New Times,
New Thinking.

  1. Culture
  2. Music
20 July 2011

Music to bathe in

Tom Ravenscroft opts for comfort over clever where indie's concerned and discovers he's an underwate

By Tom Ravenscroft

I like Swiftumz — not just because they sound like they might be one of those tasty children’s cold remedies that used to make you pine for sickness when you were little but because they are a slightly rubbish indie rock band that I derive a strange comfort from. I like it when bands sound like they haven’t been playing together for very long and don’t necessarily retain any musical talent but manage to slog out a few good tunes through sheer desire. Swiftumz give off that impression; everything slightly out of tune, time and practice. I suspect this may be a well-organised and intentional sound but I’m happy to believe it is not: I’m getting a bit bored of listening to clever and hope this isn’t. Their album is called Don’t Trip and is out in August.

I was told this week that I was a fan of underwater sounds. I wasn’t aware if this and I’m not sure if it’s something I need worry about. Then, right on cue, Dam Mantle’s new EP We arrives in my life and perfectly fits this accusation; it is music that sounds like it’s been put through a tap. It is warm, pretty and sleepy sounding. You should take a bath in it.

Select and enter your email address Your weekly guide to the best writing on ideas, politics, books and culture every Saturday. The best way to sign up for The Saturday Read is via saturdayread.substack.com The New Statesman's quick and essential guide to the news and politics of the day. The best way to sign up for Morning Call is via morningcall.substack.com
Visit our privacy Policy for more information about our services, how Progressive Media Investments may use, process and share your personal data, including information on your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications.
THANK YOU

Content from our partners
Homes for all: how can Labour shape the future of UK housing?
The UK’s skills shortfall is undermining growth
<strong>What kind of tax reforms would stimulate growth?</strong>