Single: "Sweet Success" – Out 8 January
Album: Faux Animaux – Out 24 January
Live: London Album Launch at The Grace – 25 January
Scottish Album Launch Dates in February
Pre-order Faux Animaux: Click here
Described as “a cocktail of Ian Banks and Jane Austen” by BBC 6 Music’s Steve Lamacq and praised as “melodic, captivating, and beautiful” by Bad Tattoo, North London alt-indie duo Blue Violet—comprised of vocalist Sarah McGrigor and guitarist Sam Gotley—are on the cusp of something extraordinary.
Following their 20-date UK tour with Echobelly, the duo returns with Sweet Success, the latest single from their highly anticipated album Faux Animaux, set for release on 24 January through Me & My Records via High Head Recordings. The pair will celebrate with a sold-out show at London’s The Grace on 25 January, followed by three exclusive performances in Scotland this February.
The Story Behind "Sweet Success"
Sweet Success is an exploration of ambition and the sacrifices made in pursuit of it. The duo describes the track as a reflection on "the price we pay for striving for dizzying heights" in a hyper-competitive world. The robotic "sess, sess, sess" sample underscores a sense of mindless conformity, urging listeners to question the relentless pursuit of success and its true impact on happiness.
A Sonic Journey with Faux Animaux
Blue Violet's forthcoming album Faux Animaux channels inspiration from artists such as Anna Calvi, St. Vincent, and Bowie. Recorded at Bristol’s J&J Studios with producer TJ Allen (Bat For Lashes, Hannah Peel), the album seamlessly merges cinematic soundscapes with modern alt-pop sensibilities. Thematically, it critiques societal failings and the influence of leaders who steer humanity away from its natural instincts.
Sam elaborates, “The fake animals could be seen as the powers that be, leading us down paths that make us ignore our instincts, often without our consent.”
A Year of Creative Flourishes
2024 saw the duo release a string of compelling singles, each showcasing a unique facet of their artistry. Highlights include:
Boogie Shoes – A glam-infused stomp reminiscent of Queens of the Stone Age.
Imagine Me – A dark electro-rock ode to seduction and fleeting intimacy.
Survival – A gentle yet haunting piece drawing comparisons to Mazzy Star and Cigarettes After Sex.
Barefoot On The Seine – A Parisian tale that juxtaposes grunge-rock choruses with graceful romance.
Fire – A fiery track celebrating raw human desire.
Tracklist for Faux Animaux
Sweet Success
Imagine Me
Survival
Talking to You
The Librarian
Cold Hearts
Boogie Shoes
Fire
Teeth Out
Barefoot on the Seine
Faux Animaux
Tour Dates
25 January – London, The Grace (SOLD OUT)
5 February – Edinburgh, Sneaky Pete’s
6 February – Glasgow, King Tut’s
7 February – Dundee, Beat Generator
Tickets available here: Click here
Don’t miss Blue Violet’s rise as one of the most exciting alt-indie acts of the moment. A stunning blend of modernism, melody, and meaning awaits.
