Today, UK-based Grammy-winning producer and composer Tourist (William Phillips) returns with his new single “Apollo.”
Like much of his music, “Apollo” continues a trend of bittersweet and emotional dance music that makes you think as much as it makes you move. It feels both incredibly introspective and incredibly captivating – like capturing a vulnerable moment between two people. I’ve been a fan of the “sad techno” artist since I heard his song “Tonight” back in 2013. Since then, Tourist has refined his sound and carved out a genre all his own.
The single artwork was shot by acclaimed British photographer Nigel Shafran who has directed a video for the song as well, which will be revealed shortly. “Apollo” follows Tourist’s Wash EP released last October, as well as recent Wolf Alice, Christine & The Queens and Rostam remixes.
Album artwork for the single, “Apollo”
On “Apollo,” Tourist remarked:
“I’m interested in exploring human themes through sound. Family, mental health, loss, love.
I sit at home by myself most days, writing music. It’s quite an insular life, and it can be claustrophobic, but I suppose much of my new music is an attempt to produce work that is outwardly facing. I want my music to connect and to tell a human story through samples, sounds, and melody. I have always found these components of music much more interesting than words/lyrics.
Sonically, much of what has inspired me has been impressionism. I’m not interested in making cold, austere music. I want it to be imbued with romanticism, escapism and equal parts melancholy and optimism.
“Apollo” is a piece of music that hopefully inspires reflection and reverie. I love the idea that music can “take” you to places, and that’s what this is to me when I listen back to it.”
Accompanying the new single is the launch of Tourist Essentials – a curated collection of Tourist’s music dating to 2012. William makes yearning, bittersweet dance tracks, his wide scope and artistry is showcased on the Essentials compilation. He’s considered an “artist’s artist”, with fans such as Flume and Porter Robinson supporting his releases. After the self-titled debut EP (2012), Tonight EP (2013) andPatterns EP (2014) featuring guest appearances by Lianne La Havas and Will Heard, as well as high-profile remixes for Chvrches & Haim under his belt, Tourist went on to win the GRAMMY for co-writing the Sam Smith hit “Stay With Me”, and he released his debut album U (2016) to critical acclaim and support from outlets like NPR, Vice, Billboard and Rolling Stone Australia.
The single, “Run” landed #1 spot on BBC Radio 1 dance charts and Hype Machine. This was soon followed by a string of sold-out shows as a live favorite across the United States, Europe, and Australia, including major festival appearances at Glastonbury, Coachella (twice) and Bestival.
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