Track Review: Echo Arcadia- Ghosts — Music Musings & Such

TRACK REVIEW:

Echo Arcadia

Ghosts

9.5/10.0

Ghosts is available at:

https://soundcloud.com/echo_arcadia/02-echo-arcadia-ghosts/s-kMvTz

RELEASED: Late-2015

GENRES: Folk-Indie; Pop-Rock

ORIGIN:

Edinburgh, Scotland

IT is a relief to be back with a band that….

have had a quiet year (this year). I am glad to hear back from them- was going to check round their houses for any dodgy smells/piling mail on the doorstep- but the boys (and girl) have been busy working- getting some new music together. Having called off the police- and putting my ‘body-poking pole’ back in the closest- I can breathe a sigh of relief and welcome them back- one of my favourite subjects from last year. When assessing Beauty in an Average Life- the band’s L.P. released last April- it marked both a turning-point and an eye-opener. On the one hand, my reviews became fuller and more detailed- the Scottish band’s music brought so much out of me- and consequently, turned me into a better writer. The music- offered by Echo Arcadia- was so evocative and dream-inspiring; compelling and dramatic- filled with so much beauty and heart. Few bands (up until that point) had elicited the same reaction- the hand-trembling visceral; that ecstatic paen- trying to get everything down. Not to over-sell the band; the music had that special quality- something I had never heard before; have not heard since. Deeply personal and special, it also had a wide appeal: songs that connect with listeners; sounds that both comfort and intrigue- the band’s passionate performances completely natural (and enough to overwhelm the sturdiest of ears). Before I (re-)introduce the band- and update you on their activities- I am reminded of a few things. My first point- don’t need to sigh that hard; I only have three (points) - concerns band variation/style. A lot of what I am hearing- from my last review to the majority of this year’s- is heavy and Rock-influenced. Bands tend to- and not that it’s a bad thing- turn the volume up; get those riffs screaming like a bitch; ensure (the music proffered) kicks balls and pulls hair- leaves the listener (a triturated) mess of skin and bones. Within the chaos and coskureidness (not a word; sounds good, mind) there is nuance and intelligence- we’re not talking about Nickelback here! It is always nice when bands are more ‘daring’; that is to say, go beyond the majority- craft something with that emotional depth; something possessed of symphonic edges- put beauty before muscles. It takes a lot of guts and assuredness- making tender and emotive music requires more thought and patience- to deliver on this; go beyond the expected ‘norm.’- and create something that captures the mind (in addition to the heart and body). I love my guitars-turned-right-up-brother kind of sounds: the Rock/Indie/Alternative market is throwing some terrific bands out (including my last review, Archi Deep and the Monkeyshakers). Being influenced by the likes of Arcade Fire, The National and Radiohead- three of my favourite bands; shall touch on this more, anon- the Echo Arcadia-ns produce stunningly evocative sounds; filled with emotion and soul- no wonder they resonate so hard with fans and reviewers. My second point is- shall return to my initial fascination soon- concerns Scottish music. The six-piece hail from Edinburgh- a city that is producing some of the finest up-and-coming bands. From my perennial, obligatory- and downright right-to-reign-supreme- lovelies Universal Thee (their Pavement-cum-Pixies blends are darned wonderful) to Ded Rabbit- a band amassing followers and effusiveness- and their tremendous anthems- the city is showcasing some (wondrous musicians). I touched it on a previous interview- when questioning a Yorkshire-based musician- who said (the reason the county produced so much great music) was the lack of suffocation and shoulder-bumping- you may encounter in London and Manchester (and busier cities). That lesser suffocation; the space and freedom (to conspire, breathe and relax) leads to better music; fewer anxious moments- a more intuitive and organic experience. I think Edinburgh- maybe even compared to Glasgow, say- has that freedom; the engaging and brotherly (music) community; the space to create. I know I bang on about London and its musical splendours- love that city; want to like it all over- but eyes should be trained to Scotland. In addition to being quite overlooked- anything north of Manchester and the music media starts to switch off- the country is producing more variation and quality (in my opinion) than any other part of the U.K. Echo Arcadia are the embodiment of this: a band distinct from the London-scene; indicative (of Scotland’s) growing nursery- where its children have already learnt to run; are a lot more savvy and developed (than their southern peers). Before I get to my last point- and exhaust everyone’s eyes- let’s meet (once more) Echo Arcadia:

