BRAZIL EXISTS – HERMIT EP


Does anyone remember Postcard Records? They were a Glasgow based record company from the early 80’s 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.


“A–Okay” starts as a rather summery number and Andy’s 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 I’m 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 it’s 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 Hadrain’s 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 I’m sure they can provide you with a slice of their own Scottish sunshine for a very reasonable price.

Bones


brazilexists@gmail.com
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www.alphonic.co.uk/brazilexists