Hey, music lovers! Ready to be whisked away to a place where your troubles just melt away? Matt Gwilt’s new single, “Where You Belong,” is a shimmering blend of old-school House, Synthpop, and Nu-disco that feels like a warm hug from the ’80s with a modern twist. As a founding member of Leeds legends The Sunshine Underground, Matt’s no stranger to crafting dancefloor magic, but this solo venture—complete with his debut as a lead vocalist—is something special. Let’s dive into why this track is a must-listen and get to know the Manchester-based artist behind it.
A Sonic Journey to Contentment
“Where You Belong” hits the ground running with weaving, pulsing analogue synths that instantly transport you to a neon-lit dancefloor. From the opening notes, the track’s old-school House roots shine through, with a bouncy 124 BPM rhythm in a major key that’s equal parts uplifting and nostalgic. At 00:44, Matt’s dreamy vocals kick in, smooth and emotive, urging you toward a place of pure contentment. The lyrics, like the soaring chant at 03:18—“Here there are no troubles for you, your troubles fly away”—feel like a gentle reminder to find your happy place, whether it’s in nature, love, or a moment of peace.
Produced by FC Kahuna (known for the iconic “Hayling” with 25 million streams), the track is rich and sonically soaring, blending Synthpop’s melodic warmth with Nu-disco’s infectious groove. The production is crisp yet soulful, with bouncing basslines and shimmering arpeggios that evoke the spirit of early Daft Punk or Hot Chip. It’s the kind of song that works as well at a sunset beach party as it does in your headphones during a city stroll. The accompanying music video, filmed in Manchester’s vibrant city center, adds a visual layer to the track’s escapist vibe, marking Matt’s first-ever video and a bold step into his solo career.
Who Is Matt Gwilt? A Veteran with a Fresh Voice
Matt Gwilt may be a new name as a solo artist, but he’s a seasoned pro in the electronic music scene. As a founding member of The Sunshine Underground, a Leeds band that blended alternative rock with danceable electronic beats, Matt spent a decade touring the world and releasing four acclaimed albums. When the band amicably split in 2017, he took a breather, trading his drumsticks for some soul-searching in Manchester, where he’s lived for nearly seven years.
Lockdown reignited his creative spark, leading him to build a recording studio and dive into songwriting with a new perspective. “Where You Belong” showcases his evolution, retaining the electronic edge of The Sunshine Underground’s later work but adding a mature, emotional depth. For the first time, Matt steps up to the mic as lead vocalist, his voice carrying a sincerity that pairs perfectly with the track’s uplifting message. He’s also formed a “Made in Manchester” supergroup with Fiona from The Whip and James from The KBC, and they’re hitting the UK stage this month for their first shows. With production from FC Kahuna, whose knack for nostalgic yet fresh sounds elevates the track, Matt’s solo debut is a bold statement.
Why “Where You Belong” Shines in 2025
Nu-disco and Synthpop are riding a wave in 2025, with artists like The Weeknd and Dua Lipa keeping retro-inspired dance music in the spotlight. “Where You Belong” taps into this trend, channeling the ’80s vibes of acts like New Order while feeling right at home on modern playlists like Spotify’s Nu-Disco Nights or Synthwave Dreams. Its old-school House elements, with their warm analogue synths, align with the resurgence of classic dance sounds, as seen in releases from labels like Defected Records. The track’s message of finding peace also resonates in a world where self-care and mindfulness are more important than ever, making it a timely anthem for escaping life’s chaos.
The Manchester music scene, known for its rich history from Joy Division to The Chemical Brothers, adds a layer of authenticity to Matt’s work. His supergroup’s live shows are set to bring “Where You Belong” to life, promising sweaty, joyful gigs that capture the city’s vibrant energy. With its universal appeal and danceable groove, this track is poised to be a staple in clubs, festivals, and chill-out sessions alike.
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Let’s Talk “Where You Belong”!
“Where You Belong” by Matt Gwilt is a nostalgic yet fresh Nu-disco anthem that’s all about finding your happy place. With its pulsing synths, dreamy vocals, and uplifting chant, it’s a track that invites you to let go and soar. Matt’s solo debut, backed by FC Kahuna’s production and a Manchester supergroup, is proof he’s ready to shine in 2025.
What do you think of “Where You Belong”? Are you vibing with the Nu-disco groove, or is the emotional pull of the lyrics stealing your heart? Drop your thoughts in the comments and share this post with your music-loving friends!