Leigh Moyes - Lead Vocals, Rhythm Guitar Tony Dalton - Lead Guitar Euan Mushet - Bass Dan Ciesielski - Drums Andrew Gray - Violin, Vocals Jenna White - Vocals, Synth

“Echo Arcadia make sweet music out of Edinburgh, Scotland. Their unusual mix of gritty rock backbeats, grumbling guitars and catchy pop melodies have gained them a growing fanbase. The seven members' eclectic influences marry to create a fresh alternative to the usual indie-pop/rock fare. The band consists of frontman and rhythm guitarist Leigh, lead guitarist and vocalist Vonny, guitar, vocals and trumpet taken care of by Kevin, Pete on keys and vocals, bassist Euan, Andy on violin and Dan on drums. Following the release of their inaugural 'Broken Chapter's EP in October 2010, the Arcadians have enjoyed an intensive period of gigging, also relishing opportunities to play acoustically, allowing them to hone their sound and take their music to a new audience. 6 months later, they recorded their first single, 'Joker', (made available for download in early March 2011), Edinburgh Spotlight had this to say about it: “Sparkling and freshly polished...the track uses layers of shimmering guitar and Leigh and Siobhan’s atmospheric vocal harmonies to create a multi-faceted little nugget of poppiness. All this builds up to a classic vocal refrain which we guarantee you will be singing in the shower, on the way to work, shopping at the supermarket and everywhere else until all your friends tell you to shut up (or until they get their own copy)." The band are scheduling gigs further afield with aspirations of a UK tour in the near future.”

My last point relates to the band themselves: and, in addition to that, the personalities that come through. A lot of new bands (and those bedded-in) do not win you with their personalities: they come off as gruff or aloof; concerned with the music itself- no need to speak to people, huh? With Echo Arcadia- and what I love about the band- is their friendliness and approachability. Having (had a) line-up reconfiguration- the odd change or two- has not fazed the band- they remain as effervescent and humorous as ever! With their hirsute boys- except the under-fuzzed Tony: needs to get some serious beard-age going on! - and their gorgeous girl, the band compel and fascinate. Their biography (on their official website) illuminates this side: Leigh is scared of submarines; Jenna is preparing for zombie apocalypse (aren’t we all, sister); Tony has a Burger-King-sign-meets-one-testicle-resulting-in-severance nightmare; Andrew’s street-cred. has upped; Euan has a magical bass- and Dan hits things (hope they mean percussion-wise; might want to keep an eye on that). What you get- from their homepage and biographies- is a band filled with life, laughs and love- essentially qualities for any new act. Why, you may ask? Well, when you are a more relaxed and smile-inducing band, better music comes through: you have a complete package; you root for the band more heartedly; are more likely to want to see them live- and thus, remain in their camp.

Before I tackle (the band’s) new song- and get down to the nitty-gritty- it is worth assessing their progress; which acts infuse their sound- what new material sounds like. In terms of new listeners- and where have you been all this time?!- the band list (the below) as influences

Arcade Fire, Radiohead, Biffy Clyro, Death Cab for Cutie, David Bowie, The National, Broken Records, The Smiths; The Cure, The Killers, Echo and the Bunnymen, Vampire Weekend, Pink Floyd, Air, Killing Joke, and Neil Young.

