“Last month, Islands returned from retirement with a bang to announce their first new album in five years, Islomania (out June 11th). Today, they share the single “Set The Fairlight“. A shining example of Nick Thorburn’s penchant for bright, expertly crafted pop songs that hint at something darker, Set The Fairlight sees him grappling with uncertainty. “This was the last song made for the album, written and recorded during the pandemic,” he explains. “I suppose it’s vaguely about the feeling of anxiety and fear brought on by COVID. There’s separation (by a cemetery wall — grim!), isolation and the desire to reach out and touch someone. None of these themes were calculated or laboured over, though. Like most of my song writing, I kind of let the subconscious take the wheel. I find I get to more interesting places when I’m not trying to steer the metaphors.”
“Set the Fairlight” by Islands From the album Islomania
The Fat Angel Sings 