Empire of the Sun

Empire of the Sun’s debut album Walking on a Dream turned the Sydney duo into an international success in 2008, pairing electronic pop with flamboyant costumes and elaborate stage sets. The album was certified double platinum in Australia and gold in the United Kingdom, while its title track reached number ten on the Australian ARIA Singles Chart. “We Are the People” also travelled internationally, peaking at number fourteen on the UK Singles Chart.

Formed in 2007, Empire of the Sun brings together Luke Steele, lead singer of the alternative rock band The Sleepy Jackson, and Nick Littlemore of electronic dance group Pnau. Their music draws on synthpop, electronica and dance-pop, with Steele’s vocal presence set against Littlemore’s electronic production. The project’s visual identity has been central to its live presentation, from theatrical clothing to large-scale stage design.

Walking on a Dream was a major success at the 2009 ARIA Music Awards, receiving 11 nominations and winning seven awards, including Album of the Year. Empire of the Sun followed it with Ice on the Dune in June 2013, then released Two Vines in October 2016. Their fourth album, Ask That God, arrived in July 2024. Alongside their recordings, the duo have performed internationally as a live band.