Does anyone remember Postcard Records? They were a Glasgow based record
company from the early 80s who claimed to be "The Sound
of Young Scotland". Their roster included Orange Juice, Josef
K and Aztec Camera and I have a feeling Brazil Exists would have fitted
right in.
Having formed in 2010 the five piece Stirling band have spent the
last couple of years building up a fan base by playing local venues
and organising their own DIY gigs. After honing their skills, they
entered the studio to record their debut EP, with Andy Monaghan of
Frightened Rabbit, that saw the light of day in March of this year.
Starting with uplifting trumpet by Michael Reade, opener Cars
and Aeroplanes has a bubbly quality that reminds me of a Scottish
New Order. All swirling guitars laying down a rich tapestry over which
vocalist Andy McAllister can flex his lyrical Celtic larynx.
AOkay starts as a rather summery number and Andys
delivery instantly makes me think of Ed Borrie of (perennial R*E*P*E*A*T
favourites) S*M*A*S*H. Close harmonies mingle with guitars, trumpet,
the sympathetic bass of James Duncan and rhythmic drumming of Darren
Duncan. The song finally finishing with rather ghostly, ethereal voices.
Slower tempo Happy New Year starts with some intricate
guitar work by Craig Ferrie. At times almost bleak, the song meanders
pleasurably towards a seemingly romantic chorus of Kissing when
the bells went. However on closer inspection the object of his
unrequited love is apparently happier alone. Sad and melancholic,
but something Im sure we have all felt at one time or another.
Last number Boxcar continues in the same manner, with
close interaction of band members, both musically and vocally. I must
say the trumpet is a vastly underrated instrument when it comes to
pop music and its a pleasure to hear it used so liberally on
the EP. Again a number than will only improve in the Summer sunshine.
Maybe the one area I think the band could improve on
is in providing a lyric sheet for those of us born south of Hadrains
Wall. Having said that though I loved the Skids, but could never understand
a word Richard Jobson was on about either!
So a good start to their recording career and worthy of support by
anyone who professes to like indie or alternative music. If you fancy
a copy drop the lads a line and Im sure they can provide you
with a slice of their own Scottish sunshine for a very reasonable
price.