Aquilo (band)
Aquilo is an English electronic music duo from Silverdale, Lancashire, England, consisting of Tom Higham and Ben Fletcher. They are known for their atmospheric and melancholic sound, blending elements of ambient, electronica, and indie pop.
History:
Higham and Fletcher met as children and began writing music together in 2012. They initially uploaded their tracks anonymously to SoundCloud, gaining a following through online platforms. In 2013, they officially adopted the name Aquilo.
Their early releases, including the EPs "Aquilo," "Human," and "Calling Me," garnered critical acclaim and helped them establish a strong online presence. These EPs showcased their signature sound, characterized by layered vocals, ethereal synths, and emotionally resonant lyrics.
Aquilo signed with Island Records and released their debut album, Silhouettes, in 2017. The album further explored their introspective themes and refined their production style.
In 2019, they released their second album, ii. This album saw them experimenting with slightly different sonic textures while maintaining their core aesthetic.
Musical Style and Influences:
Aquilo's music is often described as cinematic and evocative. They draw influences from a range of artists, including Bon Iver, Sigur Rós, and James Blake. Their songs often explore themes of love, loss, and isolation. They are characterized by their use of layered vocals, atmospheric synths, and delicate instrumentation.
Discography:
- Aquilo (EP, 2013)
- Human (EP, 2014)
- Calling Me (EP, 2015)
- Silhouettes (Album, 2017)
- ii (Album, 2019)