There Goes the Fear, a UK/US Music Web site | Live UK gigs, news, and events

(SXSW 2014 flavoured!) Bands to Watch #295: The Melodic

South London band The Melodic have just finished touring America with Johnny Flynn and The Sussex Wit in support of their debut full length album, ‘Effra Parade’. The album’s American release on Anti- Records was on the 5th of November 2013; it will be available in the UK on the 24th of February, according to the band’s Facebook page. For now, The Melodic appear to be focusing on the American side of the pond, ahead of their scheduled appearance at SXSW 2014.

The Melodic’s international-flavoured folk pop was undoubtedly a perfect compliment for Flynn’s darker but equally electic folk style. ‘Effra Parade’ is a light and jaunty mix of carefree melodic lines, casual vocal harmonies and diverse instrumental textures. While musically whimsical, the songs’ thoughtful lyrics often deal with larger intellectual topics, such as the Pinochet-era political turmoil in Chile in ‘Ode to Victor Jara’. (See the wonderfully creative video for that track below.)

[youtube]http://youtu.be/9tA3L6z0JL0[/youtube]

First single ‘On My Way’, released on an EP of the same name, is a bit more generally relatable, with its lively percussion and optimistic lyrics about moving forward in life. Already getting airplay on BBC 6music, it’s a catchy kind of tune that sticks in your head after just one listen, but it’s pleasant enough that you’ll probably want to listen twice anyway.

Principal songwriters Huw Williams and Rudi Schmidt cite their Brixton upbringing as a major influence on their music, particularly their early exposure to to a wide range of musical styles, including ’60s and ’70s era folk revival records. ‘Effra Parade’ was recorded in a soundproofed bedroom in Schmidt’s childhood home, with band members John Naldrett, Lydia Samuels, and James McCandless rounding out the ensemble of 18 instruments and various vocal combinations. Their relaxed, straightforward performance style should translate easily to the festival atmosphere in Austin, as well as anticipated UK tour dates later in the year.