Alternative psychedelic dream pop band Swervedriver release their first new music in over five years since the release of 2018’s `Future Ruins` recorded by the band with help from TJ Doherty, Ride’s Mark Gardener, and Rick Beato. `The World’s Fair` EP offers original songs with two tracks recorded with Mark Gardener from Ride and the other two recorded by YouTube star Rick Beato.
This extended play opens with `Pack Yr Vision` which opens gently and becomes a weaving dreamlike and illusive composition with shimmering guitar riffs. There`s some melodic harmonies and from the halfway mark the number becomes more contemplative and at times trancelike before fading out. There`s a more radiant texture to `Volume Control` which for me had a kind of sci-fi vibe and depicted the feeling of a journey being undertaken. There are orchestrated strings and piano keys in the latter section from guest musicians Calina de la Mare, Sarah Willson and Will Foster as the number gains a heavier quality and character.
Title track `The World’s Fair is fairly piano driven with Will Foster adding his talents. There seemed to be a lot going on musically and the track felt a little labyrinth like and elaborate veering towards being psychedelic. This four track offering closes with `Time Attacks` a final introspective musing with glistening guitar chord riffs and tender vocals drifting above and throughout this dreamy absorbing submission.
I have to say it was really good to hear new music from Adam Franklin (guitar vocals), Jim Hartridge (guitar), Mick Quinn (bass) and Mikey Jones (drums, percussion) who have been the mainstays for almost the last decade. A group who weren`t really appreciated back in the day and just perceived to be simply another “shoegaze” band which is so off the mark. A new album must hopefully be on the horizon and the possibility of dates in the UK a mouth watering prospect.
Rating 8.5/10
