**After Duo Discusses their Debut Album ‘Fell Asleep in the Sun’ and the Influences Behind their Sound**
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Los Angeles-based pop duo After, consisting of Justine Dorsey and Graham Epstein, has recently released their debut album, *Fell Asleep in the Sun*. The album encapsulates a sense of nostalgia reminiscent of early 2000s pop culture, an aesthetic that has become a hallmark of their music. The pair, who met through the dating app Hinge in 2021, spent a year developing their friendship before deciding to collaborate creatively.
Their newfound partnership has proven fruitful, as After has made a name for itself by blending influences from pop icons like Michelle Branch and emerging alongside notable fans like Kim Petras, Princess Nokia, and Gabbriette Bechtel. The duo’s sound, marked by glossy production combined with an authentic edge, aims to evoke a sense of both familiarity and novelty.
Epstein explains that *Fell Asleep in the Sun* became the ideal title after their lawyer suggested it during a casual golf outing. The title track captures themes of solitude and self-acceptance, reflecting the album’s overarching motif of change and letting go. The duo notes that the songs within the album were developed over the last year, with many stemming from earlier sessions but refined into their current forms through meticulous detail-oriented work.
Dorsey recalls their early meetings, highlighting that their friendship formed organically. “We would hang out at parties and talk about music, and then one day we were just friends,” she shared. Their shared love of pop music and nostalgic vibes became the driving force behind their creative process. Each song is a modern homage to the sounds of the past while maintaining an innovative twist.
When reflecting on the influences that shaped the album, Epstein cites a blend of his musical upbringing. He enjoyed bands like Sigur Rós and Fountains of Wayne, which have contributed to the multilayered aesthetic he strives for in their music. Dorsey also expresses her admiration for female artists in the singer-songwriter realm, including Taylor Swift and Anna Nalick, whom she credits for inspiring much of her lyrical content.
As the duo navigates their rising fame, Dorsey revealed that they were thrilled to learn Michelle Branch recognises their work, calling the connection “unbelievable.” The duo’s music has also attracted unexpected fans, bridging genres and scenes, which they find particularly exciting. “It’s cool to see such a diverse range of listeners gravitating towards our music,” said Epstein.
The creative vision of After draws inspiration from early 2000s aesthetics, with modern nods to consumer culture and digital imagery. Both members believe that their vision is reflected in their music videos and visual presentations. Epstein’s fascination with categorising aesthetics has influenced their approach to creating visuals that transport audiences back in time while also providing a contemporary twist.
*Fell Asleep in the Sun* features songs that encapsulate the passage of time and the bittersweet nature of growing older, such as “300 Dreams” and “Deep Diving.” These tracks convey emotional complexities and a yearning for simplicity and connection. Dorsey highlights that the overarching narrative of the album relates to self-reflection and the inevitable changes that life brings.
As the duo looks toward the future, they express excitement about the potential directions their music could take. “We want to keep writing music that resonates with us,” Epstein stated. Dorsey echoed this sentiment, adding that the evolution of their sound could lead them into various genres while still retaining their unique identity.
After’s debut album *Fell Asleep in the Sun* is now available under the Mom + Pop label. The duo’s dedication to their craft shines through their music, offering a blend of nostalgic pop soundscapes with modern sensibilities. As they continue to grow in the music industry, fans can expect much more from this dynamic duo.