: "Aura" was widely acclaimed by electronic music media as a standout moment of 2017, helping the album reach critical prominence.
: The track is a staple of Bicep's live sets, though it once famously caused a technical issue when the bass was so loud it shook a soundcard connection out. Bicep's Synth-Driven 'Aura' Gets Tense Video - NPR
: A group of disciples follows a man with a mysterious "aura" through a desolate landscape of roving tanks and abandoned buildings.
"Aura" is a landmark electronic track by the Northern Irish duo (Andy Ferguson and Matt McBriar), serving as the lead single for their self-titled debut album released in 2017 via Ninja Tune. Origins and Composition
The track originally began as a nine-minute abstract instrumental without any drums. At the suggestion of their manager to make it more "club-friendly," the duo added a rhythmic spine, transforming it from a cinematic ambient piece into a high-energy house track. It is frequently cited for its "beautifully smooth and deep bass rasps" and crisp string arrangements, making it a favorite for testing audio equipment bass quality . Visual and Music Video
The official music video was directed by London filmmaker Matilda Finn. It follows a high-concept, abstract narrative:
: Finn utilized a tense, gripping visual style to match the synth-driven suspense of the song.
: The duo chose Finn’s treatment because it pushed the boundaries of their project, moving into "weird, creative, and imaginative" territory. Critical Reception
