- Words Charlotte Gornall
LION, the bold and boundary-pushing Australian electropop artist, is making waves with their latest single, 'Break The Binary,' a powerful anthem dedicated to identity liberation and unapologetic self-expression.
With punchy drums, hyperpop aesthetics, and catchy vocal lines, ‘Break The Binary’ captures the limitless possibilities of existence, inviting listeners to break free from societal norms and embrace their true selves. It’s the final instalment of LION’s critically acclaimed EP RECLAMATION, and it encapsulates the artist’s personal journey to self-realisation.
Inspired by a conversation with a close friend about the concept of boundlessness, LION channels these thoughts into the lyrics of ‘Break The Binary,’ blending them with an unfinished beat that had been sitting on their laptop. The result is a track that defies genre expectations, moving through a hyperpop breakdown into lush synth harmonies before building to a euphoric chorus. The song explores themes of freedom, space, and the intergalactic, reimagining a world where identity is fluid, and everyone is free to express themselves without the constraints of societal constructs.
In a tribute to the ballroom community—particularly Black and Latinx trans women—LION honours the spirit of unapologetic self-expression that the community embodies. The accompanying music video celebrates the diverse LGBTQIA+ identities within Naarm (Melbourne), showcasing individuals embracing their unique selves and empowering one another through dance and unity.
With past successes like ‘Not Your Fetish’ and ‘Attention,’ and a growing reputation for electrifying live performances at major Pride events, LION is carving out a path as one of the most exciting queer artists of their generation. At just 23, they are poised to inspire and lead the charge for greater freedom and representation in the music industry.