Since L’objectif launched their second EP, We Aren’t Getting Out But Tonight We Might, in the height of summer 2022, the band have turned a page, moving on to a more mature and reflective mindset. The title-of their new EP hints this change in attitude: the left side of the brain is known to control intuition and comprehension. The Left Side is an indie pop EP full of charm and compelling and catchy songwriting.
The creative core of the band from Leeds first formed when Saul Kane (vocals, guitar) and Louis Bullock (drums) first formed a band together at the age of 12 and this new EP shows the band moving in a new direction. Written in Saul’s bedroom, the project is an attempt to sum up the band’s younger years and come of age as a group. Saul summed up the intent behind the EP by saying:
“It’s the closest we have been to knowing what picture we want to paint. It’s another window into the musical space we wish to explore, yet I think we’re closer to having our sound. I think the project signifies the end of a section in our lives, moving out from the haze of the moment and reflecting on our teenage years and all its chaos with more understanding.”
The project is full of indie-pop haze, with melting riffs accompanied by a noisy rhythm section. Lead single ‘Lily of the Valley’ is a meandering summer anthem that will be one to catch on their spring UK tour. In fact, the whole EP feels like it will transform seamlessly into a live set. When I saw the band on their return gig at All Points East in London last summer, their charisma and live sound showed exactly why they are one of the most exciting bands to come out of the Leeds scene in recent years.
The standout on this EP is the addictive songwriting of Saul; L’objectif sure know how to write a catchy chorus. ‘ITSA’, ‘Puppy’ and ‘What A Time To Be Alive’ are all sure to feature in your indie summer playlists.
Whilst the lyrics lean on the reflective side, nothing else about this project hints that L’objectif will be looking backwards in the coming years.
Haiku Review:
Turning a new page
Youthful memories behind
L’objectif evolves
The Left Side is out tomorrow via Chess Club Records. You can pre-save / pre-order it right here. Fancy seeing them live? Find tickets to their upcoming spring UK tour here.
