There are two bands called Barbara that we adore. The American one who add Brass to songs that are experimental and all soundscape. Their second album, So This Is Living has been in out 10 most popular Reviews for the past 4 months or so.
Then equally appealing are the Brighton brothers John and Henry Tyldeman who follow a much more different Pop direction. Their second EP, Happy Days, was more of a mini album (our review is here ) and now we have the debut album and what a cracker it is.
They've toured with both The Divine Comedy and Haircut 100, so you can guess where they fit in. This is Pop Rock of the highest quality, easily directed to Soft Rock and Indie Pop, incredibly harmonic vocally with big arrangements and lyrical adeptness, but most importantly, fun.
The brothers write the songs, John handles the vocals, Henry the keyboards, but the group itself mould together to make these arrangements work. They were first brought to attention due to long time Anything Should Happen favourite, Paul Steel producing via the Brighton connection and he does a sterling job of producing and mixing here. His Pop Rock chops aid the impressive harmonies.
These songs take on multi directions in the same song. There are plenty of examples, but the masterpiece that is The Contended Commuter is the best example. A little Indiscreet era Sparks in parts, it chops and changes at random, almost three or four songs in one.
At times, there is a slight Jellyfish feel at others 70s Pop Rock. There is also a slight vaudeville feel which provides a wonderful eccentric feel. There is so much to impress here. Pop songs built up into cracking variety and quirks. Go Buy! Magnificent.
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You can listen to and buy the album here. The album is available on Vinyl, CD and as a download. You can find more about the band here.
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