Buenos Aires, Thursday 12, September 2024
Por Tina Sollosky
As conversations intensify around the banning of cell phones in schools to encourage more in-person interaction, Close To Monday’s message is timely and relevant. Alongside the release of “Different”, the duo is excited to announce their first-ever US tour, with performances slated for September. Fans in Seattle, New York City, Minneapolis, and other cities yet to be revealed will have the chance to experience Close To Monday live for the very first time.
With “Different”, Close To Monday addresses the troubling trend of replacing genuine emotions and personal identities with the pursuit of digital validation and fleeting social media trends. The track continues to showcase their unique ability to blend darkwave pop with modern techno production. Their music invites listeners on a journey of self-discovery, exploring the internal landscapes of hope, anxiety, and joy—crafting a world where personal phantoms come to life.
On “Different”, Alexander lays down a driving beat anchored by a thundering kick drum and relentless rhythm. Icy synths cut through shimmering arpeggios reminiscent of 80s synth-pop, adding intensity and uplift to the track. Over this soundscape, Ann’s ethereal voice delivers introspective lyrics that explore feelings of alienation and a desire for authenticity in an increasingly virtual world. Together, they create a powerful and thought-provoking anthem that urges listeners to break free from the digital pressures to conform.
The message of “Different” is a call to reject the pursuit of online “likes” in favor of embracing real emotions, relationships, and experiences. It addresses the millions who have replaced face-to-face communication with screen time, leading to a loss of uniqueness and individuality.
“We’re deeply troubled by how people are increasingly viewing their uniqueness through the lens of trends, just to gather likes,” the duo explains. “Instead of expressing their true feelings, people are adopting those that generate more online engagement, gradually losing their individuality by blending into trends.”
As “Different” hits the airwaves, it resonates with growing concerns about social media’s impact on mental health, particularly among young people. The single highlights the importance of authentic connections in a world where digital interactions often take precedence.
“Our song ‘Different’ is about taking a step back and challenging the status quo—about being brave enough to forge your own path and celebrate your uniqueness,” says Ann and Alexander.
In staying true to their own advice, Close To Monday has crafted a sound uniquely their own. They refuse to be confined by a single genre, blending influences from iconic 80s electronic artists like New Order and Dead Can Dance with contemporary acts such as CHVRCHES and Boy Harsher. Yet, despite these influences, Close To Monday creates music that defies easy categorization,
much like the emotions and experiences they explore in their lyrics.
The duo’s success continues to grow, positioning them as a breakthrough act in the global electronic music scene. Their previous singles, including the majestic “Phantom”, the haunting “Stranger”, and the evocative “Leaves”, have solidified their status as artists to watch, both for fans and industry insiders alike.
As Close To Monday embarks on their US tour and releases “Different”, they continue to push the boundaries of electronic music, offering not only captivating tracks but also a powerful message about authenticity in the modern world.