What a crackerjack of a debut from the London Trio, Vanity Tapes. It has a very UK 60s feel due to the wonderful organ sound. But there is a big dollop of Psych Pop, but also the album heads into the likes of Dream Pop and much more.
There is a really splendid vibe due to excellent vocals of Jim Collett. Collett has a really unusual vocal in that he can adapt it to whatever the song requires. At times it can be Lloyd Cole, at others Al Stewart. It is always gentle, imagine the fruitiness of say Kevin Ayers and you get some idea.
Then there is the songs themselves and what a ride you are about to embark on. Portmanteau is pure Canterbury, yet 132 is Farfisa led UK Beat with a twist, yet Smoke On Mirrors is half way between XTC and Sparks.
Mercury is gentle Indie Pop, whilst Smoke And Mirrors is like an Indie version of Lounge, a little Bryan Ferry at times. Isolation is in Orange Juice territory with a Paisley Pop instrumental tint. Parade is pure Prog.
The Illusionist is incredibly atmospheric and melancholic with a haunting riff, Wood For The Trees edges towards Psych Folk. Slow Motion even hints at a Morrissey direction with a completely surprising Guitar solo. You are in for quite a ride as the band take you gently through an almost pastoral album.
Tastefully done with some stunning arrangements. Beautifully played with unusual riffs and themes that completely engross you. The depth of the album is amazing. Vanity Tapes aren't gonna rock your socks off, but they will reach out for your senses and grab a hold of them. Oh and that vocal is a thing of such beauty. Highly Recommended!
You can listen to and buy the album here.
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