Words by Maddy Howell
Watford’s Gold Key have unveiled a new video for their current single Mechanical World. Demonstrating a new side to the quartet’s expansive sound, the track is the first offering from Gold Key since last year’s debut album 'Hello, Phantom'. Focusing on technology’s ability to isolate, guitarist and vocalist Laurent Barnard explains, “We depend on technology to fulfill our idea of perfection. Playing god is destined to lead to failure and we wanted to demonstrate that in our video.”
"It's a song about feeling suffocated by the world, not being able to shut off from the technology we simultaneously rely on. It's easy to moan about the evils of social media whilst being totally addicted to it. Nearly all of us have created our own artificial world - an alternate reality where we constantly look successful and happy through the photos we have chosen to share with the world."
With an already established position in Watford’s DIY music scene, Steve had known guitarist Laurent for a number of years after having produced records for his punk band, Gallows. However, it wasn’t until 2016 that the duo decided to sit down and begin the writing process together, with an ultimate goal to push the boundaries of their own careers. It wasn’t long before the band's line-up was complete, with the addition of drummer Jack Kenny (Nervus / Blackhole) and James Leach (Sikth) on bass.
However, Gold Key bear very little similarity to their other projects, having blossomed into a space where the musicians embrace experimentation and revel in the unexpected. “I’ve never wanted to be a stagnant musician”, explains Steve, “We’re constantly trying to push ourselves out of the comfort zone, whether that’s through learning to play the mandolin or using furniture for percussion”.
2017’s remarkably ambitious debut album 'Hello, Phantom' is quintessential in understanding the free spirit of Gold Key, garnering praise from rock press across the board, alongside BBC Radio 1’s Daniel P. Carter and Kerrang! Radio’s Alex Baker.
'Hello, Phantom' set into motion an endless cycle of live opportunities for Gold Key, including tours alongside Arcane Roots and Grave Pleasures. Having recently played the prestigious Download Festival, as well as supporting Alexisonfire and Cancer Bats at a sold out Brixton Academy, Gold Key will next take to the stage at Cheltenham's 2000 Trees festival, followed by a UK tour with Black Peaks this October.
Catch Gold Key live at the dates below.
July
12-14 2000 Trees, Cheltenham
31 Wilkestock Festival, Stevenage
October
13 The Cluny, Newcastle
14 Tuts, Glasgow
16 Key Club, Leeds
17 Academy 3, Manchester
18 Hare & Hounds, Birmingham
19 Camden Underworld, London
21 Forty-Two, Worthing
Gold Key socials: