There is so much fantastic music being produced at the moment, with country and punk influences (just to name a few), that some gems are easy to miss. Midding, on the other hand, set themselves apart with their newest EP and establish their Psychocandy sound.
Opener “All For You” emphasises the Jesus And Mary Chain influence with the relaxed vocal delivery and fuzzy guitar solo. The bass takes us on a post-punk walk around the rhythm of the track before the band flips their sixties psychedelic switch and turns the dirge into a shiny gold crescendo.
“Nuisance” brings us into that familiar alt-country sound of the Silver Jews/Mj Lenderman lineage. Alongside “For A Little While”, the vocals take a turn for the Gallagheresque. The nasal power of lead singer Joe Woodward gives the tracks a hard edge within which the band make their twists and turns. Creation Records bleeds through this album; Alan McGee, if you’re listening, I’ve found your next favourite band.
Another switch flips, and it’s the summer once again. “Sunshine” provides a hot and hazy feeling, as if Brian Jonestown Massacre are treating us to a summer #1. The sound is like the dustbowl, recalling South Wales Valleys summers spent roasting in a field and looking upon abandoned businesses, garages and burned out buildings. The track sets a scene that fuses the post-industrial cross-Atlantic landscapes.
After 20 minutes of playing it cool, the band let’s rip and play themselves out to a picture-perfect finish with “.44”. A total masterclass in all things loud and moody that has already earned them attention from the likes of Huw Stephens and Adam Walton. We already await what comes next.