Dublin’s electronic duo, Long Island Sound, are back with a hot new track from their upcoming album HYDRA, and it’s every bit as rousing as you’d expect. Rob Roche and Tim Nolan have made a name for themselves in the underground scene with their signature blend of shiny synths, spaced-out kicks, and a vibrant undercurrent that translates between euphoria and melancholy. They’ve honed their craft over a decade, and their latest single, “Terra Nova,” licks the surface of what’s to come.
“Terra Nova” is true to its name, which means “New Land,” the track feels like the discovery of uncharted territory. The pair’s love for breakbeats is unmatched, with a rhythm that’s both driving and spacious. The breaks are layered beneath a tapestry of lush, atmospheric pads, creating a sound that feels expansive yet intimate. It’s this balance between the dynamic and the energetic that has always set Long Island Sound apart, and “Terra Nova” is another one for that roaster.
This single is a step-by-step guide on how to build a mood. It starts with a contemplative tone, slowly pulling you in with its thoughtful tones before the rhythm takes over. It’s the kind of track that makes you want to close your eyes and lose yourself on the dancefloor, only to find yourself again in a different place entirely by the end. The emotional depth here is real, and it’s a testament to the duo’s ability to weave complex narratives through their music.
With HYDRA set to release on Seb Wildblood’s label, All My Thoughts, it’s clear that Long Island Sound are stepping up to the game. If “Terra Nova” is any indication, the album will be an impacting venture through peaks of adrenaline and valleys of solitude, with tracks like “Adrenaline” and “Warsaw” promising to continue the narrative of exploration. The duo’s upcoming live shows are also something to watch out for—expect an experience that’s as immersive as their music.
In this current world crowded with electronic acts and everyone becoming a DJ, Long Island Sound continues to represent a distinct underground space for themselves.