Modern Sky – Album Sampler
With the launch of Modern Sky UK, sister company to Modern Sky Beijing, comes a 4-track label sampler – celebrating some of the labels newly acquired artists.
To give its full title “The Future Influences the Present Just as Much as the Past”, in itself sounds like that of an ancient Chinese proverb. The 4 artists featured however are very relevant alongside today’s indie music scene.
Regardless of influences, the tracks on offer sound particularly here and now. From a business perspective, this indicates how Modern Sky have their finger on the pulse with regards to modern trends.
The EP is being released on heavyweight 10” vinyl, all with their own limited edition coloured sleeves. In what presumably kicks off the A-Side, “Doing Well” by Catholic Action gives an indication of what’s to come. The band have only been in existence a couple of years and already have a full-length album due out in the Autumn of this year.
Catholic Action
Catholic Action immediately showcases what I mean by sounding in keeping with modern times. “Doing Well” is indie and it’s trendy, but there’s something rather appealing about it too.
The 2nd track of side A, “Lucid Dreams” by Violet Youth is a song title that already conjures up images in keeping with how it sounds. They’ve already released a video to another track “Reliable Sources” having worked with videographer Niall Lea (who’s work includes Johnny Marr, Stone Roses and the Courteeners). Although I better pre-warn you, the new song is much more exciting than this one.
Flip the record over, or in my case press play on track 3 and you will hear the innocent vocals from Liverpool’s FUSS. They’re another band strongly influenced by indie-bands of the 80’s/90’s, along with the more psychedelic garage rock from the 60’s. Their track “Fluff” on this EP, along with Catholic Action are easily my favourites.
Lastly the Modern Sky UK Label Sampler takes a slightly more pop orientated turn. While the indie-shoegaze that’s come before her may be a little moody, “Hometown” by Pixie is upbeat. There’s something more mainstream about the 21 year old, but the home-made approach still keeps it honest and acceptable. After all, the likes of FKA Twigs and Lorde all started somewhere.
Pixey
