AR/CO on Curating Dance-Pop Perfection With ‘Origin Stories’

INTERVIEW

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INTERVIEW ✦

With more than 100M streams, over 3M monthly listeners on Spotify, and a Grammy nomination behind them, the dynamic pop duo known as AR/CO recently made their 2024 return with the euphoric, addictive single “Boys Like Girls” inviting listeners into a visionary universe of futuristic, desert-rave magic.

Consisting of Mali-Koa from Sydney and partner Leo Stannard from Leicester, the pair’s new drop brings forth a pulsating, psychedelic dance-pop sound that serves as a liberating pop music experience — dually acting as a must-have precursor to their recent EP Origin Stories which collects some of their biggest hits to date alongside the new standout track. And whether you're a long-time fan of their hypnotic anthems like “Cherry Lips” and “Call Me By My Name,” or even a newcomer to their innovative electro-pop sounds, the duo’s newest era promises to enchant with its party vibes, vibrant energy, and harmonious vocals that propel the dance-pop genre into the future.

AR/CO

Can you share more about the concept behind your debut EP Origin Stories, and how it represents the first era of your career as AR/CO?

Leo: It’s the wonky music we first wrote, the crazy ideas we first came up with, and the central characters we crafted to join us in AR/CO world. We’re tryna tell a whole big story and this is just the foundation. It’ll be cool to look back and say, ‘Wow, that was the very beginning for us.’ We’re excited for that.  

With "Boys Like Girls" acting as the focus track of Origin Stories, what would you say makes this song a perfect representation of the EP?

Leo: Sometimes we banter in sessions and sing really stupid but playful ideas — “Boys Like Girls” came about like that. It’s all about creating from a place of fun and freedom for us and escaping the real world. Perfect pairing. 

In what ways do you feel Origin Stories immerses listeners into the world of AR/CO?

Mali: We introduce some new characters ‘The Twins,’ our avatars, and ‘Mother AR/CO’ into the mix. I think this mix narration and interesting content around this EP will really allow people to imagine themselves in this other world. 

AR/CO

As a project conceived during lockdown, what was the biggest challenge and success associated with those unique artistic parameters?

Leo: We had the time to finally explore new branches of music outside of normal music pressures, it all just felt very relaxed, and usually, that’s when inspiration stops by. Challenges include Zoom sessions where Mali didn’t know how to turn her mic on, she did eventually learn how to cut vocals though!

You’ve stated that "Earth is now, AR/CO is forever" which is definitely a bold statement, and we love that level of confidence! What would be your ideal vision for the future of AR/CO?

Leo: We feel like there’s a space for more bold artistry and creativity, we both have a vision for AR/CO where music meets art. We wanna put on great shows that encourage imagination, and who knows? Build something that does feel like it could last forever, or at least grow old with you. 

How has the journey from individual music endeavors to the formation of this duo impacted your approach to creating music?

Mali: Being in a team is awesome, we fail together and thrive together now. There is no ‘I’ in AR/CO. 

Finally, what’s been the most gratifying aspect of being a part of AR/CO?

Mali: It’s crazy when you meet fans and they embody the AR/CO ethos, they’ll dress up for shows or push the AR/CO other worldly-ness. We just never knew if people would catch on, but that keeps us grateful.