Illumen Releases Latest Single, ‘What’s Going On’

Released on July 30, ‘What’s Going On’ is the new single from Swedish three-piece, Illumen. The anthemic track feels as though it’s made for a movie or television soundtrack, while the band take their inspiration from the likes of Tones & I, HAIM and Coldplay, Tom Grennan, and The Wombats.

Taking their name from the idea that the band illuminates the darker sides of themselves, as well as the dark times the world is experiencing, Illumen make music to help people strive to make a difference for the better, and their songs capture the emotions of their listeners.

‘What’s Going On’, like the Marvin Gaye classic of the same name, is a reactionary song, but unlike Gaye’s song, which was about police brutality, Illumen’s focus is on Covid-19, and the multiple threats about the fake news surrounding the virus and the Pandemic.

Showcasing their talent as superior musicians and songwriters, Stockholm-based Illumen use lyrics to challenge world leaders and the way they’re guiding the nations during this time of great difficulty. The song shines a light on – illuminates – the hardships the world has had to overcome, and provides in itself a top drawer example of the band’s passion for their music, as well as their obvious skill.

‘What’s Going On’ is available to stream and download here.

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About the author

Lisa has been writing for over 20 years, starting as the entertainment editor on her university newspaper. Since then she's written for Popwrapped, Maximum Pop, Celebmix, and ListenOnRepeat.

Lisa loves all good music, with particular fondness for Jedward and David Bowie. She's interviewed Edward Grimes (Jedward), Kevin Godley, Trevor Horn, Paul Young, Peter Cox (Go West), Brendan B Brown (Wheatus), Bruce Foxton (The Jam), among many many more. Lisa is also available for freelance writing - please email lisa@essentiallypop.com