On February 28th, 2025, Bradley Simpson released his debut solo album, The Panic Years. After years of performing in front of millions as the lead singer of The Vamps, Simpson now channels his star power into a personal and genre-blending record. With touches of indie-rock, Americana, ’80s synth and psychedelia, alongside a pop-infused charm, the album showcases his versatility. More importantly, The Panic Years dives deep into his personal experiences: life, love, and self-discovery, creating a diary-like collection of coming-of-age moments that fans will instantly connect to.
The album opens with ‘Cry at the Moon’, Simpson’s debut solo single, setting the tone with a blend of alt-indie and rock influences. The dark atmosphere enhances his heartfelt lyrics about love and loss, while his soulful vocals guide listeners through heartbreak’s emotional highs and lows. This is followed by ‘Picasso’, a track that combines a smooth, soulful vocal delivery with a funky rhythm. Its lyrics transform pain into beauty, capturing love’s devotion and turbulence, while an infectious beat makes it reflective and danceable.
Next comes ‘Carpet Burn’, a confessional piece that blends contemporary sounds with a warm ’70s feel. Written in just 30 minutes in a New York hotel room, the song captures the longing for more time with a loved one, giving it an intimate and deeply personal touch. ‘Daisies’, the album’s third single, offers a fresh, sun-soaked energy, capturing the excitement of falling in love and the uncertainty that comes with it. Fast-paced and feel-good, the track radiates a carefree charm that contrasts with the weight of its emotions.
The album takes a more introspective turn with ‘Holy Grail’, which starts slow and gradually builds, introducing layers of instrumentation. Released as a single in late 2024, Simpson describes it as a song about realising that love’s ups and downs make it meaningful.
Moving into its second half, the album introduces its first brand-new track, ‘Getting Clear’. Returning to an indie-rock/pop style, the song features strong drum beats and powerful vocals. Simpson plays with repetition and high notes, building a climactic finish that leaves a lasting impression.
Track seven, ‘Not Us Anymore’, immediately changes the energy, launching into an 80s-inspired groove with an undeniably catchy beat. Simpson effortlessly shifts between low and high notes, making it impossible to sit still while listening. The mood shifts again with ‘Almost’, a slower, bass-heavy track that highlights his deeper vocal register. The song creates a calming yet melancholic atmosphere through voice-layering, feeling like a letter to a past lover about what almost was.
‘Favourite Band’ brings another sharp turn, channelling the sound of an indie classic while delivering a more bitter, revenge-tinged narrative. With lyrics like “So when you see me on TV and he’s singing all the words, oh, I hope it hurts,” Simpson embraces a darker, more cutting side of his songwriting.
Taking a brief break from new material, ‘Always Like This’ returns to a style similar to the album’s lead single. Written and recorded in Paris, the track blends gritty guitars with angsty lyrics, infused with a distinct Parisian flair. Its raw sound, driven by pounding drums and electric guitar riffs, reflects Simpson’s admiration for The Black Keys and The White Stripes.
With ‘The Band’s Not Breaking Up’, Simpson delivers one of the most emotional moments on the album. Balancing a message for his longtime fans and a past lover, the song’s acoustic melody adds a deeply personal and reflective touch. Lyrics like “No, the band’s not breaking up, but I guess we really did,” make it a standout track, creating a touching moment that might bring a tear or two to the listener’s eye.
Ending on a fitting note, the title track ‘The Panic Years’ reflects on Simpson’s last decade. Its upbeat acoustic melody carries a hopeful message, leaving the story open-ended, hinting that there is more to come.
With The Panic Years, Bradley Simpson presents a collection of tracks that blend different genres, emotions, and storytelling styles. The album highlights his growth as a solo artist, his ability to craft deeply personal lyrics, and his undeniable versatility. Whether through high-energy indie anthems, heartfelt acoustic ballads, or nostalgic ’80s grooves, Simpson delivers a debut album that feels intimate and universal. To celebrate the release, Simpson will embark on an intimate run of acoustic record store performances in March, followed by his biggest UK tour in May. With such a promising start to his solo career, it’s safe to say The Panic Years is just the beginning.
Written by: Ilse Muis
Edited by: Molly Day
