WRITTEN BY CHERRYLLE URBANO
Growing up as a die-hard 5 Seconds of Summer fan, hearing Luke Hemmings release the live version of "Close My Eyes" instantly brought back my middle school fangirl days! For those who might not know, Hemmings recently wrapped up a worldwide spring tour and is set to release a new EP, Nostalgia, in December. The EP will feature live recordings from his LA stop on the tour, capturing the raw magic of his performances.
"Close My Eyes" delves into Hemmings’ feelings about entering his late twenties, reflecting on the fear of leaving youth behind. The song carries a mature twist on the alt-pop sound reminiscent of his early days, blending nostalgia with growth. Listening to it, I could feel echoes of his younger self, now seen through the lens of someone older and wiser. As someone grappling with the anxieties of entering my mid-twenties, I found comfort in his vulnerability—it’s a reminder that while time moves quickly, cherishing each moment is what truly matters.
The live version of this song feels incredibly personal, showcasing Hemmings’ artistry and talent in a way that studio recordings simply can’t. Its nostalgic yet fresh sound transported me back to the days of dancing in my room as a little fan. Although I’m older now, I love that Hemmings is growing alongside his fans, creating music that evolves while still hitting close to home.
Reflecting on the tour and the EP, Hemmings shared: "I had an incredible time earlier this year getting to play songs from my EP ‘boy’ and my debut album ‘When Facing the Things We Turn Away From.’ Now that the Nostalgia tour is officially wrapped, I’m excited to commemorate it with a live EP so the memories can be experienced again and again. Hope you enjoy it."
If you haven’t heard the live version yet, prepare to feel like you’re right there in the crowd—or back in your bedroom, reliving those fan-filled moments. It’s impossible not to squeal with excitement as Hemmings brings his heart and soul to every note. Here’s hoping everyone gets to experience the magic of his live recordings—it’s a gift for fans old and new alike.