Images: Tim Shearwood , EP graphic design : Andrew Browne [Used with permission]
EP Review
Orwells ’84 – Truth Is The First Victim
Orwells ’84 have delivered a stunning debut with their EP “Truth Is The First Victim”. The Dundalk-based seven-piece band received rave reviews for their single Cailín which was released last year. Arctic Monkeys, Nick Cave and David Bowie are just some of the bands influences and they are usually described as indie-folk but upon listening, many other genres and influences spring to mind.
The early 90’s irish band vibe of “You Took The Night” encompasses foot-stomping cello, violin and great guitar solos and is also suggestive of The Stone Roses and The Cranberries while “On The Road” is almost Pogues-esque with echoes of R.E.M. at times, the quick-tempo manages to be uplifting in its nature despite the narrative in its lyrics and it works so well.
The sound of Cailín shows their inimitable talent as multi-instrumentalists and there are some wonderfully graceful harmonies on “She Is So Sweet” while the haunting “The Ballad Of Frank Owens” is beautifully reminiscent of The Cure and Echo And The Bunnymen.
The songs work brilliantly together as an EP and a couple also wouldn’t seem out of place on a film soundtrack, namely, “You Took The Night” and “The Ballad Of Frank Owens” which for me are the standout tracks. Big things are sure to happen for this talented group of musicians.
“Truth Is The First Victim” is out now
Check out the video for “Cailín” below;
