THE 405 ALBUM REVIEW:
'A while ago I wrote the following press release for the SeaZora:
"From the beauty of fantasy film scores, the heritage of grass roots British ballads, the romance of European waltz, and the legends inspired by the natural world, comes one of London's most promising contemporary folk bands, The SeaZora. The sound that they produce is a symphony of blissful harmonising vocals, and delicate string and wind instruments, with enchanting percussion. Making what seems like a constant ode to the fields, the forests, the spirits and the land, the SeaZora summon a perfect chimera for every listener. Their forthcoming album, White Bear, embodies every value and inspiration that can be drawn from great stories and arrangements created by composers such as Joe Hisaishi, creator of the Studio Ghibli soundtracks, and small folk orchestras like Beirut. Artists of such talent bring together elements of many cultures and create some of the most endearing pieces of music known to man. The SeaZora follow this example and with their new release will make a movingly effective contribution to their scene."
Now that White Bear has been released, it backs up every claim that I've made in the statement. This first record of theirs shows all of their clear influences and muses made special by each performer's skilled musicianship and vocal capabilities. There is a recurring blissful effect on the album that can be most associated with the SeaZora, and that is the echo left in the wake of the groups' voices. It's this echo that wraps the album in an autumnal ambiance, linking the drum that bangs in 'Seraph's Plain', the flute and oboe that dance in 'The Trees Grant Life' and the piano that waltzes in 'Mon Ami'.
'Mon Ami' in particular is one of the most beautiful songs that I have heard this year. It is not just the contrast between the delicate, French female voice and the deep, English male voice that accentuates the romance of the song, but also the turns that the piano takes, which can place the listener in a Ghibli-esque world.
Considering it's the work of an unsigned, relatively unknown band (well, Robin Pecknold from Fleet Foxes did say they're rad), White Bear is a must listen. Easily overlooked amongst the many high caliber contemporary folk bands, it deserves our attention.
9/10' - Will Slater
deivi 1 year ago
Evolver Soul 2 years ago
Dolores 2 years ago
Chi Limpiroj
If you ever come up to play around Manchester let me know and I'll be there with bells on.
Hopefully I'll see you guys sometime soon/we cross paths, if Chris still puts us on at the Arts Club, I might see you then! Chi xxx
2 years ago
Finn Ryder 2 years ago
We Are Swift 2 years ago
Finn Ryder Hey man,
2 years ago
rica minami 3 years ago
Elephant Parade
It put me in a really good mood. I think it's the best recording I've heard of you guys.
Really really like it, especcially the new drum beat section:D keep it up.
xxxx Orlando
3 years ago
GryaD//NAXOPROD 3 years ago
10 of 17MoreReally good guys!!! Hope to see u soon. Thanks
You've all captured and nurtured a pretty special blend of beautiful here.
Don't you dare stop.
Hi guys! I enjoyed your lil set at the Union chapel. You've got a very good double bassist! Hope you like my demos. Dolores
Ahh you guys were so mesmerising at YNot...Been listening to your songs tonight, really really need to get myself a copy of your album soon. I have Green Man festival to look forward to in a few weeks though, so I'm a little on the poor side at the moment though...
Ah new tracks are too good! Definately my favorite album at the moment...
Big up.
x
YES BROTHER WE SHALL STORM THE WHY NOT FESTIVAL!!!!!!!
The new song is ridiculous! Especially loving the jazzy instrumental in the middle section..
Please can you e-mail it to me so I can have it on my I-tunes?
Let me know if your around tomorow and we can hang out!
Big love.
x
Hi everyone, that was amazing night!! thank you!! hopefully see you all guys soon and I'm looking forward your new Album! :)
Hey Guys. I was just listening to the live recording of trees grant life.
excellent!!!!