'It's a love letter to Leeds': Indie band Apollo Junction release new video celebrating city's landmarks

Forever is the anthemic Indie band's first single from their second album, following on from their 2019 critically-acclaimed debut album Mystery.

The video for the single, shot by videographers Yorkshire Folk before lockdown, features drone footage of Leeds' landmarks including Kirkstall Abbey, Roundhay Park, Headingley Stadium and Elland Road.

The band, made up of lead singer Jamie Williamson, guitarist Matt Wilson, Ben Hope on bass, drummer Jonathan Thorton and Sam Potter on keys, recorded the single in just three days.

Following an extensive dig into the record collections of their family members, the band said the single is about the classic albums and songs that take you back to another moment, be it a holiday or a special time with family.

Guitarist Matt Wilson told the Yorkshire Evening Post: “Music has the power to take you back to a moment, when you're listening to your favourite songs with the people you love and it reminds you of other times.

"That was the point of this song but we also wanted to make the video about Leeds as that’s what we are, who we are. And who a lot of our fans are.

"We’re proud Leeds lads and have a good Leeds fanbase, we care about the city. The song is a love letter to our lives and a love letter to Leeds.

“Maybe this song will take people back to this time and it will be looked back on for generations to come.”

The band have had to adapt the single's promotion during lockdown, with their upcoming gigs cancelled due to the coronavirus pandemic.

They are relying on social media to interact with fans and have had huge support from Leeds Rhinos, who have used the song on their own social media platforms.

Matt, who is a key worker teaching vulnerable children in Leeds, added: “It’s amazing the support we’ve had from the club, Jonny is a huge Rhinos fan and I live in Headingley just down the road from the stadium.

“We’ve always got social media, but the most gutting thing is having summer gigs cancelled. We were due to play with the Kaiser Chiefs, Madness, The Lightning Seeds - these bands are our heroes.

“It’s sad as these are the big moments in your life that you remember, but of course there are more important things going on.

“Social media is great so we are still in touch with our fans. A huge shout out to all our fans and those who are coming along on this journey through social media."

The band have rescheduled a gig at Belgrave Music Hall and Canteen to September 11 and, if the gig is able to go ahead, they are offering free guest list entry for anyone who is an NHS or key worker and a plus one.

Matt added: "Please just message us if you are a NHS or key worker, it’s us behind all our social media."

Watch the full video for Forever here.

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