Stornoway, hailing from Oxford, are the latest of a long line of indie-folk bands to be emerging from the UK in the past few years, and their debut album, Beachcomber’s Windowsill, could not be better timed for the approaching summer sun. Think along the lines of Local Natives, Fleet Foxes and a hint of Guillemots combined and it roughly describes the joyous melodic pop these boys are bringing to the rather crowded indie-folk table. However, don’t dispel them just yet. Even though there are many similarities to the latest wave of bands to hit the radio, that doesn’t mean that Stornoway can be written of quite so fast. Their first single to be taken from the album, ‘I Saw You Blink’, is full of optimistic romantic lyrics, “I caught the sun on my way home” a prize example and then mixed with bouncy joyful pop abandon. It is certainly enough to make anybody’s day that little bit brighter. Opening track, ‘Zorbing’, should also get a mention, a beautiful showcase for lead singer Brian Briggs vocal abilities and a delicious introduction to their sunshine filled melodies. I’d definitely say it is worth giving this band a shot, yes they are similar to other acts around, but with their genuine heart felt lyrics and superbly crafted indie pop you might find something a little more unique hidden amongst their carefully concocted sunshine melodies.
Beachcomber’s Windowsill is out now, with the band touring extensively over the summer. You can view the dizzying video for current single ‘Zorbing’ below.
