Tragicomics are Christopher Eatough (vocals, guitar), Toby Cryne (guitar, keys), Laura Morley (violin) and Jay Fearon (drums).
Sometimes, when you review a song, or album, by a band you don’t know, you are just so glad that you did! I gave “Stranger Things” a play, and “stranger things might happen all the time,” but I loved it. This was a whole lot of fun, it was lyrically enjoyable, and the music swayed between this little melodic, cherry rhythm and a bit of honky tonk piano. It headed straight onto my playlist, as, for sure, I want to hear it again!
It was released on April 21st, and the download for it is here. I was a little late sending the review in, as I have had a few to do recently – (message to Mark and Benny – I’m overworked!).
The single is country rock with a swing, you could certainly dance to it, and it has a video coming out soon that is a lot of fun (although I am a little unsure about the goat). an official music video by LA visual artist Maria A. Norris, which combines elements of stop motion with vintage Americana footage. There is no doubt that Tragicomics have strong creative ethics, making sure that each aspect of their release is a showcase for rich artistry; this includes the artwork for the single, an original painting by acclaimed artist Jude Wainwright.
We have one of their early videos below for those wanting to dip into the sound.
If you don’t know the band, and I didn’t, Tragicomics are an alt-country collective from the northwest of the UK and self-professed purveyors of sharply crafted pop songs, sweeping melancholy, and doomed romanticism. The four-piece return with their brand new single “Stranger Things,” which is very much an uplifting country-infused offering that flaunts a swinging vocal line and introspective lyrics alongside a sonically rich soundscape.
Tragicomics, photo by Louis Garbutt
Speaking about the inspiration behind the song, Tragicomics shared, “Stranger Things is a song about paralysis. Paralysis through indecision; waiting around for a change to come, and being unwilling – or unable – to make that change yourself. Nights spent staring into the sky, waiting for an answer that will never arrive. Realising your own faults and that there is no overcoming them.”
The track was recorded at Pinhole Studio, where the band used some very old and well-loved gear – including an original 60s tape delay and a vintage Leslie speaker – to capture some of the old-time country feel of the tune. It was mixed by Adam Gorman and mastered by Frank Arkwright (The Smiths, New Order, Joy Division, Scott Walker) at Abbey Road, and features Matt O’Brien on bass.
As a last word – I want more !
By Lorraine Foley
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