Welcome to another edition of Monday Threesome, where we bring you several bands that fit within a particular theme or genre. The three groups we selected for this week all feature distinctive, theatrical vocal stylings. While their instrumentation may be very different and distinctive, the big, passionate voices are truly what make them stand out and blend together.
Your Ex-Lover is Dead – Stars // Buy
Definitely in the running for most romantic band in indie-rock, Stars (@montrealstars) have been delivering quality records for over a decade. The group, which is is deeply influenced by synth-pop sounds from the 80s, uses that instrument to make their songs epic and lush, while releases such as Set Yourself on Fire prove that they’re not afraid to incorporate dance elements. The two lead singers, Torquil Campbell and Amy Millan, truly masters of the duet that write for each other’s strengths, know how to bring dramatics into both their lyrics and their performances. Their NPR page features a Tiny Desk concert, which is a particularly intimate trio performance (two vocals and an acoustic guitar). Stripped off all the horns, keyboards and a rhythm section. the songs are just as beautiful with naked harmonies. Not to mention, the playful banter is pretty fun to watch.
On the Water – Future Islands // Buy
Future Islands (@futureislands) are an incredibly intense band. While they may incorporate more of an avant garde sound in their brand of pop (check out the Tom Waits vocals on “Tin Man”), their songs can also be beautiful and lush. Sam Herring can definitely unhinge his sound, and the tonal range he brings to the album is fairly amazing. Once again, NPR has some incredible live work by this band including another Tiny Desk concert and a live performance at Brooklyn’s Shea Stadium. While the first captures a more intimate setting, perfect for the uniquely beautiful voice of Herring, the show at Shea Stadium better captures the power of their stage presence. Both performances are absolutely wonderful.
Colossus – WIM // Buy
See You Hurry – WIM // Buy
WIM (@wimtheband) has recently garnered a number of comparisons to Rufus Wainwright, though I hear a bit of Antony & the Johnsons in their lead vocals as well. These depictions, however, don’t provide a very accurate impression of the group’s overall songwriting style. They lack the old school Tin Pan Alley, Broadway or Classical influences that those artists use, instead providing a moody, hushed and stark sound. They sometimes break out the power pop and jaunty piano (“Something for You”), but very often the instrumentation is limited to quiet drums with subtle piano and guitar parts. You can purchase their debut album here, or stream it in its entirety on the band’s soundcloud page.