Photo Credit: Larry Niehues

Indie’s sharpest showman is stepping back into the glow. Sunlight in the Shadows, Miles Kane’s sixth studio album, dives headfirst into the tension between pain, lust, and letting go. Produced by Dan Auerbach of The Black Keys, the record pairs slick, cinematic production with Kane’s unmistakable swagger, wrapping raw emotion in layers of shimmering guitar riffs and unexpected sonic twists.

Every track hums with vintage cool, like the soundtrack to an old-school action flick that hits you right in the nostalgia. It’s the kind of record that grabs you from the first riff and doesn’t let go.

The album opens with ‘Love Is Cruel’, the first single released back in June 2025, and it immediately sets the tone for what’s to come. The track kicks in with heavy guitars that pull you in before giving way to Kane’s steady, heartfelt vocals. There’s real depth to the song, each layer adding something new, from the rough edges of the guitar to the clean, sharp production. It’s a strong, confident opener that captures both the emotion and energy that drive Sunlight in the Shadows.

A ‘70s influence runs through the entire album, giving the songs a warm, nostalgic feel as classic indie rock takes centre stage. Kane balances this retro energy with a modern emotional depth, turning heartbreak into something almost hopeful. His rich vocals sit just behind the layers of instruments, letting the melodies carry the story while adding a timeless quality to the record.

Following ‘Love Is Cruel’ comes another standout single, ‘Electric Flower’. The track leans into cool jazz and blues-inspired basslines, blending them seamlessly with the slower, reflective tones of classic indie rock. Though it’s one of the more relaxed songs on the album, it works perfectly as a bridge between tracks when played in order. The song pulses with a quiet energy, and the repeated refrain of ‘Electric Flower’ locks in as an unexpectedly catchy hook, making it both smooth and memorable.

The title track, ‘Sunlight in the Shadows’, continues a slower approach, opening with a calm, steady backdrop before diving into a world of soaring guitar riffs that push the song forward. The interplay between soft tones and powerful strings mirrors the track’s name, like sunlight breaking through the shadows. While the song leans on repetition, it works in its favour, drawing listeners in and solidifying its place as a standout, perfectly suited title track.

‘Always in Over My Head’ brings a noticeable shift in tone, setting the stage for ‘Blue Skies’, where Kane’s heartfelt lyrics drift over slow, jazz-inflected guitar lines. These tracks reveal a more intimate, reflective side of the album, giving listeners a glimpse into the emotions behind the music. The instrumentation feels almost magical, with each note carefully placed to draw the audience deeper into the mood. Throughout these songs, themes of reminiscence and hope create a quietly sentimental atmosphere. Miles manages to balance melancholy with optimism, making these tracks feel like a gentle reminder that even in uncertainty, there’s the possibility of light and better days ahead.

Two standout tracks, ‘Slow Death‘ and ‘Sing a Song to Love’, bring a surge of energy to the album. Both are full of head-banging guitar riffs and catchy choruses that stick in your head. They capture the indie-rock vibe perfectly and give listeners a fun, almost “dance-along” feel. The instruments are layered and strong, from driving guitars to tight drums, keeping the songs moving from start to finish. These tracks also offer a nice contrast to the slower, more reflective songs, making them some of the most exciting and memorable moments on Sunlight in the Shadows.

The album closes with ‘Walk in the Ocean’, taking a brighter, more uplifting turn on the theme of love. It feels like Kane’s way of ending the record on a hopeful note, walking into the ocean, as if stepping away from the album itself. Though it’s one of the slower tracks, the instrumentation keeps the momentum flowing, leaving listeners with a sense of calm resolution and quiet reflection. It’s a gentle, fitting farewell that lingers long after the final note fades.

‘Sunlight in the Shadows’ is a cohesive and compelling record that blends reflection, intimacy, and raw energy. The layered instrumentals and Miles‘ emotional delivery work together to create an album that resonates long after the last note fades, showcasing him at the top of his game and reaffirming his place as one of indie music’s most captivating voices.