Bromley based indie band; Van Susans, released debut EP ‘We Could Be Scenery’ on behalf of Beatnik Geek Records on May 21st 2011.
Being a hardly known British band, Van Susans have played shows in venues such as The Clapham Grand, London’s famous 100 Club and London’s O2 Academy either as support or for charity gigs. Recently, Van Susans have toured with The South (formally The Beautiful South) around Scotland and a one off show at Islington O2 in mid February-start of March.
Van Susans is a collection of young men who have a similar objective and came together to create music, which is understandably amazing and truthful. Each song in its own right has a purpose and is enhanced by the beautiful vocals and obvious London accent of Olly Andrews because his voice bonds completely well with the music and lyrics that’s written solely by the members of Van Susans themselves and is in fact remarkable lyrically, vocally and instrumentally, this is why they’ve obtained such a growing fan base, which by the looks of things won’t stop increasing.
‘We Could Be Scenery’ showcases 5 independently written songs, including a remixed version of previous song release “Bones”. They all have a connection with each other that’s demonstrated through the fluidity between song changes and every track by Van Susans is written to perfection.
Their debut EP begins with “Cha Cha Bang” where the link between acoustic and electric guitar is brilliant because it confirms that two different forms work well together because the chords used, sound simple yet produce great sounds, alongside with Rob Dullaway on percussion, it shows that this band means business as soon as you listen to them.
“Get Up, Get Out” is more acoustic based compared to the rest of the EP because the rest has some sort of addition musically to make it a whole. This track starts off in a quieter tone and builds up to a slightly louder one; a positive note for this is hearing the intricacy of an acoustic performance.
“Plans” is more up tempo and makes the listener tap their foot or even dance because it sort of has an Irish feel to it in a few sections of the song. The drums are used a lot more, therefore, Tim Dullaway has a bigger contribution in the song to use his bass. In future recordings, Van Susans should adapt on Tim’s ability and maybe give him a bass solo because from the modest hints that we hear, he deserves a chance to show us what he can do.
The most adorable and emotionally touching song on the EP, “Glow” starts with Olly Groome on piano, which changes tempo and tone throughout. He has a gift when using the piano and is applied fantastically to this song. The drumming is lighter throughout this track but still has enough power to bring the song further into perspective due to the straightforwardness performed. In the bridge, lead guitarist; Ed Dullaway, shows off his astounding talent, which when you see live looks absolutely effortless but in truth it’s not. This song can have a significant importance to anyone because the lyrics are written straight from the heart and are quite expressive to listen to when you’re going through a rough time.
On March 12th, Van Susans’ new single “Bricks Not Sticks Or Straw” will be released, which after listening to their EP constantly will be fantastic in every way possible, so I advise each and every one of you to listen to their music, watch their videos and when you get the chance see these lovely boys live because they’re heading to hit the big time soon.
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