Fatherson’s
profile has been steadily on the rise since the 2011 release of their self-titled
EP, which was followed by a string of support slots with bands
such as Feeder, Frightened Rabbit and fellow King Tuts label mates Twin Atlantic.
Furthermore, they sold out their own headlining release show at Glasgow’s
King Tuts Wah Wah Hut and wrapped up last year with a BBC Radio 1 Introducing
Live Session. Not a bad way to lead into 2012.
Hailing originally
from Kilmarnock, the three piece is currently based in Glasgow and boasts a
sound rooted in alternative rock with a focus on pop sensibilities. Upcoming
single First Born shows that the band
have mastered the loud-quiet dynamic which makes pop music so compelling,
restraining themselves during the verses before plunging in and giving it their
all during the choruses. The verses race along on a tight rhythm section provided
by Marc Strain on bass and Greg Walkinshaw on drum, while Ross Leighton sings
over the punchy, staccato rhythm guitar. The verses then progress into visceral
walls of sound in the chorus with a catchy refrain, and alternate between these
until the song’s climax.
Oddly enough, I
find uplifting b-side Kiteers a more
compelling listen. It is a majestic piece of powerpop with a more prominent
use of the loud-quiet dynamic which the band excels in. Marc holds down a
driving bass line while Ross fills the space with his yearning vocals. The band
then drops into the chorus where Ross’s falsetto vocals soar over the aural
assault of crashing drums and wailing guitars. The melodic interlude breaks
into a spacious last verse occupied solely by Ross’s soft vocals and guitar, before
the rest of the instruments come back with a vengeance for the final uplifting
chorus.
Overall this
strong single shows that Fatherson have developed a tight sound which will no doubt land them a lot more radio play in the months to come.
First Born will be
released on the 9th April through King Tuts Recordings.
JM
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