Empire of the Sun is an Australian electronic music duo formed in 2007. The band is known for their unique sound that blends elements of pop, rock, and electronic music with theatrical and experimental elements. The duo is composed of Luke Steele and Nick Littlemore, who met in 2000 and began collaborating on music several years later.
Their debut album, “Walking on a Dream” was released in 2008 and became an instant hit, with the title track reaching the top of the charts in several countries. The album was praised for its dreamy, ethereal sound and its innovative approach to electronic music. Since then, the duo has released several more albums and have become known for their highly theatrical live shows, featuring elaborate costumes and stage designs.
Empire of the Sun’s music is characterized by soaring melodies, rich harmonies, and a lush, layered production style. Their songs often explore themes of fantasy, escapism, and the power of imagination. Their distinctive sound has earned them a dedicated fanbase around the world and critical acclaim from music critics, who have praised their inventive approach to electronic music and their ability to create music that is both catchy and innovative.
10. Alive (Ice on the Dune, 2013)
“Alive” is a vibrant, anthemic song by Empire of the Sun, the Australian electronic music duo consisting of Luke Steele and Nick Littlemore. The track, which is featured on the album “Ice on the Dune,” is characterized by its pulsing synthesizers, driving percussion, and soaring, uplifting vocals. The lyrics are optimistic and empowering, encouraging the listener to embrace life and live it to the fullest. The song’s chorus, with its repeated refrain of “I’m alive,” is infectious and exhilarating. “Alive” is a triumphant, feel-good song that captures the spirit of youthful exuberance and celebrates the joy of being alive.
9. Swordfish Hotkiss Night (Walking on a Dream, 2008)
“Swordfish Hotkiss Night” is a standout track from Empire of the Sun’s debut album “Walking on a Dream”. The song features an upbeat, danceable rhythm and soaring vocals from frontman Luke Steele. The lyrics are dreamlike and abstract, exploring themes of love and romance with a surreal, poetic sensibility. The song is known for its catchy hook and infectious energy, and has become a fan favorite at the band’s live shows. “Swordfish Hotkiss Night” perfectly captures the band’s unique sound, blending elements of pop, rock, and electronic music into a rich, textured sonic landscape that is both uplifting and mesmerizing.
8. The World (The World, 2009)
“The World” is a dreamy, atmospheric track from Empire of the Sun’s second album, “Ice on the Dune.” The song’s lush production is highlighted by its mesmerizing synth hook and soaring vocals from lead singer Luke Steele. Lyrically, the song speaks to the idea of escapism and the desire to transcend mundane reality. The chorus, “I’m standing on the edge of the world, ready to jump,” captures the feeling of yearning for adventure and the unknown. The song’s dreamy, otherworldly vibe has made it a fan favorite and a staple in the band’s live shows.
7. Delta Bay (Walking on a Dream, 2008)
“Delta Bay” is a dreamy, atmospheric track from Empire of the Sun’s debut album “Walking on a Dream”. The song features ethereal vocals from frontman Luke Steele, set against a lush, synth-driven backdrop. The lyrics evoke a sense of yearning and nostalgia, with Steele singing about a distant memory of a place by the water. The song has a slow, hypnotic quality that draws the listener in and immerses them in its dreamlike world. “Delta Bay” showcases the band’s ability to create evocative, cinematic music that transports the listener to another realm.
6. Country (Walking on a Dream, 2008)
“Country” is a dreamy, atmospheric song by Empire of the Sun, the Australian electronic music duo consisting of Luke Steele and Nick Littlemore. The track, which is featured on their debut album “Walking on a Dream,” is characterized by its ethereal synthesizers, hypnotic rhythms, and Steele’s haunting vocals. The lyrics are enigmatic and poetic, evoking a sense of longing and nostalgia for a lost paradise. The song’s instrumentation and production are rich and layered, creating a lush sonic landscape that transports the listener to another world. “Country” is a captivating, evocative song that showcases Empire of the Sun’s unique sound and artistic vision.
5. Half Mast (Walking on a Dream, 2008)
“Half Mast” is a synth-pop gem from Empire of the Sun’s debut album “Walking on a Dream”. The song features a catchy, upbeat melody and the band’s signature shimmering synths. The lyrics, sung by frontman Luke Steele, convey a sense of longing and vulnerability, with Steele asking his lover to “raise the mast and set sail”. The song’s infectious energy is hard to resist, and it quickly became one of the band’s most popular tracks. “Half Mast” is a perfect example of Empire of the Sun’s ability to blend catchy pop hooks with atmospheric, otherworldly elements.
4. On Our Way Home (On Our Way Home, 2017)
“On Our Way Home” is a mellow, introspective song by Empire of the Sun, the Australian electronic music duo consisting of Luke Steele and Nick Littlemore. The track, which is featured on their 2017 EP of the same name, is characterized by its minimalist production, sparse instrumentation, and Steele’s soulful vocals. The lyrics are introspective and contemplative, exploring themes of self-discovery and personal growth. The song’s gentle, melancholic melody and emotive vocals create a sense of introspection and introspective mood that resonates with the listener. “On Our Way Home” is a poignant and evocative song that captures the complexity and beauty of the human experience.
3. Standing On the Shore (Walking on a Dream, 2008)
“Standing on the Shore” is a euphoric, synth-pop anthem by Empire of the Sun, the Australian electronic music duo consisting of Luke Steele and Nick Littlemore. The track, which is featured on their debut album “Walking on a Dream,” is characterized by its pulsing rhythms, soaring synths, and Steele’s passionate vocals. The lyrics are uplifting and optimistic, urging the listener to overcome their fears and seize the moment. The song’s anthemic chorus and infectious melody make it an instant crowd-pleaser, and its high-energy production and electrifying live performances have made it a fan favorite. “Standing on the Shore” is a vibrant and uplifting song that captures the spirit of adventure and encourages the listener to embrace life to the fullest.
2. We Are the People (Walking on a Dream, 2008)
“We Are the People” is a standout track from Empire of the Sun’s debut album “Walking on a Dream”. The song features an uplifting, anthemic chorus and a driving beat, along with the band’s signature soaring vocals and dreamy synths. The lyrics are a celebration of humanity, with the chorus declaring “we are the people that rule the world”. The song’s message of unity and hope, combined with its catchy melody and danceable rhythm, has made it a fan favorite and a staple of the band’s live shows. “We Are the People” is a shining example of Empire of the Sun’s ability to craft irresistible, feel-good pop songs with a message.
1. Walking On a Dream (Walking on a Dream, 2008)
“Walking On a Dream” is a hit song by the Australian electronic music duo Empire of the Sun, released in 2008 as the lead single from their debut album of the same name. The song features a unique blend of dreamy pop melodies and electronic beats, layered with the distinctive vocals of lead singer Luke Steele. The song’s catchy chorus and upbeat rhythm have made it a popular anthem for fans of indie pop and electronic dance music alike, and it has been covered and remixed by a number of artists. The song’s accompanying music video, which features the band members dressed in elaborate costumes and performing in a surreal landscape, has also become a fan favorite.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
