Empire of the Sun: The Psychedelic Pop Visionaries

Empire of the Sun is an Australian electronic pop duo known for their extravagant visuals and lush, synth-driven soundscapes. Formed in 2007 by Luke Steele of The Sleepy Jackson and Nick Littlemore of Pnau, the group achieved global success with their multi-platinum debut album, Walking on a Dream.

Early career

The project emerged from a chance meeting between the two established Australian musicians in 2007. Luke Steele, known for his indie rock work, and Nick Littlemore, a prolific electronic producer, began collaborating remotely, fusing Steele's melodic sensibilities with Littlemore's electronic production.

They signed with the EMI-affiliated label Capitol Records in Australia. Their ambitious concept involved creating a complete audiovisual package, building a mythology around the band that was as important as the music itself.

Breakthrough

The duo's breakthrough came in 2008 with the release of their debut single and album, both titled Walking on a Dream. The album peaked at number six on the Australian Albums Chart and was eventually certified six times platinum in their home country.

Its international success was fueled by the title track's infectious melody and the duo's striking, otherworldly music videos and stage costumes. The album's longevity was remarkable, charting in various territories for years after its initial release.

Key tracks

Walking on a Dream — The Grammy-nominated title track became a global hit, defining their shimmering, optimistic sound and receiving heavy rotation on alternative radio.

We Are the People — This anthemic single further cemented their popularity, featuring on numerous film and television soundtracks and becoming a festival staple.

Alive — The lead single from their second album showcased a more muscular, dance-oriented sound and became a top ten hit in Australia.

High and Low — This track from their 2016 album Two Vines exemplified their continued evolution, blending classic pop structures with modern electronic production.

The duo's second album, Ice on the Dune, arrived in 2013 and debuted at number one in Australia. It was followed by Two Vines in 2016, which incorporated more organic instrumentation while maintaining their signature dream-pop aesthetic. Their live performances are renowned for elaborate theatricality, featuring intricate costumes and choreography that bring their fantastical album art to life.

Fans of Empire of the Sun's vibrant synth-pop and theatrical presentation may also enjoy The Presets. This Australian duo shares a knack for combining electronic beats with catchy, anthemic hooks. Another key influence is MGMT, whose psychedelic pop explorations and surreal visuals run parallel. For a similar blend of dance music and pop grandeur, explore Passion Pit. The lush, cinematic soundscapes of M83 also offer a comparable sense of scale and emotion.

Empire of the Sun's music maintains a strong presence on modern rock and alternative radio stations, particularly on formats that embrace electronic-influenced pop. Their hits are staples on online radio streams dedicated to 2000s indie electronica and are frequently featured on independent music radio stations seeking vibrant, upbeat playlists.

Listeners can discover the expansive discography of Empire of the Sun through the various radio stations available on onairium.com, where their iconic tracks are regularly featured in rotation alongside other pioneering electronic pop acts.