Feldspar
Album: The Flat and Paper Sky Vol. 1
Label: Self Released
Tracks: 5
Website: http://www.feldsparmusic.co.uk

It's easy to lose track of all the exciting, shiny new things that come with a glossy 'Made in London' label, comparing themselves to some ancient God and claiming sliced bread has got nothing on them. Feldspar are the newest of sparkly subjects to arrive from the Smoke and they are probably as far removed from ego-dom as you could yet. Please don't think 'oh good, another new band' and cast them aside. Instead, give up 20 minutes of your day to hear their debut EP 'The Flat and Paper Sky' and you'll see what I mean.

Describing themselves as 'bluesy art-folk', Feldspar have succeeded in producing a batch of tracks that delve into your brain, lighting a fire and putting their feet up for the duration. 'Let the Time Run' is a gentle lap of waves against your ears. Folky for sure, the strains of 'Winter Winds' and 'Nothing Ever Happens' make their ghostly appearances but not as a distraction, more as kindling for the growing flames. As sweet as it definitely is, you don't expect the lyric 'you were too young for sadness and I was too ugly for sex'. Somehow though, the story being told holds this comic line comfortably and doesn't dwell.

'Cressida' takes on a sadder tone, with its sorrowful tune and military style drums accompanying lead vocalist Will's pained voice. He sounds bruised by the songs encounter, trying his utmost to become the victor not the victim. It's a clarion call to all those who recognise the suffering in his voice as if it's their own. Deep stuff. The torment continues into 'The Rest', with Will's anguish drifting into a space reserved for 'tortured souls only'.

'Lady Danger' brings some gorgeous electric guitars to life that mixes surprisingly well with the folk beat and provides the listener with a refreshing difference. It's the track that makes you want to grab a partner by the hand and start the dance.

Feldspar know what suits each track and use it beautifully, the culmination of everything they do showcased on closing track 'Shadow'. Effortlessly gentle, its humbleness is graceful as the song departs, leaving you with a sense of relaxation and warm sadness as you realise the EP is complete. Told you that 20 minutes was well worth it didn't I?

Emma Sutherland