There are songs you listen to, and then there are songs that transport you. Poolside, the new single from London and Cyprus-based band Exxport, does exactly that. Inspired by Rod Temperton’s legendary songwriting and the shimmering sounds of early ’80s pop disco, the track pulls you into a sunlit world of groove, warmth, and nostalgia. With its effortless blend of RnB, old-school funk, and Nu’ Soul, Poolside feels both classic and refreshingly modern.
At its heart, Poolside is about escape—the release you feel when the workweek ends and you find yourself surrounded by good company, music, and laughter. True to its name, the song was written during a weekend retreat in Cyprus, literally by the poolside. That context shines through the music. Within the first few bars, the rhythm locks in with an easy sway, the melodies shimmer, and you’re transported to a scene of relaxation and joy. It’s the kind of track that makes you want to dance barefoot with the sun setting behind you.
The song’s creation was just as organic as its vibe. Written in under 20 minutes, the lyrics and groove came together naturally, reflecting the band’s own moment of unwinding. Produced by band founder Evander SK, the track features silky vocals from Ozge that glide over the groove with soul and finesse. Adding even more flavor are the saxophone solos from Ivan Lavrentev and Batu Salliel, which bring an irresistible energy reminiscent of disco-era live sessions. Recorded partly in Cyprus and Istanbul, then mixed and mastered in London, the track carries an international spirit that mirrors the band’s diverse lineup of members from five different nationalities.
Musically, Poolside stands out for the way it bridges eras. You can hear the DNA of classic funk and disco in the basslines and horns, but the modern polish of its production keeps it firmly in the now. That balance makes the song versatile—it works as easily for a chill beach playlist as it does for a late-night rooftop party. There’s a timelessness to it, rooted in the nostalgia of the ’80s but alive with contemporary soul.
What also makes this release notable is the band itself. Exxport is not just another group dipping into retro sounds. With Evander SK leading as songwriter and producer, Ivan Lavrentev on saxophone, and Gorkem M on drums, they’ve built a sound around authenticity. Their motto—RnB, Ol’ Funk, Nu’ Soul—isn’t just a tagline, it’s a mission statement, and Poolside is proof they’re living it out. Their nomination at the Intercontinental Music Awards in the American RnB category shows that recognition is already coming their way.
Poolside is more than just a single. It’s a milestone for a band determined to carve out their space in today’s music scene. It captures a universal feeling of joy, relaxation, and freedom, while showcasing Exxport’s ability to blend tradition with innovation. In a world that often feels too fast and too heavy, Poolside is a reminder to pause, breathe, and groove.
Connect with EXXPORT on
English