To my ear (the Edinburgh band) are the link between Arcade Fire and The National; they fuse Pink Floyd-elements with David Bowie hints. Those male-female vocal partnerships (that Echo Arcadia’s Leigh and Jenna boast) remind me of early-days Arcade Fire. That intense and naturalistic interplay; the superbly unique (both equally important tones). Relating to the Canadian band, Echo Arcadia have that same sense of danger and ambition- seen across Arcade Fire’ debut Funeral. On that album, euphoria and drama mingled together (sometimes within the same song); the band created something daring and foreign- that engrossed and stunned the critics. Echo Arcadia lace high-drama with something tender and introverted; they can switch between symphonic and detailed. Arcade Fire (on their debut) introduced love codas and rallying calls: songs that belted their intentions; interlinked sonic innovation with nuanced and addictive mantras. Similarly, the band investigated hard-hitting issues- suicide and desperation- and well-worn love themes. Echo Arcadia (on the debut album), displayed that same flair and style: able to go deeper and darker, they always bring it back around; they interweave dizzying compositions with something singular and tender- putting me in mind of the Canadian band. In terms of The National (and Arcade Fire) front-man Leigh- who shares vocal duties more on the band’s new cuts- has those distinct tones: the sonorous and world-aware soul of Matt Berninger (that runs rampant on the American band’s discs) and Win Butler’s lightness and all-empowering directness. The National are masters of downbeat and intense lyrics- that are highly poetic and vivid- matched against gripping compositions. Echo Arcadia are less ‘morbid’- if that is a fair assumption of the band’s material- yet have those same poeticisms and lyrical intelligent; able to create stunning lines and oblique images- all spiraled around deep and engrossing sounds. If you look at Davie Bowie and Radiohead- the former’s Berlin-period work; the latter’s albums Kid A and In Rainbows- you get some comparable beats. Between 1976 and 1979, Bowie’s ‘golden period’ was unveiled- albums including Low and “Heroes” were produced. Low cut the album in half: one half was Rock-driven and more ‘conventional; the other side more experimental. Angular instrumentations and odd beauty united beautifully; the album is challenging and complex; the guitars go between robotic and furious; the synthesisers go from ice-cool to textured- the entire album was a masterwork of style and emotional balance. Echo Arcadia (on their early work; on their current sounds) battle chilled electronics with some jagged guitar lines; compositions that change direction and impression- putting me in mind of Bowie’s 1977 work. By the time of “Heroes”- released the same year as Low- Bowie utilised harder sounds and deeper compositions; more detailed synthesisers and groundbreaking sounds. Echo Arcadia are Bowie acolytes; they have studied his gleaming regency- have created something personal and familiar; their music dips into Bowie’s 1977-era- and matches it with impressive ambition and intuition. Finally Radiohead- Echo Arcadia are fans of U.S. and U.K. bands; varied styles and genres- I am reminded of Kid A and In Rainbows. The former album- released off the back of a glorious 1-2-3 for the Oxford band; after The Bends and Ok Computer- and boasted their most experimental and daring work. Forgoing their Rock-driven past, emphatic and pioneering electronics swam over songs of fractured love; remaining optimistic (in the face of reality-checks) and wanting to disappear- when solace and peace is required. Fast-forward to 2007 and In Rainbows provided another groundbreaking change: the band turned-in one of their greatest achievements. With no wasted moments or songs; heartbreaking beauty and emotion mix-abstract and accessibility nestled alongside one another. Radiohead employed heartbreaking metaphors and vivid imagery- death and suffocation; a trapped animal in a hot car- with songs of desire and a tremendous sonic collage (that married Rock swagger with Synth.-laden/dreamy love songs). Song-orientated and stunningly pretty, Echo Arcadia have considered the challenge: their music puts me in mind of (these two Radiohead) diamonds. Both pioneering and challenging- their synthesiser work runs a gamut of emotions and possibilities; their subject matter fuses optimism with heartache- Kid A aspects come out. If you consider Echo Arcadia’s sense of beauty and accessibility; their fusions of Rock-drive and electronic dreaminess- just listen to their debut album; you get bucket-loads of it.

Since their Beauty in an Average Life phase- when all these artists and albums stunningly come to the fore- the band have remained consistency; yet have introduced new challenges and changes. All that beauty, emotion and sweeping soundscape- that was trickling in every note (of their debut L.P.)- remains intact and pure; if anything there shows greater promise and mobility- perhaps a great sonic depth and emotional richness; some new themes and fresh ambition. The band sound more confident and determined (on their current offerings); more ‘together’ and inspired- building on their early promise; the Scottish band sound completely striking and daring; they ooze quality and nuance- every song possesses stunning details and depth. The changes concern both sound and line-up: the band have incurred a minor shift-around- band members have been promoted; new faces have provided Synth. Sounds- which has not altered their consistency, togetherness and unity- a plight that would befall lesser bands. In spite of some re-workings; Echo Arcadia sound even-more together and relaxed; they seem more natural and ambitious- their new songs (although at the rough-and-ready stage) showcase immense potential. At its heart is the band’s relations and solidity: they are great friends and truly together; completely in-tune and old-friends-jamming-once-again- this radiates in their new material. What this all means- the albums comparisons; the changes/improvements within the ranks- bodes well; pointing towards a huge future- their second L.P. could surpass their debut; it will appeal to loyal fans (the core sound has not shifted too much) and bring in new followers- Jenna’s central/duet vocals breathe new lust and beauty (into the band’s repertoire). The bond between partners (Leigh and Jenna) is at its peak; the band tightness is at it level-best- the music is at its richest and most ambitious.

