Fyodor Dostoyevski’s The Brothers Karamazov examines reality and free will for humanity. The book inspired London quartet Idle Youth’s latest single, “Disconnect,” a commentary on our heavy reliance on technology and the effect this has on our relationships with the world. The brightly chilled synthpop song draws from the politically-charged new wave of the 80s, with thoughtful lyrics in the vein of Orchestral Manoeuvres In The Dark, Heaven 17, and Blancmange.
“I think it’s fair to say that most people have an unhealthy reliance on technology, and we aren’t any different,” the band muses. “It’s something we are all aware of, yet can’t function in this version of life without it…this song just serves as a reminder that nothing can substitute for felt experience with one another. Always remember that.”
The accompanying video is a montage of familiar mass media, opening with a scene from Paddy Chayefsky’s classic 1976 film Network. The film is about Howard Beale, a depressed newscaster who went rogue, whose poetic and violent outbursts equal a spike in ratings…and the inevitable exploitation of him. The film is notable for its prediction of 24-hour news cycles, propaganda, and the large parade of pundits that dominate the airwaves today, masquerading as “news.” The video intercuts the band performing amidst clips from movies, and American commercials, a commentary on the sway media has upon our free will.
Watch below:
Idle Youth features Kieran on bass, Mick on guitar, Jon on vocals and synths, and Steve on drums, using minimalism, luminism, and Japanese cyberpunk in their overall aesthetic.
“Disconnect” was mastered by legendary engineer Noel Summerville, who mastered Seven Nation Army by the White Stripes, as well as music for Cradle of Filth, Bolt Thrower, and Napalm Death…good company for Idle Youth!
Pre-save the track here or stream below:
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