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Photo credit: Victoria Kozbanis

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Photo credit: Victoria Kozbanis

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“someone worth paying attention to.” – PILERATS

“an impressive debut that places the Australian producer somewhere between the unmistakable sound of electronic stalwarts Daft Punk and Jungle’s groovy indie-pop.” – THE LINE OF BEST FIT 

“Late to the party with this one. But fashionably late. It’s a good party too.” ★★★★ – RICHARD KINGSMILL, TRIPLE J

“ok deadset one of the best songs I’ve had the privilege of enjoying on this site this year, I cannot wait to hear more. YOU! ARE! AMAZING! 10 stars.” ★★★★★ – LUCY SUGARMAN, TRIPLE J

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AKA Lui announces the arrival of his debut EP, ‘Sapphire Blue’, that graced the airwaves on June 21st. Birthed through instability and adversity, AKA Lui’s journey led him to the serene expanse of Sapphire Beach. Here, against the canvas of the untamed ocean and under the shadow of the South Solitary Lighthouse, ‘Sapphire Blue’ was meticulously crafted, embodying the essence of transience, the merciless beauty of nature, and the universal yearning for connection and love.

This evocative EP employs ocean and coastal imagery as a metaphor to delve into the intricacies of human relationships and isolation. Through a series of compelling tracks, AKA Lui masterfully captures the quest for solace amidst the turbulence of love, life, loneliness and loss.

The EP’s focus track, ‘Midnight Ultimatum’, stands out for its candid storytelling and sonic sophistication. This track explores the complexities of a seemingly casual relationship fraught with unspoken desires and insincerity. AKA Lui captures a poignant moment of realization and acceptance, acknowledging the need to move on, even when it feels hard to let go. Despite being the quickest track to come together, ‘Midnight Ultimatum’ is a testament to AKA Lui’s evolving sonic complexity.

The EP also includes the three previously released singles—‘Kick It’, ‘Lighthouse’ and ‘Fool’ each accompanied by immersive visuals depicting a variety of compelling characters. From the hopeful clown broken by love in ‘Fool’, to the curious sportswear enthusiast in ‘Kick It’, and the charismatic light keeper in ‘Lighthouse’, the journey culminates in ‘Midnight Ultimatum’ where the clown breaks free of his façade in this dramatic visual instalment encapsulating AKA Lui in his final form. This transformation symbolizes the end of a chapter and the possibility that comes with new beginnings.

Sonically, the EP stays true to the pop sensibilities beloved by AKA Lui fans, but also explores new sonic directions with heavy psychedelic jams and wayward arrangements. Recently appearing at Festival of the Stone after an incredible Australian tour with local legends Tora the live show from AKA Lui continues to showcase his versatility as an artist, blending danceable disco tracks with headbanging psychedelic explosions, solidifying his place as a must-see live act.

Sapphire Blue’ is imbued with intimate anecdotes and untold stories from AKA Lui’s time at Sapphire Beach, offering listeners a window into his world. This debut EP, released on June 21, showcases AKA Lui’s artistic evolution and his talent for combining deep, personal narratives with captivating musical landscapes. It’s a release that promises to resonate deeply with fans and new listeners alike.

UPCOMING LIVE DATES:

Thursday 08 August – The Australian Hotel, Ballina, NSW
Thursday 29 August – The Beach Hotel, Byron Bay, NSW
BIGSOUND DATES TBC

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Follow AKA Lui
Instagram – Tik Tok – Spotify

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Photo credit: Victoria Kozbanis

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AMNPLIFY – DB