Recorded in March (among the band’s other upcoming album tracks); Ghosts begins with some haunt and echo- appropriate give its title. Languid, aching strings romantically strain and yearn; backed by a driving and pitter-patter, beat, the song whips up an evocative and tender beginning- eliciting a lot of emotion and beauty (within the first few seconds). Initial lyrics see Leigh step to the microphone; his voice soft and urgent; emotional and shivering. Ghosts are wrapped (around him) like a “winter coat”- you imagine what is being referred to; whether (the ghosts are) memories or simply bad times. Keeping the cold at bay; until “time stands still again”- the images of ghosts and protection are enforced; distinct and vivid images come through. Keeping his voice level and restrained- not letting it needlessly fly or rise- the words are clear and concise; that sense of emotion and determination is clear- you find yourself rooting for the hero. Whether coming off the back of a relationship- maybe love has broken down or ruction has occurred- you start to question and speculate. To my mind, something less tangible is being referenced: perhaps some self-doubt and unhappiness; maybe some sense of vulnerability; what has caused it (I am not sure). Leigh’s voice- in the early phases- reminds me of a cross between Bryan Ferry and Win Butler. There is that romance and breathiness; a calming and soothed tone- packed with plenty of meaning, heart and passion. As you get entranced within the song; dive inside the lyrics- and, subsequently, follow our hero’s plight- the song develops and augments. Spiked and shimmer guitar notes come through- earlier in the song, a beautiful electronic/piano sound backed up the song’s grace and serenity- and instantly transform the mood. From its tender and introspective beginnings, Ghosts starts to climb and evolve: the strings rush and spark; there is a sound of ‘70s Rock greats lingering in the coda (suggestions of Pink Floyd eek through). Joined by Jenna, the vocals unite and rise: the duo’s voices perfectly mingle (within each other); Jenna adds some beauty and enchantment- her voice remains calm and serve; never stealing attention, it perfectly fuses within Leigh’s aching heart. It is said “ghosts sit still and stare at me”- causing the listener to project some rather striking images- and cause anxiety and sadness. Throughout these early moments- and hearing what has come before- you start to wonder its causation and origin: why is our hero in this place? What has enforced these thoughts? The band manages to project that balance of intimacy and grand. The scenes that unfold- spirits hovering; the cold beckoning- are simultaneously epic and personal; universal and unique; each listener can relate to the song; share experiences and similar feeling. Once again- and before you start to predict where the song may be headed- the mood shifts once more; the composition becomes heavier and harder- the percussion hisses and fizzes; the song becomes even more urgent and haunting. With some spectacularly and tender wordless vocals (Jenna’s voice particularly stands out), those shivers increase; an extra layer of beauty is unfolded- you get a real visceral sense of specteralness and ghost-haunting. Adding in some quivering and spirit-inducing electronics/synths., Ghosts earns its most immediate (and title-referencing) hit- that sonic embodiment of the song’s ideals. What Echo Arcadia do so well- and proved so on their debut album- is that ability to switch sound and course; take a song through the heavens without warning- then bring it straight back down. Lesser bands would simply keep on the same course- with regards the vocal and composition sound- yet Echo Arcadia understand the importance of instrumentation and unexpectedness- keeping the listener on their toes; subverting expectations. Those images and metaphors keep coming back in; our duo seem haunted (still)- you wonder whether resolution and answers will be found; what is causing such unrest and investigation. The ghosts pass through “like an open door”; whisper secrets as they go, the vocals (from Leigh and Jenna) remain firm and tender. Like a “debt that can’t be sold”, that mystique and intrigue climbs ever higher: the band keep true revelation at bay; ensure true meaning and genesis is never released. This means the listener is free to interpret and wonder: to my ear, the song is a universal message; designed to appeal to the masses- not one necessarily enforced by individual circumstances. I know the band have had some tough times- some doubts and personal woes- yet the song seems to have a ubiquitous and wide-reaching message: its lyrics and meanings can be extrapolated by all; each listener can relate to an extent- Ghosts is a track that seems like an anthem for the broken-hearted. With the volume and tension at a high- the band come in rushing and hard; tight and fast-flowing- Jenna unveils a sweet-sounding (yet chilling) insight: her heart and soul are laid bare; her vulnerability and fears exposed. Parabonding with herself- Jenna’s backing vocals remain on the scene- you get a layered and transcendent moment; the beauteous and gripping voice hits its peak- and leaves the listener seduced and overcome. Before the track ends its fight, the composition spirals and storms once again: the guitar dizzies and rises; the bass drives the composition forward; the percussion remains strong-willed and leading. It is the electronic notes (synthesiser offerings) that add colour and evocation: that compositional ghost hovers and flies across the night’s sky; its work and damage done- as the band put the song to rest.

