Dark-pop twins Ardyn explore poppier side on "Help Me On My Way", produced by XL's Rodaidh McDonald

29 October 2015, 09:45 | Written by Charlotte Krol

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(Ardyn)

Gloucestershire siblings Rob and Katy Pearson dropped a fine debut in "Universe" last month. Its wiry textures and creeping folk-pop sentiments recalled much of Marika Hackman's emotive music whilst being something of their own. We were instantly head over heels.

New track "Help Me On My Way" is a brighter, poppier affair, undercut with urgent percussion and vocalist Katy spitting “Nothing’s gonna fix my broken heart” with palpable angst over crystal glockenspiels and darting guitar lines.

Where "Universe" builds to an almost cinematic climax, "Help Me On My Way" hits an earlier, more powerful pleasure point that perhaps sees guidance from XL's go-to producer Rodaidh McDonald (The xx, Sampha, King Krule). He produced both their stunning debut and this equally enticing new cut.

"Help Me On My Way" appears on Universe EP, released on limited edition 10” vinyl and digitally via National Anthem on 13 November (Digital pre-order/Vinyl pre-order.) Ardyn also headline Lansdown Hall, Stroud on 20 November.