DARKROOM CODE

About This Song

Following his role as co-writer and featured vocalist on Felsmann + Tiley’s ‘God Is Lonelier’, Brisbane/Magandjin-based Australian artist, Laius returns with “DARKROOM CODE”. Set in the grungy depths of Berlin’s underground, the track pulses with rumbling 808s, pumping synths and distorted drums. In this track, New Zealand artist, Liam Ello, contributes additional toplining and minor production to the instant club classic. Laius reveals the track’s inception: “It was really unexpected. Liam sent me this 30 second bare-bones demo with the melody of the first verse, the 808, kick and percussion. I was instantly hooked by that bassline and finished the rest of the song in about a week”, ‘DARKROOM CODE’ encapsulates the euphoria, bittersweetness and melancholy of re-opening yourself to connections; from the fear of starting from scratch to that stomach drop as you free-fall from brand new heights to being anchored by the low rumble of the bass on the dance floor. “It’s about the confidence you find in anonymity, the ecstasy and freedom of fleeting connections and rediscovering the familiar thrill of the cat-and-mouse”, Laius explains. “It’s all been a welcome punch in the gut and with the air that expelled from my lungs came a reminder of what it felt like to breathe without a heavy weight on my chest.” After a long run of emotionally-charged, dramatic and cinematic releases, this track signals a new era for Laius, defined by confidence, purpose and conviction. “‘DARKROOM CODE’ is an introduction, or rather, a bridge to my new sound” , Laius teases. “For the first time in a long time, songs are flowing out of me with renewed vigour and I’m excited to share this new side of me with the world.” This record was created at Laius’ 4000 Studios home. After playing two sold-out shows with Felsmann + Tiley (M83, Muse) in Germany, producing ‘CHEATBACK’ on Melbourne JXCKY’s dark-pop sophomore EP and featuring on ‘God Is Lonelier’ from Felsmann + Tiley’s album ‘Protomensch’, Laius is amping up for a big 2026 with a debut EP showcasing his evolving sound. Laius artist bio: Pronounced “lay-us”, Laius is an electronic pop nuclear fusion; a collision of poetic storytelling and sharp pop hooks that sink their teeth into every soul they find. Writing, recording and producing everything independently, Laius crafts immersive soundscapes filled with evocative sound design. Every project is a carefully constructed world where lyrics, sonics and visuals align with conceptual intention. To Laius, it is never just about a song. It is about world-building that rewards repeat listeners and deep engagement. He was awarded the “Innovation Award” in Brisbane/Meanjin’s QUBE Effect, presented by Ian Haug (Powderfinger). Following recent Spotify editorial playlist placements including ‘Electronic Rising’ and multiple territories’ ‘New Music Friday’, Laius has seen a rapid increase in monthly listeners and international audience reach. Known for his willingness to step away from conventional arrangements and sounds and weaving literary prose into his lyricism, Laius continues to push the boundaries of pop music.

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