On Thursday November 3rd, The Stag And Hounds in Bristol provided a stellar lineup from the likes of Juey, Stressechoes, and Wires. For me, the night featured an average chicken burger, walking 20 minutes in a circle for a cash machine, cheap cider, and more importantly 3 great sets from the acts playing that evening. The headliners Wires, a local Bristol band, offered an impressive set full of atmospherics, shifting tones, and crowd engaging melodies . Make of that what you will, but it made those of us in the audience/ other bands sit up and pay attention, and ultimately grab a copy of the bands EP, To Conquer The Waves.
The EP itself contains only 3 tracks, but holds such a presence and depth that the listener cant help but replay the whole thing again and again. This presence is identified quickly as opening track 'Vine & Valour' bursts into life with thrashy guitars, punchy bass and fidgeting drums, and doesn't let off as the track meanders through soft and loud moments punctuated by the lyric "resisting the urge of gravity..." to truly set the tone here. This is followed by the more grand and brooding lilt of 'Victor', again a mood changing piece which floats along with a cheeky walking guitar melody accompanied by a hurried yet gentle rhythm section. Drawing similarities to other bands, or suggesting potential influences for Wires would be an error at this point, but the Mansun fan in me does hold a soft spot for 'Victor''s murky atmospheric verses. The EP closes on the more subdued 'Annie' which plods along with a delicate yet familiar piano line, which crescendos with twinkling drums and moans, setting the scene for the bittersweet tale of regret and dreams. Having enjoyed the track played live, I was happy to see it featured on the EP, with all its delicacies.
Check out the band at www.wearewires.com and grab your own copy of 'To Conquer The Waves' for only £3! Enjoy!
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