Words by Ben Blackburn
“Neon” is not a word that brings back too many fond memories for myself; instead it conjures up long forgotten memories of UV face paint and inexplicably convincing myself I was enjoying the music of Hadouken. However it only takes a split second of repression and the first few moments of The Neon Lights’ track ‘Forests’ to completely whitewash my mind, and enjoy the chillwave inspired sonic experience. Having began life as a production duo; The Neon Lights are now a fully fledged band after the self release of their debut EP, simply entitled ‘E.P. One’.
Prior to this debut release, The Neon Lights could already count the likes of premier musical tastemaker ‘Abeano’ as an avid fan, while Radio 1’s own Zane Lowe played a fantastic remix of The XX’s ‘Crystalised’ produced by the band. These two particularly gleaming highlights can be found embedded within a foundation of strong support and widespread listenership, and our specific focus on ‘Forests’ demonstrates just why this is the case. Positioned as the final track of the EP, ‘Forests’ begins unassumingly before then springing into life with beautifully textured electronics and echoing vocals. In addition to this electronic base, the band carefully orchestrates a fuller instrumentation of guitars and drums, which reflects the evolution of The Neon Lights into a band. In this vein, the track has suggestions of Friendly Fires, admittedly at half speed, with off beat percussion and loose guitar hooks. ‘Forests’ is a fair reflection of the fantastically composed and hugely promising debut EP, and it can only make one more excited to hear more releases by this band to watch in 2012.
Today's tip comes courtesy of Linn Branson
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