Yard Arms explore chronic instability while serenading their alter-egos in Adult Swim inspired karaoke video for new single Hollow Ankles
Quick off the back of their latest successful EP release ‘Sanctuary Lines’, Yard Arms are back again with their new single ‘Hollow Ankles’, due for release April 23rd. By far the Bristol-based melancholic pop duo’s most heart-rending and serene track since formation, bursting with alt-90s indie sensibilities and post-emo lyricism set to soundtrack your spring time.
This record is described by frontman and lyricist Noah Villeneuve as “a musing on the chronic instability of life”. The track battles with themes of self worth, weakness and incertitude, all very fitting for the journey of the last twelve months. Recorded, mixed and mastered with Josh Gallop (Phoxjaw) at Stage 2 Studios in Bath, it is clear that their ever developing songwriting style is mirrored in the production of this track too.
Across three minutes you are taken on an emotional voyage showcasing some key Yard Arms influences, reminiscent of The National, Alvvays or Phoebe Bridgers combined with nostalgic hues of James and Echo & The Bunnymen. Hollow Ankles reverb laden pop atmosphere, coupled with Villeneuve’s lyrical emotional depth and heart on sleeve honesty provides a beautifully dark yet romantic world that Yard Arms love to be housed in.
The accompanying music video, inspired by their love of Tim & Eric, David Lynch, dive bars and 80s game show hosts, sees the duo serenade their alter-egos during an awkward yet endearing karaoke session.
We managed to catch up with Yard Arms as they talked about their upcoming single and more!
You’re releasing new single ‘Hollow Ankles’ on 23rd April, are you looking forward to hearing what fans think of it?
We can’t wait for people to get their ears and eyes round it. It’s been a long time in the making so will feel like a real relief to finally have it out.
So how much are you looking forward to releasing the video for ‘Hollow Ankles’?
Again, we’re super excited for fans to see the video, it’s also our debut music vid so we had to make sure it was extra special and impactful.
The video is Adult Swim inspired with some awesome karaoke featured, what was the idea behind this?
The idea was inspired by really tacky karaoke dive bars, 80s game show hosts and old Tim & Eric sketches. Since making it we’ve also realised there’s a sort of nod to Tenacious D in there too!
Can you tell us something about the single no one else knows?
It was written in under an hour.
Will you be releasing an EP/Album this year?
Maybe… You’ll have to be patient!
Is it likely you will be touring at all this year if everything goes to plan?
Nothing too extensive this year, there’s a short list of dates in the diary and if we’re able to do those we’ll be thankful.
How tough has it been in lockdown over the last year and did you ever lose motivation as a band?
Everyone’s situation has been tough. I think everyone at some point during this past year has had to take a good hard look at what they’re trying to achieve and question everything. There’s no doubt that motivation hit an all time low numerous times.
Hollow Ankles is released April 23rd and will be available on all major platforms.