problems with addiction, and the hope found in recovery.

“We wanted it to be about recognising a problem and taking the necessary steps to fix that. The lyric is quite personal, but we hope it’s something people can relate to, especially those in trouble with substance abuse.”

Secret Spade keep things low-key production-wise, allowing Willenberg’s vocals to pull your focus.  Eschewing the chorus structure you might usually find on a track in this style keeps this one dancefloor-friendly as they walk the line between blissed-out house and lyrical, brooding electronic pop.

It’s a refreshing take on a genre typically far more focused on the beats underneath the vocals, especially in the authenticity on display through honest, albeit simple, lyricism. Nevertheless, there are layers to this track that show that Secret Spade know what they’re doing when it comes to crafting chill electronica, with a subtle baseline and stripped back melodies that maintain a solid groove throughout.

Words by TED DWYER

LISTEN TO MORE NEW MUSIC HERE

SEE ALSO

CHRISTOPHER PORT SHOWS HIS SOULFUL SIDE IN NEW TWO-TRACK RELEASE