ALUNAGEORGE are the future of electronic music. A bold statement no doubt, but the British duo seamlessly blend electrifying polyrhythmic beats and soulful R&B hooks that feature the likes of dancehall king Popcaan and the golden boy of electropop production, Flume. Aluna Francis has been described as having a “sugar sweet” voice and a personality to match, and while the former may be true, don’t get it twisted; the one half of the electronic duo exudes a sharp attitude and Beyoncé-caliber wit that shines through on their anticipated sophomore album I Remember.

The follow-up to 2013’s Body Music has seen Francis step up and take over the spotlight as the face of the group, using her collection of sassy tracks to speak on emotional and difficult “coming-of-age” moments. On songs like “My Blood”, Francis distinguishes that speaking out isn’t always easy but that it is worth it: “I think it is difficult, but it’s a beautiful challenge”, she explains. “I really wrote some songs that could actually help me to find my voice, create my boundaries, and make my statements, and feel good about those.”

The difference in Francis’ message is she leaves it open to interpretation, letting her listeners play a game of fill in the blank(s) with their own thoughts and opinions. Even when touching on heavier topics on the title track “I Remember” and songs such as “Automatic”, Francis’ co-writer and producer George Reid injects his signature shots of addictive synth-pop — rattling your speakers with Major Lazer-meets-Flying Lotus ambiance that helps to create tracks that are not only catchy and addictive but also emotionally resonant. While in the midst of a festival run, we caught up with Francis and spoke about what it’s like balancing the personal with political and finding strength through the act of creation.

READ THE INTERVIEW HERE