Lunar & The Deception excavate primordial depths that few artists dare explore. This UK-based quartet conjures sonic archaeology, breathing ancient narratives into contemporary form through their distinctive fusion of darkwave and dream pop.
At the heart stands Britt Xyra Dusk, whose South African roots and multifaceted artistry as costume designer, poet, and vocalist inform every haunting note. Her fascination with pre-patriarchal societies, moon worship, and forgotten mythologies courses through Lunar & The Deception’s ethereal soundscapes, channeling collective memory and archetypal wisdom.
Their latest offering, “Eclipse,” crystallizes their genre-defying vision. Operatic vocals dance with glitch electronics while baroque instrumentation meets primal rhythms—medieval revival for the digital age. It’s music existing between dream and waking, ancient and modern, conflict and transcendence.
Having graced stages from Glastonbury to intimate venues, Lunar & The Deception proves audiences hunger for transformative music. Their work weaves anthropology, activism, and sonic innovation into otherworldly tapestries.
As we anticipate their debut album, we sat down with the band to explore their mystical origins and uncover how they transform ancient mythology into modern sonic alchemy..
What was the first instrument you fell in love with?
The first instrument I fell in love with was a Nord Lead Analogue synth, I still love it now, the analogue sounds are unmatched. I’ve had it for 10 years am and still finding new sounds on it.
The instrument I’m in love with at the moment is a lyre, a classical Greek instrument, like a small harp. It’s what the cherubs play in the classical paintings, I went on a mission to Greece to find one and travelled all over, they were all crazy expensive and I ended up finding one in Denmark Street in London – I love London.
What was the first band or artist you enjoyed when you were younger?
Led Zeppelin, Lloyd Cole, Tori Amos, Faith No More
What was the first album you remember owning?
First vinyl was Kylie Minogue ‘Locomotive’!
What is the one song you wished you could have written yourself?
‘Tiny Dancer’ by Elton John or Handel’s ‘Rinaldo – Lascia Ch’lo Piagna’ (sorry that’s not one!)
Who are your favourite artists you have found yourself listening to at the moment?
Cherrie Laurel, Chinchilla, Orange Blossom’s ‘Everything Must Change’, Wolf Alice’s new album, Glass Beams, Eat Static’s ‘Dead Planet | Human Upgrade’, and Kayhan Kalhor & Toumani Diabaté (R.I.P) – ‘The Sky Is The Same Colour Everywhere’ – stunning…
If there was any moment in your career you could relive, what would it be?
Opening for Pussy Riot at Glastonbury Festival
Which artist would you most love to share a stage with?
Swans, Fever Ray & The Red Hot Chilli Peppers – all 3!
And is there an artist you would love to collaborate with as well?
Stevie Nicks, Nick Cave & Warren Ellis or Trey Spruance (from Secret Chiefs 3)
What do you find is the most rewarding part about being a musician?
When people really CONNECT with the music, sometimes I find a song that I love and I’ll listen to it 20 times on repeat- when someone does that with Lunar & The Deception, it’s so beautiful ; magical.
And what is the best piece of advice you have received as a musician?
Get out of your bedroom & play live on stage and NEVER give up – believe in yourself and persevere!
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Stream ‘Eclipse’ in the player below
