The English DIY-rock band from Hampshire ECHOTAPE have announced the release of their new album titled “Wicked Way” out 29th July with a launch event at London Sebright Arms on 28th July to celebrate.
It’s an album that presents eleven summer favorite hymns produced and re-recorded by the band over a three-month period of inventive craftsmanship that took place in the band’s own home studio. It’s fair to say that most of these songs have already been released as singles/tracks in the past, before being souped up and laid down.
We had a listen:
The album starts with a song that seems harvested from the vintage blues era: “All My Days.”
The number also includes a circumventing punkstyle beat. Then there is that carefully gauged rock ‘n’ roll guitar and a country-folk chorus that is almost guaranteed to ensure that this song reaches a broader audience. My oh my, this is spiffing brilliant !
“Whiskey Bar” is one of the older numbers. It is crisp and loud. With a call melody that goes from husky vocalisation to minstrel yell.
And the overlapping range between singing and guitar is really exciting. Despite all this, and the fact that it has a strong musical cry, it is still quite romantic “If I can’t have you then I don’t want anyone else.”
“We’ve Been Dreaming” is a lovely song about getting older and becoming lonely. The video that accompanies it [see below] is a charming animation by Michael Bidinger and Michelle Kwon. This has a steady clappy beat and vocals that range from deep crimson to pale rose without losing masculinity, muscularity or courage. This is touching, full of respect, wisdom and spirit.
“See You Soon” is a slow-building number that grows with a super-catchy hook and the kind of effervescent scintillation from guitar that gives you emotion-bumps all over your body.
The voice is warm and exuberant. And the lyrics are amazing “Who will be the captain of these vessels in your heart?”
This is an astonishing achievement, stuffed full with inventive lyrics, subtle songcraft, intelligent music and great production.
For fans of folk rock / indie folk, such as Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros.
Expected Release: Jul 29, 2016 pre-order here: Wicked Way
Words: @neilmach 2016 ©
Link: https://www.facebook.com/Echotape/
RAW RAMP 
One Comment