I love these guys… I came across them a while ago now, and with each listen I enjoy them more and more. I’ve kept them to myself for too long now, and finally I’m writing to let the world know there is hope yet! [well, at least for new music!!]
Who are the bowerbirds?
Members: Phil Moore, Beth Tacular, and Mark Paulson.
Musically, they’re pretty much on their own – this is down to two things:
1. Their choice of instrumentation (a guitar, an accordion, and a drum).
2. Phil Moore’s voice, laced with intricate melodies, excellent lyrics, and really carrying each of the tracks from start to finish.
I’ve listened to their material too many times to remember, and also watched videos of the group, and I have to say they have “that something” about them. They really capture feeling and sounds as good live as they do recorded. Phil instantly becomes a likable character, very charismatic and very natural – infact, the whole group have a real sense of honesty about them, which is really refreshing [no jumped up lead singer wearing a predictable topman-esque tee, blazer & jeans combo :p ].
Musically, the music is quite sparse [there are only three members after all] but what the music lacks by way of instrumentation / additional mastering effects, it makes up for in emotion.. creating huge space and intimacy within each track. The arrangement of most tracks seem to have been written as if to score a film, or tell a story. Sometimes warming and close, other times distant and pastoral, but always keeping us [the listener] intrigued and wanting more.
Best of the Bowerbirds
Bowerbirds – In Our Talons
Audio clip: Adobe Flash Player (version 9 or above) is required to play this audio clip. Download the latest version here. You also need to have JavaScript enabled in your browser.
Bowerbirds – Bur Oak
Audio clip: Adobe Flash Player (version 9 or above) is required to play this audio clip. Download the latest version here. You also need to have JavaScript enabled in your browser.
Both of these tracks feature on their first ep released in 2006 “Danger At Sea“, and on their recently re-released album “Hymns For A Dark Horse” on US ‘Dead Oceans‘ Records.
Where Can I Buy Their Material?
You can, should and will buy their album right now [yes, that is a threat!], don’t even think about when your next payday is.. just click, buy, and come back and thank me later..
The Bowerbirds – Hymns For A Dark Horse
Other Links:
The Bowerbirds Official Website
