British synth-pop trio Years & Years, known for popular tracks like ‘King’ and ‘Shine’, have released a stunningly haunting acoustic cover of the 1987 Pet Shop Boys track ‘It’s a Sin’. The single takes a new spin on the 80s tune as it joins the soundtrack of Channel 4’s latest comedy-drama of the same name which premiered just last Friday.
Years & Years frontman Olly Alexander stars in It’s a Sin as the show’s protagonist, portraying 18-year-old Ritchie Tozer whose newfound freedom and sexual liberation after moving to London allows the narrative to delve into the world of the 1980s AIDS crisis. The city cast into a panic over the increase in AIDS and HIV is explored in the show, with creator Russell T. Davis casting only gay actors in the roles of gay characters to encourage true performances and offer opportunities.
The Pet Shop Boys original is one of their most notable releases, becoming the band’s second number-one single in the UK Charts and finding its place as an upbeat 80s classic on the dance-floor. As the five-part mini-series It’s a Sin centers around the ‘underground’ LGBT scene of the 1980s, it’s no surprise that Russell T. Davis picked a track with such poignant lyricism and dance scene flair. It’s a Sin draws directly into the discussion of forced shame and choice, connecting to the show’s representation of marginalised individuals whilst drawing in both young and old audiences alike through the titular track.
Years & Years’ take on the track showcases, through its melodic twist, the reality of the show and the impact AIDS had on individuals living in the United Kingdom during the crisis. Alexander posted to his Twitter that the band plan to donate a portion of the single’s proceeds to George House Trust, a charity that focuses on providing support and advice to those suffering from or impacted by HIV.
Catch It’s a Sin every Friday at 9pm on Channel 4, concluding on February 19th.
Words by Katie Evans.
Image credit: Channel 4.
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