Iglu and Hartly burst onto the music scene in 2009 with a vibrant, infectious sound that captured the spirit of the era’s electropop wave. Known for their upbeat anthems and charismatic performances, the band quickly gained recognition, especially in the UK, where their single “In This City” soared to number five on the charts.
Fronted by Jarvis Anderson, whose charismatic stage presence and signature long hair made him an unforgettable figure, the band was often seen as the cheerful cousins of contemporaries like Gorillaz and MGMT. Their music—synth-heavy, emotionally resonant, and brimming with optimism—offered a refreshing take on the genre.
Despite early hits and prominent festival appearances at Isle of Wight and Coachella, Iglu and Hartly’s momentum slowed after their debut album, with plans for a second album never coming to fruition. The band members eventually pursued different paths, with Jarvis moving into production and others forming new projects like Youngblood Hawke.
READ MORE: Peter Andre Issues Forceful Statement Against Katie Price: ‘This Ends Today’
READ MORE: Archie Vaughan’s Career-Best 95 Leads Somerset to Victory Over Yorkshire
Their song “In This City” remains their defining anthem, capturing the bittersweet emotions of chasing dreams while leaving home behind. Anderson reflects on the song’s message of growth and change: “You can’t just go back home because you’re different — that’s life. But that’s beautiful because it means you have the chance to get better.”
Now, more than 15 years later, Iglu and Hartly have reassembled with fresh faces to launch a new UK tour, starting at The Exchange in Bristol on August 16. This comeback follows a brief reunion in 2019 interrupted by the pandemic, and strong encouragement from new member Chris Bourne.
Their recent EPs, including 2023’s Money and 2024’s Playboys of the Western World, showcase a matured sound while retaining the joyful energy that made them beloved. The track “Swayze,” a sun-soaked, festival-ready anthem, has already earned significant streaming success.
Anderson describes the band’s goal vividly: “I want people to be joyous when they listen to our music. I want them to feel this communal energy connecting them together.”
The band faces a transformed musical landscape dominated by streaming and social media metrics rather than traditional radio and TV exposure. Their publicist acknowledges the challenge: “Bands that found fame pre-Spotify often struggle with visibility today… but the UK remains a crucial stronghold for their fans and identity.”
Jarvis expresses affection for the UK’s culture and cuisine, even crediting new bandmate Chris Bourne with introducing him to British staples like Sunday roast, with afternoon tea still on his to-do list.
Fans eager for a second album will be heartened to hear Jarvis is working toward that goal, though he hints there will be a few more EPs before then. The new single “Big Break,” releasing August 15, leans toward a guitar-infused sound while keeping the classic Iglu and Hartly blend of joy and nostalgia.
For those longing to experience their kaleidoscopic electropop live, the upcoming UK tour promises a burst of nostalgic sunshine with a fresh twist.