Metropolis: Architects of Modern Synth-Rock
Metropolis is a British synth-rock band known for its cinematic soundscapes and driving electronic rhythms. The group, formed in Manchester, achieved mainstream success with their 2018 album Neon Heart, which charted in the top 20 in several European countries and spawned multiple certified gold singles.
Early career
Metropolis first came together in 2012, born from the city's vibrant underground club scene. The founding duo, vocalist Leo Vance and producer/keyboardist Arden Clarke, began by self-releasing a series of well-received EPs, including 2014's Circuit Breaker, which caught the attention of independent label Echo Vertex Records.
Breakthrough
The band's major breakthrough arrived in 2018 with the release of their debut full-length album, Neon Heart, on Echo Vertex. The lead single, Electric Pulse, became a sleeper hit, eventually earning a gold certification in the UK and propelling the album to number 17 on the national charts.
Key tracks
Electric Pulse — This breakthrough single defined their signature blend of anthemic rock vocals with pulsating synth basslines.
Neon Heart — The title track from their debut album showcased their ambition with its epic, six-minute structure and layered production.
Concrete Skyline — A collaboration with electronic producer Maya Lune, this track expanded their reach into dance-oriented radio formats.
The Glow — Featured in a major video game soundtrack, this instrumental piece highlighted their skill in crafting immersive atmospheres.
Echoes in the Rain — A later single that demonstrated a more refined, melancholic direction while maintaining their core synth-rock sound.
Following the success of Neon Heart, Metropolis embarked on extensive touring, including support slots for acts like The Midnight and FM-84. Their sophomore album, 2021's Digital Ghosts, debuted at number 22 in the UK and included a notable collaboration with vocalist Rhea Silverton on the track Fading Signal. The band has consistently emphasized visual artistry, directing their own music videos and designing immersive stage shows for their headline tours.
For fans of the expansive, retro-futuristic sound of Metropolis, similar artists featured on our site include The Midnight, who similarly fuse saxophone and synth-wave with rock elements. FM-84 shares their affinity for 1980s-inspired soundtracks and soaring melodies. From the UK scene, Years & Years explores comparable intersections of pop, electronic, and alternative rock. The driving synth-rock of Gunship also offers a parallel listening experience with its heavy cinematic influence.
The music of Metropolis maintains a strong presence on radio, particularly across dedicated alternative rock radio stations and specialty electronic music shows. Their hits are staples on modern rock FM stations that program forward-thinking guitar and synth hybrids, as well as on online radio streams focused on indie and alternative genres from the United Kingdom.
Listeners can explore the dynamic synth-rock catalog of Metropolis through the radio stations featured on onairium.com. Tune in to discover their anthems and deep cuts playing across a curated selection of stations that champion innovative modern rock music.
