Hinge matches rarely end in pop perfection, yet Los Angeles duo After have turned an awkward first date into one of indie-pop’s most exciting developments. Formed in 2023 when Justine Dorsey and Graham Epstein realised they worked far better as creative partners than romantic partners, the pair have swiftly built a distinct identity. Now, they are ready to step into the spotlight with their anticipated debut album, 'Fell Asleep in the Sun', arriving on 18th September via Mom + Pop Music.
Accompanying the record’s reveal is their captivating new single, 'Take Me to Sunrise', alongside a striking music video. Arriving shortly after May’s single 'Promise (When You Go)', the track marries Dorsey’s soaring vocals with shimmering production. The visual sets the pair’s reflective lyrics against a bleak, dystopian landscape, visually capturing their longing for bygone days.
'Fell Asleep in the Sun' serves as a candid snapshot of where After stand today. The LP explores themes of impermanence, personal growth, and preserving memory in a fast-moving world. Across its tracklist, the pair assemble a delicate patchwork of lived experiences, balancing emotional vulnerability with polished songwriting.
Their rise has been remarkably rapid. Following early attention from Rolling Stone for singles like 'Obvious' and '300 Dreams', After dropped their self-titled debut EP in April last year. A second EP followed on Mom + Pop Music, spawning 'Outbound', which earned a spot on Zane Lowe’s 26 for ‘26 selection. Between securing a high-profile Gap campaign and landing features in Apple adverts, the duo have proven their knack for crafting earworms that seamlessly blend genres. As The FADER famously noted, their signature sound mixes "moody drum and bass, grungy guitars, and shadowy trip-hop amid the bright mall-pop chords and flourishes."
You can stream 'Take Me to Sunrise' right now on all major music platforms and pre-save 'Fell Asleep in the Sun' ahead of its autumn arrival. Make sure to follow After across Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube to stay updated on tour dates and upcoming releases.
