Victorious Preview: Years & Years

Infectious synth beats, euphoric choruses and one hell of a vocal – on paper, Years & Years could be the perfect festival act. And if the London-born trio’s latest album, Palo Santo, is anything to go by, I’m willing to bet their set at this summer’s Victorious Festival is going to be pretty special.

Years & Years are due to play their first ever Portsmouth-based gig at the three-day entertainment extravaganza, appearing on the Sunday bill just before festival closers, The Prodigy. It’s a great slot, and one the band should relish, as the crowd gear up to see the biggest Victorious yet go out with a bang.

Since making their mark on the UK dance and electro scene in 2014, Years & Years have gained a growing following and a string of top ten hits, culminating in their first number one single; King in March 2015.

Palo Santo follows up their 2015 debut album Communion, taking their distinctive 80s/90s electro/RnB sound and running with it. It’s big, bright and bold, with lots of uplifting lyrics and fresh dance beats, ideal for summer festival set. While catchy enough to earn plenty of airplay, all of the band’s songs to date have felt more refined that your standard chart fare, and fans in the crowd will no doubt be looking forward to hearing past hits like Shine and Desire, as well as more recent releases like If You’re Over Me.

Years & Years consists of bassist Mikey, synth whizz Emre and frontman Olly Alexander, whose soaring, soulful vocals really take centre stage on Palo Santo. He’s always sounded good, but new tracks like Hypnotised, Preacher or current single, All For You, really demonstrate what he can do. Olly’s voice is nothing short of gorgeous, and I can’t wait to hear him show off his vocal talents live.

Because when it comes to performances, fans rave about seeing Years & Years in the flesh, lauding their energy, passion and presence. Capable of creating a real party atmosphere, let’s hope the boys bring their A-game to Victorious.