Wigan-based music makers Apostles are back with their latest release, the soaring indie single ‘Sixteen’.
Formed just a couple years ago, the five-piece had a strong start with a bunch of songs including ‘Waste a Moment’, ‘Abide’ and ‘Goldrush’ all coming in 2020. Unfortunately, it wasn’t long before the pandemic did the damage to our beloved live scene in Manchester and beyond – leaving many bands frustrated to move forward with new music.
‘Sixteen’ sees Apostles make a rousing return to our eardrums with a blissfully bright indie-pop offering – reminiscent of that genre’s particular peak era in the early-mid 00s. In truth, this dead-on three-minute tune wouldn’t feel out of place soundtracking an episode of Gavin & Stacey and the like.
An opening fuzzy guitar sequence leads into a beat-heavy, thundering rhythm section of drums and bassline that holds throughout the track. What follows is an almost tumbling lead guitar melody with which George Lyons’ vocals replicate in their delivery.
Described by the band as “reminiscing over good times with someone when you’re going through a tough patch with that very same person”, the lyrics are sentimental and nostalgic as we wonder what could’ve been thinking back on sunnier days. And of course, there’s a catchy sing-a-long chorus.
“Hold me like we’re still sixteen / Living in our dreams”
Lyons’ voice retains a smooth and honeyed sound, with that little bit of indie-rock grit making an appearance in places. It’s easy-listening, warm and familiar. Perhaps a bit of a throwback, but while on the same vein as the posse’s previous releases – ‘Sixteen’ feels that much more confident with an established swagger to its execution.