Tag Archives: new sound

Jape – Ocean Of Frequency

by

0

Jape – Ocean of Frequency.

Hands up all those who like to indulge in a bit of 80s reminiscence from time to time?

Well, look no further than Jape’s latest release, Ocean of Frequency. A definite must for fans of electronic rock and laudable pop alike, this superbly crafted album is certain to make its way onto many a favourite playlist the world over.

Hailing from Dublin, four piece Jape deliver a brilliant blend of nostalgic and contemporary sound with this release, which deservedly earned them the highly coveted Meteor Choice Music “Irish Album of the Year” Award in 2012, their second behind 2008 release, “Ritual”.

With credibility like that, this release is sure to secure Jape their place as one of Ireland’s best exports.

Peppered with infinitely sticky hooks and laid-back synth instrumentation, Ocean of Frequency embodies a collection of varied and catchy arrangements that will keep you interested from go to whoa.

From the short and sweet ‘An Hallucination’, weighing in at the sub-minute mark, to the effortlessly persuasive ‘Borrowed Time with Peace’, through to the uncomplicated sound of ‘Scorpio’, the album’s many different direction changes showcase frontman Egan’s inherent musical brilliance.

There are honestly so many highlights on this album, even with tracks like the beautifully subtle ‘It’s Shadow Won’t Make Noise’, listeners will be hard pressed to select just one as their favourite.

A thoroughly enjoyable listen, Jape have decisively hit the ball out of the park with this record. All kinds of wonderful, “Ocean of Frequency” is a truly a great album from start to finish.

8 out of 10.

Review also featured on ToneDeaf: http://www.tonedeaf.com.au/reviews/new-music/191823/ocean-frequency.htm

Sarah Mary Chadwick – Eating for Two

by

0

Sarah Mary Chadwick – Eating for Two

If you’re the type of listener who enjoys a challenging and provocative sound, then this is definitely the album for you. Raw and untainted, Sarah Mary Chadwick’s first solo release Eating For Two is nothing short of confronting and will likely leave you a little unsure of how you feel about it.

Formerly of 3-piece band Batrider, New Zealand-born Chadwick’s move into the realm of solo artistry has created a platform to encourage a distinct and uncomplicated sound. Completely stripped-back, Chadwick unveils a sense of vulnerability drawing you in with a very much raw and un-engineered approach, something rare in today’s technological age.

Not for the faint hearted, Eating For Two exudes an unmistakable post-grunge feel, which is best served cold. Newcomers will no doubt latch on to ‘Fools Like Me’ which provides a degree of comfort in its familiarity, especially after testing the waters with ‘Just Like Holding Shards’ which is about as exposed and unapologetic as it gets.

Pitchy in places, this track offers a somewhat curious appeal even in the face of lyrics like “it’s just like holding shards of bloody bits of glass/ I’m testing myself to see how much pain I can stand.”

If you’re looking for a tight and upbeat sound, then sorry kids, this one ain’t for you. Sure only to appeal to a select audience, even the persistent and dedicated will struggle to connect with this album. Eating For Two is a hard listen but for the brave; potentially rewarding in its simplicity.

Rating: 5 out of 10.

http://sarahmarychadwick.bandcamp.com/

Review also featured on ToneDeaf: http://www.tonedeaf.com.au/reviews/new-music/186691/eating.htm