How to Swim

MP3: Embedded files

Flash is a great tool for websites, but sometimes it’s a real bugger. Either when a website is so big and stupid that it’s impossible to use or when audio is embedded so deeply you can’t hack it onto your hard disk. It’s only the latter that bugs me about the How to Swim website. Well, I shouldn’t be complaining because I actually have a copy of their new It Stings When I EP, so I can listen as much as I want. But as I’m so keen to direct readers to audio, I should warn you that it’s a little challenging to find it on their server. However, it’s well worth the effort, so please do try. It will make them happy, though not as happy as buying a CD. Anyway, you may need some words to entice you…

They’re actually a twisted bunch to try and describe, but what I really like about them is their willingness to attempt challenging ideas with diverse songwriting styles and instrumentation. They pull it off too - all without turning into a one-trick-pony (feeling it not necessary to name a successful art-rock band from Glasgow here).

EP opener ‘Bones’ showcases their darker side. With pounding drums setting the mood, the lead vocals never veer close to covering typical lyrical territory. In fact, the vocal alone vaguely reminded me of the Sensational Alex Harvey Band, and I really don’t get to say that often. Throw in some background chants that are part slave song and part voodoo chanting, and you come off with a pretty unique sound ringing through your head.

Which is then followed by the cheery ‘(I Am A) Logical Man’, and I swear I never expected to write this ever, but it’s like David Byrne crossed with Paul Simon’s Graceland before wanting to be Pet Sounds. And I really, really like it.

If you don’t believe me, both tracks are available on the website.

The two remaining songs cover a further 12 minutes and keep up the overall standard. Having already gained a good Scottish reputation, I certainly wasn’t disappointed. I just wish I was around the scene in Glasgow to finally see how they handle themselves live.

Steven McCarron - 16-02-2005

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