Sparse and funky, Wave Machines’ debut single ‘Keep The Lights On’ could be described as “groovy” and “smooth” – words that are in keeping with the lo-fi disco feel of the song. Betraying their indie contemporaries, (sonically at least; the band sounds like an underground 70’s group as opposed to a 80’s synth-obsessed outfit), Wave Machine’s front-man, Tim Bruzon, does pinch his vocals from current sources. Starting off in the style of a marginally less bored Calvin Harris, he later morphs into Jake Shears at the chorus and continues to flit between the two voices for the remaining 2½ minutes. Though ‘Keep The Lights On’ is undoubtedly groovy, it is almost too mellow for it to be noticed on commercial radio. Those who pay attention, however, will realise that this is a well-crafted and understated song.