Before I mention the band themselves (and their role in the song), it is worth mentioning: this version is a pre-album, ‘demo’ version. Some aspects could change; the overall sound may sound a little different (when the song gets into the studio), but from what is on offer, I would not change a thing. The track sounds fully-formed and ready. Whilst it has that live-sounding feel to it- the band may want something more polished and full- Ghosts is a tantilising and fascinating insight (as to what the band are working on now). I chose the song (to review) because it boasted their merits and hallmarks: those incredible (duel) vocals; the detailed and everyman lyrics- topped off with a stunning band performance. Ghosts’ raw form may want to remain as such- although the band may have different ideas. First of all, it is worth commending the production and sound of the song. Although a ‘Living Room Session’, there is clarity and concision- a lot of acts I have reviewed recently have negated this concern- you can hear the lyrics clearly and sharply; the composition is sharp and colourful- the quality comes through clearly from start to finish. This quality is the result of the band themselves: the performance is consistently tight and impressive; each note and thought is delivered with the utmost sense of importance and passion- there is no wasted moments; no lazy offerings. Leigh has come up with a song (that shows him at his creative peak: clearly inspired and compelled (either by real-life concern or something else) Ghosts is a stunning and nuanced track; one that sounds deeply personal- yet has a voice that speaks to all; lyrics that will resonate and resound. His vocals (throughout) are calming and concentrated; direct and emotive- shades Berninger, Bowie and Butler come through- is ensures the song never slips from the memory; each thought and word is brought to life. Showcasing his lyrical and musical dexterity, our hero has crafted one (the band’s) finest tracks; something intimate and grand- a song that demands repeated listens and fond consideration. I am slightly new to Jenna’s voice; that sensual and soulful vocal- Leigh explained he keen to share the vocals; claims not to be the best singer around (pish!). Whilst Leigh’s voice remains reliably gripping and dramatic; pairing with Jenna is a wise and considered move: the duo sound natural and made-for-one-another (being partners you can hear that connection). Their tones complement one another beautifully: Jenna has an ethereal and sweet quality; plenty of seduction and raw emotion- when it stands alone, you get the biggest emotional reaction. Joining Leigh’s rhythm guitar, Tony’s lead strings realty stand out. Never stealing focus and encroaching at all, what he does is augment and emphasise the mood; add an enormous emotion of energy and mystery- so many colours and possibilities are unveiled. When solo-ing, you get a scintillating and mesmeric sound; you are swallowed-up in its immediacy- he manages to employ so much evocation and weight. Not only (does Tony’s guitar) have its own magic and plaudit; it bonds with the rest of the band; drives the rest of the instruments- becoming more subtle and blended-in when required. Euan’s bass work acts as guidance and backbone: keeping the song supple and focused, he drives it forward; perfectly conjoining with (the drum and guitars) the bass is instilled with colour and personality; rhythm and melody- ample heart and energy. Dan’s drum work impressed me from the first to last (as it did through the band’s debut album). Most of the time, the drum is required to remain subtle and controlled- add a heartbeat and sense of urgency to support the vocals. When the song climbs and explodes, the percussion leads that charge: both granite and combustible, the drum stands out loud and clear; evokes such an amount of grit and influence. Ghosts also boasts some wonderful synths. and strings. With violin (I may be wrong, that is the sound I picked up) adding some romance and shiver-inducing beauty; Ghosts is given a necessary dose of despondency and grace. The strings remain light and tender; just weaving into the background- adding a huge amount of emotion to the track. The synths. really stand out and pervade. During the initial phases, the focus is on the vocals (largely): as the song mutates and expands; the synths. comes in and do their work- the representation of the ghostly spirit; an audible embodiment that certainly creates haunt and coldness. That said, there is also light and energy to be found: the synths., on the one hand, create drama and tension; on the other, there is plenty of charm and wonderment. Overall, Ghosts will please older Echo Arcadia fans (such as myself) as it continues their Beauty’ work- they keep their hallmarks firm; do not radicalise and transform their sound too much. For those new to the band, there is plenty to recommend: the song is perfect for when you’re feeling introspective and thoughtful; it makes the listener imagine and reflect- a powerful and hugely evocative song. Ghosts also has a stand-alone quality: it is a great track that should be played at full volume. Never morbid or overly-emotional, it is a terrific song that reveals new light (across further spins); one of the most stand-out and stunning songs on the scene- I cannot wait to hear it sit on their new album. On that thought, I would recommend you follow Echo Arcadia; check out their progress and going-ons: with a new L.P. coming forth, there is no real excuse. Being such a patron and supporter (of their debut) their new material is both faithful and different: keeping that unimpeachable quality and brilliance, the band is investigating new themes/subjects- Ghosts sees the Edinburgh clan in inspired voice.

