Under The Bridge - Compilation for fans of Sarah Records

Released: 18 Mar 2022
Label: Skepwax Records

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This is a superb compilation, featuring the new music of bands from the legendary indie pop label - Sarah Records. The Catenary Wires are amongst the many artists to feature here, whose album - Birling Gap was a highlight of last year.   

It opens with The Luxembourg Signal, who I'm not overly familiar with (something I should amend). The song has very chilled, laid back vibes and hints of C86 and Dreampop.  

My favourite here is Even As We Speak - Begins Goodbye. The band are from Sydney and have been making indie pop records since the 80s. The song is very upbeat and catchy, and one to enjoy on repeat.  

Other highlights include St Christopher - Stornaway, which is superb 80s sounding jangle with memorable hooks. There were hints of Aztec Camera, Orange Juice e.t.c. 

Jetstream Pony - Strood McD F.C. is very Summery and anthemic 3 minute pop. It features the vocals of Beth Arzy who is also in the Luxembourg Signal. Sepiasound - Arcadian is a beautifully orchestral, and very moving instrumental. The Catenary Wires - Wall of Sound is indie pop of the highest standard and a lot of fun.

A really enjoyable compilation with a superb selection of artists and a variety of sounds.  Highly recommended for fans of 80s indie pop/jangle.

The Catenary Wires - Birling Gap

Released: 18 June 2021
Label: Skep Wax Records/Shelflife Records

Listen and Buy Here

UK indie pop band - The Catenary Wires, are a new discovery for me. The group includes Amelia Fletcher and Rob Pursey, who have played in the bands - Heavenly and Talulah Gosh. Their new album is wonderfully melodic with dreamy harmonies, separating them from other indie pop acts. 

It opens with 'Face on the Rail Line' which is superbly atmospheric and so beautiful it drew me in straight away. It has an ethereal quality which is hard to describe, you just have to listen to it really! Their overall sound brought to mind Saint Etienne, and the 80s indie of The Go-Betweens. 

Other highlights on the album include 'Always on my Mind' which is more upbeat and Summery. There are hints of The Beach Boys too. 'Mirror Ball' is a highly enjoyable love song, reminiscing about the 80s, with quirky lyrics - "Be Jason to my Kylie". 

'Canterbury Lanes' is more memorable indie pop with superb harmonies. The album ends on 'The Overview Effect' which is sweet guitar pop at its finest. It has vivid, wistful lyrics full of regret - "If we put the chances we had thrown away into a room, it would be the biggest room we ever knew".

A wonderful album, full of nostalgia, with melodic well-written songs. Highly recommended.