For a band whose music so often celebrates the beauty in life’s most challenging moments, even Flawes have had their patience tested in 2020. The dynamic electronic pop trio started the year on a high by fulfilling a life-long ambition with the release of their debut album ‘Highlights’. But events would mean that their big plans for the rest of the year were dashed.
While ‘Holding Out For The Win’ emerged in testing circumstances, you wouldn’t guess it. Flawes instead sound emboldened, their irrepressible live energy feeding into exhilarating alt-pop invigorated by retro synths. It’s a track resolutely in tune with 2020, but with a ‘80s undercurrent. That’s further reflected with Freddie Edwards’ guitar work, which aimed to translate the stirring sax found in some of Springsteen’s classics to his own instrument.
“‘Holding Out For The Win’ is about that split second in a relationship when you realise: this is something special,” says frontman JC Carruthers. “It’s based at the start of a relationship and it documents the moment of falling in love with someone and realising there’s something to be lost here. It’s the realisation: I need to make this work.”
The song’s future-retro ambience also inspires its official video. Freddie and drummer Josh ‘Huss’ Hussey get stuck into a session of old school gaming thrills – but where’s JC? Watch HERE.
‘Holding Out For The Win’ introduces the ‘Reverie’ EP, which is the band’s strongest music to date. Featuring producers including Toby Scott (Gorgon City, Pet Shop Boys), it’s uplifting and inventive pop that offers escapism as a welcome respite in a year when reality’s been a lot to handle.
“We have a very positive attitude in Flawes and when I’m writing lyrics I’ll always go towards positive themes, trying to find a positive in any situation,” JC says. “That’s where all three of us feel most comfortable. We don’t want to live in a sad place. Flawes is all about finding light in a difficult world.”
https://open.spotify.com/album/38bDfPQruNBpMz8egyOmld