Single Review: You Me at Six- ‘Lived a Lie’ (03/09/2013- Virgin Records)

You Me at Six have basked in commercial success over the last few years, thanks to their last three albums, including their most recent record ‘Sinners Never Sleep’ (2011) and left fans hungry after a hefty two year gap in music releases. After holding their final gig off the back of ‘Sinners Never Sleep, ‘Final Night of Sin’ at the world famous Wembley Arena in December last year, the band announced the name of their new album, ‘Cavalier Youth’ and gave fans the first listen of single ‘Lived a Lie’ on BBC Radio 1 with Zane Lowe on 2^nd September. The Aussie DJ also named the track his Hottest Record.

‘Lived a Lie’ is fans' first glimpse at what the boys have been working on in LA over the last few months- and it’s just as gritty, progressive and catchy as ever. However, the music video leads a lot to be desired as its follows the same formula as many of the band’s other videos by embracing far too much performance and not enough storyline. But sixers have proved once again that they’re all about the music and definitely love what they hear, as they’ve already landed ‘Lived a Lie’ the number two spot on the Official ITunes Singles Chart.

'Lived a Lie': Artwork

If that wasn’t good enough, You Me at Six are also set to embark on their first ever US headline tour at the end of the month with support from the likes of Dinosaur Pile Up and Cute is what we Aim For. They’ll also be sharing the stage with 30 Seconds to Mars as part of their European tour in October and November this year in Germany and Spain. So it’s clear the quintet what to return with a colossal bang. Frontman and lead vocalist Josh Franceshi’s credible voice and unique vocals make the track sparkle.

The chunky guitar riff at the beginning of ‘Lived a Lie’ proves that the boys have grasped the tricky balance between evolving musically and giving fans what they’re after. The chorus is emotionally epic and gives the listener an immediate taste of what they can expect from future live shows. Melodically, it’s not only punchy, but also proves that You Me at Six have reverted back to their original ‘Take off Your Colours’ roots a tad. The gang vocal style section is also perfect for gigs.

The Weybridge boys just seem to keep getting better and better. They make use of classic Pop Rock riffs, their signature cyclic rhythms and Franceshi’s grainy vocals and genuine lyrics.

4/5