Antoine Architeuthis
Album: That Evening On The Hill
Label: Self Released
Tracks: 5
Website: http://www.antoinearchiteuthis.bandcamp.com

Considering this guy’s CV, I’m surprised I’ve not encountered his music before – for it’s both captivating and markedly individual. Over the years, Antoine has performed in bands of a bewildering variety of genres, and supported established acts from Ellie Lawson, Colin Farley and Sam Blue to Alabama 3 and the Undercover Hippy. Antoine’s own particular brand of acoustic-based folk is centred around the sound of the Irish bouzouki, and is clearly also influenced by various forms of traditional music from Ireland to eastern Europe.

Rhythm is as important as melody, and there’s a constant sense of drive and forward momentum to his songs that’s complemented by the full and vibrant sound achieved. Whereas on stage Antoine makes inventive use of a loop station and effects pedals, here on this EP he calls upon Rich Mason (guitars) and a small number of other instrumentalists and backing vocalists including Marina Polito for extra support.

All five songs are self-penned and generally reflective and philosophical in nature, the title track inevitably forming the key calling-card and possibly the most compelling item, although the closing, eastern-inflected Soul Cycle runs it close. Antoine’s conviction in his craft is strong, and he communicates this well; his work grabs the ears, for this is not music for background listening and it deserves attentive listening.

David Kidman