Thursday, May 08, 2014

Band Review: The Slow Readers Club


The Slow Readers Club is an unsigned four-man band from Manchester.

While I was watching their music videos, I was struck by how with the backgrounds and the lighting and the other footage that there was a sense of isolation. This was more with "Block Out The Sun" and "Sirens", but even with some really cute aspects in how the video for "Feet on Fire" is executed (it is must-see), there still remains this feeling of modern alienation.

There is an angst to the music that this serves well. In the band's own description, they say their "output ranges from insanely catchy upbeat indie to angry, introspective downbeat ballads." I guess it was the angry introspective ones that jumped out on me.

The other thought that struck me was "minimalist". I'm not sure that is accurate. There are some gorgeous uses of orchestra on "Frozen", and it is not really a stripped down sound in general, but still, it feels like excesses have been taken away. Maybe it is the loss of illusion.

That being said, the music is beautiful, even if it may rend your heart. This includes strong performances on "Block Out The Sun" which shows the skill of the band. Vocals are good, instruments are good, and everything works together in balance. These are pros here.

Their self-titled debut album is available through iTunes and Amazon.






No comments: