When quiet became the new loud last year, independent band inLove put out their charming debut EP, Dermitint. A delicate fusion of acoustic pop and folk-style rhythms, it attracted critics and fans with its tender lullabies and subtle musical nuances. Today, inLove release their debut album, Realm - and their sound might take a few by surprise.
'This material is totally different from what we've done before,' says guitarist Dickie Wong Ka-yun. 'I think listeners who know us already will see a different side to inLove. There's more of a band sound with this one and a rock edge. There are also classical influences.'
Fellow guitarist Daniel Shum Tsz-lok agrees. 'Some people may think we've changed, though this is just representative of what we as a band sound like at this time. We'll always be changing and evolving.'
The title Realm reflects the album's theme of adventure, says singer Lu Shum Lo-lo (no relation to Daniel). 'We believe adventure is an important aspect of life. If we don't dare take risks and be adventurous, then we can't see and experience new things. Adventure takes us to a new world - a new realm.'
People are looking for something in life, and not just musically, Wong says. 'We hope each listener gets something from our songs.'
Everyone has dreams, Lu Shum says. 'But the world often tries to tell us to forget them. I want this album to remind people to never give up on their dreams.'