'Continental Shelf' from the Canadian angst-indie boys forms part of their new self-titled album released on the 20th of January.
The track has a slightly retro feel, but is more like the finer music the 80’s had to offer than the cheesy, lowest common denominator synth-pop of the time.
Bunnymenesque guitars lead into sonic noise distortion riffs, the backing for vocals which seem at first slightly disengaged then suitably tortured as the song progresses. The track is held together by the drum rhythm, providing a framework for the various layers of vocal, guitar and synth. There are hints of Bauhaus here. Having said this, I never felt this was a re-run or even a homage to past glories. This is an original, well-crafted piece of stand-alone music. The eerie video re-enforces the aura of angst and disenchantment. Indie rock for the disenfranchised.
If the rest of the album lives up to the promise of this track it should make an interesting and absorbing addition to your January playlist.
RIFFED's Rating: 8/10
Listen to 'Continental Shelf' via YouTube:
Posted by Roxy Gillespie.
RIFFED x