Being my second experience with Echo Arcadia- barring a drunken dream we shall never speak of- I have been both surprised and comforted. Having speculated as to their whereabouts- vivid images of zombie apocalypses, Burger King lawsuits and submarine attacks came to mind- I am glad the Edinburgh band is back. As the band explains, they have been hard it; contributing their music to a film (Safe Haven); they have been adding synths. to their work; working busy-busy- putting together their sophomore L.P. Can they top (the staggering) Beauty in an Average Life? Short answer: hell-yeah, course they can, son! To be honest with you- given that album’s impeccable standards- there was not much room for improvement- with their new material, I don’t know, they sound even better! Perhaps re-inspired or energised- by relations within the band or some time away- but the new music (I have been lucky enough to hear) is among their very finest- and this is the ‘demo.-sounding’ tracks coming out. I chose Ghosts- as their album’s standout track/one I think best sums them up now- as it contains all the bands’ hallmarks: those entrancing and emotive vocals (supplied by Leigh and Jenna); the incredible composition- that draws in so much beauty and atmosphere; history and evocation; grandeur and tenderness- and the stunning lyrics (that seem to connect with everyone, somehow). The band themselves make (the music so) gripping: their performances are tight and well-rehearsed; they have such an affiliation and connection- you can hear those solid bonds; that natural (shared affection). This all bodes well for the future: when their new album drops (not sure what it is called yet) I for one will want to get on top of that: dig into its mysteries and warm kisses; untangle its messages and mysteries (or something less pretentious). What Echo Arcadia have done- in addition to pleasing my musical senses- is confirm my deepest beliefs: that Scotland is producing some fine-ass music; showing the U.K. how it’s done- differing from the London/Manchester/Liverpool (predictable; over-exposeed0 co-efficiency. The band has that radiance and cheekiness; those distinct and loveable personalities: a group you want to hang with; lift pints with- share their adventures. When it comes to the music, they are both entrancing and nuanced: their songs grip (upon the first listen) and then keeps giving more- every new spin uncovers something special. Ghosts is a perfect 2015 track: it encapsulates a lot of modern vibes- and what the finer end of the mainstream is producing- and adds warmth and quality to a (let’s face it) somewhat lackluster musical year. It only leaves me to summarise, now- sure you’ll be glad to hear. Having been contacted by Leigh- the band’s leader and all-round nice dude- I was primed for something special: following Beauty in an Average Life; my expectations were high. Having regrouped- or slightly reconfigured- the band have had a creative retreat; put new thoughts to paper- fusing and concocting their new sounds. I can tell you this- and from having the new album (in a nearly-ready form) on my laptop- the signs are all good. Building from their debut- retaining its core sound and qualities- the guys have added new elements (instrumental and lyrical); the vocals are stunning (both Jenna and Leigh offer highly-charged and gorgeous tones); the compositions are rich and colourful- lush and flowing; building and grand. Make sure you check out Ghosts- go to the band’s iTunes page and check their first album out- and buckle your seatbelts: Echo Arcadia will be back hard and fast- sparing no prisoners! It has been great to reconnect with the Edinburgh band- and hope they hit-me-up when the album is released- and assess their new sounds (again, one of my favourite songs from this year). Having spilled my thoughts- and possibly caused pronation of the fingers- it is time to leave the zombie-bashing-testicle-missing-submarine-fearing-thing-hitting band to their business; wish them the fondest- and keep an eye peeled. Back last year- when reviewing their album- that review changed my writing; made me more hopeful and deep- their music broke the boundaries of (the music I was used to) hearing. This year, I have heard a lot of terrific music- more varied and impressive than last year- but Echo Arcadia have done it again: connected with a part of me (I thought had dissipated). Whether it is their particular music brand; their kinship and warmth (something else, perhaps) - those Scots always strike me hard. Anyway, have a listen/investigation; dive into their creative annals and…

BE sure to snap-up their forthcoming album!

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