Too Much Talent For One Band
Not content to churn out the usual run of the mill EP, North Carolina natives Annuals have decided to mix things up with an EP spilt. To start with there are three tantalising tasters of what’s to come from their first major label offering that’s due out later this year before cheekily sneaking in a couple of tracks by Sunfold who just so happen to be the band’s side project. Well when you have this much talent it’s only fair that you share it as much as possible.
Proving that signing to a major label does not slam a death sentence on your integrity, ‘Wet Zoo’ radiates with the rural-rock come indie-brilliance that has come to be a staple of Annuals as atmospheric driven tracks sweep, soar and gracefully whisk you away to a world that is dreamily fun packed and oozing with sublime goodness. ‘Sore’ gently winds its way into your heart as Annuals front man Adam Baker’s subdued and soothing vocals skim the surface of pure tranquillity, bursting with optimism before a southern hoe down shimmies its way in Annuals style with ‘Around Your Neck’, jangling with toe tapping goodness as it oozes sheer pop pummelling perfection. With so much fun its left to ‘Just Stay In’ to bring us back down to earth with a Damien Rice-esque track that swirls with a touch of Arcade Fire to create a spine tingling anthem that nuzzles snugly into your heart.
Having taken care of the usual business Annuals then turn to the side project of Sunfold as the rock ante is upped and the indie stakes are raised. ‘Between The Worlds’ is an indie anthem in search of a festival field to conquer as a sing out loud choruses mingle with a dance inducing riff that suggests that Sunfold are perhaps the urban brethren of Annuals • lacking that rustic charm but making up for it with sheer feel good infectiousness. As if to prove their point, Sunfold’s ‘Watering Pail’ taps along at break neck speed with sun drenched vocals to completely slay and a grunge edged guitar riff to really show that as Sunfold, the Annual set up just ooze that little bit more rock credibility.
Whether weaving their rustic rock charm and atmospheric indie wonder in their usual guise as Annuals or striving for the indie rock stage with Sunfold, this is one North Carolina band that will melt your heart before laying assault on your feet. Talent by the bucket load.