Born from the artistic synergy of Melbourne-based multi-instrumentalists Simon Lam and Hamish Mitchell, Armlock emerged as a captivating musical project that ventured beyond boundaries. Their journey, marked by artistic exploration and recognition, took flight with the release of their new single, “April,” a harbinger of their forthcoming debut album, Trust. This album, a poignant testament to their musical prowess, was set to grace the world via Solitaire Recordings on June 25, 2021, after securing a partnership with Spunk Records for the Australian release.
Before Armlock, the dynamic duo had already etched their names in the music industry. Lam and Mitchell, having previously collaborated as two-thirds of the electronic outfit I’lls, garnered critical acclaim likening them to luminaries like Portishead, Four Tet, and Radiohead, earning nods from notable voices including Pitchfork. Their electronic explorations set the stage for what was to come.
Lam’s artistic journey continued to unfold as he embarked on a new path, forming the mesmerizing Kllo alongside his cousin. This venture proved to be a significant milestone, amassing a staggering 100 million streams and receiving accolades from esteemed platforms like GQ, Stereogum, NME, Pitchfork, The Guardian, and NYLON. The artistry didn’t stop there; Lam, following his creative instincts, embarked on a Stereogum-backed solo project known as Nearly Oratorio, further showcasing his diverse capabilities.
The inception of Armlock, however, was the culmination of their individual experiences and talents. Their music, a finely woven tapestry of emotions and sonic textures, resonated deeply with listeners. “April,” the striking single, took the lead in introducing their debut album, Trust, with an exhilarating rush of sound. Featuring the backing vocals of Juice Webster, the track elegantly combined sputtering electric guitar, pulsating digital nuances, and Lam’s earnest vocals. The song’s lyrics, like a window to their soul, encapsulated themes of personal growth, disillusionment with adulthood, and inner conflicts with striking self-awareness.