Tag: EP Release

Dan Bettridge Releases EP ‘Good People. Bad Habits’

Dan Bettridge Releases EP ‘Good People. Bad Habits’

by Rebecca Llewellyn ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

The most experimental and groundbreaking of his work to date. Dan Bettridge has made a fierce return to music, in the run up to latest EP ‘Good People. Bad Habits.’

Lyrically immersing himself in new depths, whilst musically reaching new heights. Bettridge has boldly tread into unexplored territory, harnessing newfound vocal effects, an array of instruments and an unhindered style of songwriting. All of which cumulate, to produce an EP that is earth-shatteringly good.

Lead single Habitat initially arrived in January, and set the pace for how Bettridge planned to take 2021 by storm. Its explorative, synth infused sound removes any acoustic-shackled-perceptions we had previously associated with Bettridge. Opening our ears to not only a different sound, but to a different side of this intriguing musician. All the while, being completely unsure of which direction he is about to take next.

As cutting lyrics pierce through on second release L.A.F.E. Bettridge pours out a dreamlike jangle of hooks, that meet with haunting harmonies. Looking inwards, pondering life, love and identity in a way that we have never heard before.

Penultimate single Sign soars with emotional empathy. Softer in style than previous releases, L.A.F.E and Habitat. Bettridge revisits his roots, merely in sound alone, as the track provides such a powerful emotive catharsis. Incapable to compare to any prior release. This symbolic step backwards in sound, is a bold step forward for Bettridge. A mirror image reflection, that remains similar, but somehow changed in so many ways.

Closing ‘Good People. Bad Habits’ with who am I? Bettridge nods to a past, present and future self. As acoustic strings lace against lovelorn lyrics, memories evoke and vocals ponder. There is a comforting warmth, yet a brisk biting realisation. As “who am I?” proves itself to be the perfect closing question. Bettridge has embraced a brand new side to his music and ploughed through personal progression on ‘Good People. Bad Habits.’ Yet as human as you and I, Bettridge remains linked to days gone by and fleeting pangs of what has passed. Truly capturing the notion – who am I?

As sweet in sentiment, as it is in sound. Dan Bettridge has delivered an EP that stuns. Steeped in memories but pulled forward by the future. It is surely a catalyst toward the bright beacons that await not only such a talented multi-instrumentalist musician, but a soul-stirring songwriter.

Stream ‘Good People. Bad Habits.’ on all platforms now via Channel Analog Records

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Campfire Social Release New EP ‘Everything Changed’

Campfire Social Release New EP ‘Everything Changed’

by Rebecca Llewellyn ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

An EP from Welsh indie-quintet Campfire Social has been highly anticipated for some time now. Following the stirring buzz that swarmed from singles released throughout 2020 and early 2021. Latest EP release ‘Everything Changed’ encapsulates the excitement and intoxicating energy that has exuded from their music.  

Taking a big bite out of 90s emo-pop, with a heady injection of 00s indie vibrance. Campfire Social create a sound that reverberates delight across audiences. Tapping into different moods and genres, each song on their brand-new EP showcases its own unique style.

Opening with EP-entitled track Everything Changed, we are catapulted into the melodic atmosphere that Campfire Social create so well. Dual vocal harmonies from lead Tom and co-vocalist Carrie pair gorgeously together, delivering blissful indie goodness to the core. 

Lacing guitar-laden melodies against thought-provoking lyrics. It’s Not Goodbye (To Those We Left Behind) has all the charm of indie-pop, with pockets of punk nostalgia. Musically breezy and upbeat, but lyrically emotive and stirring. These two elements curate together so pleasantly, you could be forgiven for dancing over the tracks tear-jerking, deeper meaning.  

Stand out favourite, Awake in the Wake of a Wave, builds beautifully. Truly reminiscent of a rolling oceans tide. Delicate and light at first, with minimal instruments and soft-toned vocals. Lyrics focus on the uncertainty and dread that can swallow us when we feel trapped in situations. As the tempo of the track picks up, and the lyrics switch to the hope of finding happiness in new circumstances. The mid-section bursts into life. Combining a variety of instruments, to erupt in euphoric music, that is such a joy to listen to.  

To cool the tempo down, Campfire Social proceed with the hazy, dreamlike Speak Louder. Washing over us with the softest, most comforting hints of acoustics. Although do not be fooled, this isn’t a track mistaken for being “entirely acoustic”. Giving us just a subtle taste of the bands ability to explore more ambient soundscapes. It does bring a smile to your face to discover that pop of ingenious flair Campfire Social possess, when you hear an instrument such as a banjo, join the mix.  

Although not to disappoint fans of those purely poignant, spine-tingling blues. On the Subject of Death is the EPs most heartbreaking listen. Providing a few minutes to pause and reflect, over what is otherwise a playful and experimental sound. Instruments are stripped-back, vocals soar at the forefront. The track provides clarity and calm, giving us just a moment to capture ourselves before Campfire Social close their EP. Final track Wherever Your Rest Your Head is an ode to American pop-punk, proving to be the perfect musical equivalent of a polaroid snapshot. Embodying jangled guitars and sharp defined vocals, the song sparks memories of first loves and the giddiness of youth.  

An emotional rollercoaster ride from start to finish. ‘Everything Changed’ really does shine, celebrating music and all it stands for. Brimming with nostalgic throwbacks, a vibrant medley of sound and inspiring lyrics. Campfire Social have captured our thoughts, feelings and emotions through the medium of song. Tuning into those momentous highs and crushing lows, with each jangled guitar strum or vocal note latching onto our inner-monologue in harmonious symmetry.  

Stream ‘Everything Changed’ on all platforms now via Mai 68 Records