Following their biggest show to date with Paul Weller at Edinburgh Castle, Brighton’s baroque-alternative-pop duo Barbara returns with their vibrant and infectious new single, ‘Property-Owning Democracy’.
Brothers Henry and John Tydeman, the creative forces behind Barbara, draw from a diverse array of influences, from Glam Pop to Broadway resulting in a glorious, vintage-pop sound. Produced by the acclaimed Paul Steel, recognised for his work with Mika and praised by The Guardian as “The second coming of Brian Wilson”, ‘Property-Owning Democracy’ explores contemporary financial struggles with a exuberant quirky, camp flare, disguising its sarcastic lyrical commentary under a uplifting bright exterior.
Characterised by bright organs, tight shuffling drums, swelling synths, and dappled strings, ‘Property-Owning Democracy’ exudes a pop radiance, perfectly balance the track’s nostalgic undertones. Topped with the vibrant melodic vocals, the single holds a joyous and catchy edge which makes it strikingly commercial whilst retaining an alternative flare. Lyrically, the track highlights the irony of hard work and education in the face of diminishing economic returns. The band explain:
“We know that the cost of living and inflation really aren’t very sexy things to write a pop song about… But we like a challenge! And it seemed to us that given this is an issue so many people have faced in recent years – their money being worth less and struggling to get by no matter how hard they’ve worked or studied or saved or whatever it is – that we thought it would make for a relatable theme for a song. We love songs that tell stories, and so we have tried to do the same thing here; there’s a character in ‘Property-Owning Democracy’ who I think people might recognise, perhaps in themselves or in someone they know. It’s quite a sad story really, about someone who can’t help running out of money in spite of all their hard work.”
As well as touring with Paul Weller, the duo have also appeared with the likes of The Divine Comedy and Haircut One Hundred on tour. Establishing a solid yet growing fanbase, the duo (and live 5 piece, ‘Property-Owning Democracy,’ continues to highlight the songwriting that has seen them acclaimed to date.
Listen below:
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