Walking on a Dream

Walking on a Dream is the 2008 debut studio album by Australian electronic duo Empire of the Sun, consisting of Luke Steele (The Sleepy Jackson) and Nick Littlemore (Pnau). The album arrived during a pivotal moment for indie-electronic music, drawing frequent comparisons to MGMT's Oracular Spectacular for its blend of psychedelic aesthetics and pop sensibilities. Sonically, the record is a masterclass in 'sun-drenched' production, utilizing shimmering synth pads, driving drum machines, and Steele's signature falsetto to create a retro-futuristic sound. Recorded across various locations including Perth and Sydney, the album's visual identity - heavily influenced by Star Wars and fantasy cinema - is inextricably linked to its music. Critical reception was generally positive, with AllMusic praising its 'theatrical schizophrenia' and the BBC noting its ability to balance art-pop experimentation with massive, radio-ready hooks. The title track and 'We Are the People' became global hits, cementing the duo's status as festival mainstays and defining the 'indie-dance' sound of the late 2000s.