Last July

Last July are a UK dark romantic group active from 2008 to 2014. Their line-up includes Nevla, Alixandrea Corvyn and Dvae. The band is frequently described as goth, but their sound draws on new romantic, goth, rock and industrial influences.

Style and approach

Their songs focus on emotion and sorrow, but the music is presented with an upbeat, optimistic edge rather than a bleak one. They combine live electronics with dark atmospheres, driving guitars and melodic vocals, and place emphasis on performance.

Early activity and release history

Last July first form as a two-piece and build a following after playing to a packed audience at the Resolution Hotel during Whitby Goth Weekend in October 2009. A favourable article in Unscene Magazine follows. After a series of gigs across the country, the band release their debut EP, Nothing Else But You, which receives positive reviews and internet radio play.

Line-up changes and later work

In 2011, the band add Nevla on guitar, formerly of Rome Burns and All Living Fear, and their sound and stage presence develop further. They continue with a run of successful gigs, including festival appearances and support slots with established goth acts. The following year they begin recording their first full-length album, A True Story of a Lie, and later add H, also formerly of Rome Burns, on bass.

A main-stage performance at Whitby Goth Weekend marks a high point for the group. In 2013 they complete writing a new album, sign to AF Music in Germany and add another member to the live line-up. That year also brings the remix album Perceptions, issued ahead of a new studio album planned for release in December. By December 2014, the band is no longer active.

After the band

After the group ends, vocalist Alixandrea and synth player Nevla continue DJing together. Alixandrea also moves into providing singing lessons. Guitarist Sam Morrison later forms Ghostlights, an electronic rock project with vocalist Katrina Andariel; it releases the EP Forest of Lights on Bandcamp.