Electronic Pop Duo Boys Holding Hands Deliver Raw Emotion on Debut Album Things You Feel
“We wanted this album to truly sound like us… and we remember looking at each other after finishing and saying, ‘this is it.'”
Boys Holding Hands—comprised of real-life couple Ken Orlino and Micki Borneland—are redefining what intimacy sounds like in electronic pop. Their debut LP, Things You Feel, is a vulnerable, genre-blending journey through love, distance, and sonic experimentation. Released in December 2024, the album marks a bold evolution from their 2023 EP Solace, which quickly amassed over 150,000 streams.
“Feelings and emotions are so central to our music… whether that be in a dance track or one of our more mellow songs.”
Feel the music deeper
With Ken’s classical training and Micki’s house and pop background, the duo crafts tracks that pulse with both euphoria and ache. “We dropped ‘The’ from the original title to open the aperture,” they explain, “because this isn’t about capturing all emotions—just the ones that mattered most to us.”
A Global Soundtrack to Connection
“Sydney gave a huge spark to a couple of different songs on the album.”
From LA poolside demos to ferry rides in Norway, from Berlin arrangements to Copenhagen mixing sessions, Things You Feel is both a literal and emotional travelogue. Their creative long-distance process—what they call a “24/7 idea generator”—allowed space for spontaneous inspiration.
“We like to disconnect from music when we’re apart. Living life fuels our creativity.”
Unleash creative sparks
Whether they’re FaceTiming in silence or merging ideas in the studio after weeks apart, the chemistry is palpable. “When we finally get in the same room, it’s ideas, ideas, ideas. Sometimes we have to reel it in!”
Track Highlights
“‘Until Moonlight’ was the hardest to make—it was our first demo and the most emotionally raw.”
The album ranges from introspective slow burns like “gtfo” to party-starting anthems like “Also Bad.” Each track is woven with lush synths, intimate lyrics, and cinematic production. Fan-favorite “All The Words I’ve Never Said” hits especially hard: “We keep its origin private, but everyone finds their own meaning in it—and that’s the magic.”
“Every hump led to unexpected breakthroughs. Our creative friction makes us stronger.”
What’s Next
The duo is set to perform a 2-hour DJ set at SaucedRadio’s Manhattan location on May 3, teasing their upcoming single “Lips” (dropping May 9). Originally intended as a remix of “Your Lips’ Taste,” the track has evolved into its own standalone release—fusing ‘80s funk, ‘90s club culture, and futuristic electro pop.
“This album is our heart’s child—but we’re just getting started.”
Catch them this summer at Distortion Festival and Copenhagen Pride. Stream Things You Feel now on Spotify, Apple Music, or Tidal, and follow them on Instagram @boysholdinghands.
Unveil what’s inside
Full Tracklist:
Midnight Opacity
Your Lips’ Taste
Also Bad
Until Moonlight
All The Words I’ve Never Said
A Minute’s Release
Dear Emptiness
Half of Me
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Pisces Boy
gtfo
For more, visit: boysholdinghands.com
