Shy Around Strangers EP

Released August 25th 2012

NYC band Shy Around Strangers create the kind of music that would not have sounded out of place in the dark clubs of the 80s, all romantic grooves, gritty basslines and melodic synths. Singer Emily delivers husky vocals that hover the line between sexy and scary over alluring guitar work and smokey drums. Discordant chimes vie with raw textures, creating a complex yet totally awesome set of tunes.
Their eponymous EP is out just in time to counteract post bank holiday blues, and this track, Never Look Down, a perfect introduction.

Reviewed by Francesca Baker

We’ve been a fan of Arcadian Kicks for a while, with their angst fuelled power, party perfect melodies and riffs that swell and astound. You may have heard You Play The Girl on the recent Gap campaign (and if you like it, head to the band’s facebook page for a free download.) Recently the Birminghham based five piece have been working and recording with Mike Chapman, the legendary producer of Blondie’s classic albums, amongst many others, and new single I Wanna Take You Home one of the fruits of that label, the relentlessly solid rhythm taking more of a dance step than before and Becky’s vocal delivery more direct and deliberate, although the trademark yelps are still chucked in to gloriouseffect. From the gorgeous opening notes that quiver like silk yet are as sharp as steel, cutting lyrics ‘hear the rain pour down on you and your whore’ and relentless grind to the guitar, this is sure to widen their fan base. It’s also on Amazing Radio’s audition playlist, so make sure you head over and vote for it.
The Arcadian Kicks – I Wanna Take You Home (Released 22nd Jan 2012) by One Beat Records