Howard and Guy Lawrence, of popular electropop outfit Disclosure, are children of the Internet; but even though they are only 18 and 21 years old respectively, I would hesitate before calling these two “kids.” Disclosure has reached a level of success that many artists only dream of — and they’re showing signs of getting bigger, fast.
The Lawrence brothers have created a name for themselves as one of the most exciting young groups coming out of the UK — with recent singles receiving well over a million SoundCloud hits and invitations to play at both Coachella and Ultra Music Festival, some of the biggest festivals in the world.
However, the ability to play in front of their fans is sometimes hindered by their young age. Although Disclosure’s youth sometimes overshadows their musical talent, they are quickly proving themselves as astute performers all the same. Disclosure’s live performances reach beyond simply tapping play on their laptop keyboards and monitoring their monitors. While the prerecorded productions handle the bulk of the work, the brothers also busy themselves on stage with an array of percussion and bass instrumentation.
When considering their age, Disclosure’s success seems a testament to the state of the shifting Internet music industry, which is gradually allowing up-and-coming artists to make a legitimate mark within their respective genres.
Disclosure’s aesthetic has developed considerably as their listening habits change. Their sound has moved from moody, ethereal styles (akin to Burial), to the blissful euphoria which marked the flourish of 2-step and UK Garage — evidenced by their recent EP, The Face, as well as their stunning single “Latch.” Disclosure’s tracks — while catchy on their own — are often structured around strong vocal support from artists like Jessie Ware, Ria Ritchie and AlunaGeorge which keep their songs focused and approachable.
Mixing live performance with pop-influenced dance music, come Wednesday, Disclosure will prove just how talented they are.
Disclosure plays at 9 pm Wednesday, April 17 at the WOW Hall. Tickets are $12 in advance and $14 at the door.