(4-track EP)
A new and monumentally original alternative rock band with a singer/ guitarist called Thom Yorke is bound to attract attention innit? But no, Thom Yorke hasn't left Radiohead to pursue other projects. Tybalt's Thom is merely a namesake, although his and his band-mates' music sure is on a similarly far-reaching and all-emotion-encompassing par as the aforementioned cult British band.
In fact this 4-track demo is instant with its impact� at least it would be if track 3 - 'Maxalon City' - became track 1, as this is the song with the greatest vibes and a lush string arrangement hanging on the pert guitar melodies jugged out by Thom and Tybalt founder member Duncan Buchanan, who also shares vocals with Thom.
While the live version of 'Foundations' has no place on this otherwise near-perfect demo (the quality of the recording isn't that hot), their 'Lines' is an immediately upbeat song with talk of influential tranquilisers and a rollicking, careering indie-rock sound in the blazing vein of Idlewild. Incidentally, drummer Nick previously played in a band called San Lorenzo who actually toured with Idlewild in their Y2K early days�
Coincidentally, there are influential and inspired sounds attacking from all angles as this band subconsciously teach all those who are prepared to listen the virtue of musical prowess. Their sound is deep, meaningful and as complex as Spaghetti Junction on Mayday overdrive.
Their most ambitious song is actually the one that opens this class EP, 'Negative Vibes.' Starting out all downbeat and super subtle, its tender and melancholically buoyant melodies slowly but surely unfold into this gigantic, moving, epic, aero-dynamic, widescreen, Dolby-surrounded masterpiece that stretches on for over 10 minutes. A breath-accosting crescendo of magnificence, even instrumental-led bands like Mogwai would be taken aback by the scale of this beauty.
All in all, Tybalt (despite their bland name that could seriously do with a change) are the epitome of life, pouring their unbridled and charmed enthusiasm into some of the most searing of songs this side of genius.
I mean, Shakespeare was a great writer. And Tybalt are great songwriters in tribute.
(STEVE RUDD)
www.tybaltcentral.tk
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