Autoheart's New Album imbues Hope as an Imagined Queer Refuge

Crafting an Imagined Queer Refuge

The London-based trio Autoheart, comprised of guitarist Barney JC, keyboardist Simon Neilson, and singer Jody Gadsden, has experienced a unique musical journey. With their latest album, Heartlands, the band aims to create a space that resonates with LGBTQIA+ audiences, shaping a narrative that combines the struggles and triumphs of being part of a marginalized community. The band describes Heartlands as an "imagined queer refuge," a sanctuary built from the warmth of their music that provides solace and joy to those who often feel outcast.

From Rejection to Resilience: The Road to Heartlands

It wasn’t always easy for Autoheart. After releasing their debut album Punch in 2013, the initial response was tepid, with industry feedback teetering on harsh criticism. “We experienced crickets,” JC remarks, recalling the dissolution of two band members and the struggles of navigating a tough London music scene. But instead of surrendering to despair, the duo pressed forward, driven by their passion for music and a need for connection. “We may not have been liked initially, but we didn’t care—we just had to make music,” JC notes, an attitude that fueled their growth.

The Power of Community Connection

A significant turning point for Autoheart came when they began receiving heartfelt messages from fans, illustrating the positive impact their music had. One memorable email involved a student podcasting about Autoheart’s influence in their life. “It was incredibly powerful to know we were connecting with people, especially when we had felt so isolated,” JC shared. As their streaming numbers began to rise, allowing them to witness the organic growth of their fan base, the band realized the vital role their supporters played in their resurgence.

Heartlands: A Celebration of Identity and Joy

As they embarked on a U.S. tour that reignited their love for performing, the band was motivated to create Heartlands, an album distinguished by its mix of euphoric pop sounds and emotional depth. The songs, including vibrant anthems like “Baby Bird” and “Say That,” not only clamor for dance floors but also express vulnerable storytelling. “We wanted to explore heavy emotional terrain—grief, longing, identity—but wrap it in something glittery and danceable,” Neilson explains. This juxtaposition of joy and struggle encapsulates the heart of Autoheart's ethos, aiming to resonate with listeners who find themselves grappling with their own identities.

The Departure from Conventional Discourse

Music serves as a powerful medium in Autoheart’s narrative, offering a voice to those feeling marginalized. JC emphasizes the collective journey often faced by LGBTQIA+ individuals: “We were never picked first; we were the underdogs. We want to inspire others to find pride in who they are.” This sentiment rings especially true given the current cultural climate where being authentically oneself can come with significant challenges. Autoheart cordially welcomes all to their concerts, which serve not just as performances but as spaces of liberation, acceptance, and communal resilience.

Looking Ahead: A Bright Future for Autoheart

With their recent successes, including sold-out shows across the U.S. and an energetic fan base dubbed the “Heartheads,” the future looks promising. The band prepares for an expansive 36-date North American tour, detailing plans to further explore their musical range and deepen connections with their fans. JC urges potential concert-goers to embrace the unique experience their performances offer, echoing the album's fervent message: “We owe it to each other to keep being ourselves.”

As Autoheart gears up for their next show at Mahall's 20 Lanes in Lakewood on December 8, fans will witness an evolution of what their sound and concept can accomplish—delivering uplifting moments especially arranged for the underrepresented. Join them at this concert, and become part of a community that celebrates individuality, creativity, and pride.