The Joy Formidable – Whirring
The Joy Formidable’s next single, Whirring, to be released on May 25th
The Joy Formidable – A Balloon Called Moaning
The Joy Formidable have finally released their debut mini album and we can all finally stop listening to “Cradle” on on-repeat as we now have 7 more tracks to obsess over. The releases were limited to 500 copies which, is a same as this going to sell out fast as this is a special record. The band manages to show a lot of their range in just the first three songs. “The Greatest Light Is The Greatest Shade” flexes their epic muscles. The track is a big, noisy and dense and it is what post-rock would sound like if they ever went pop. The perfect marriage of beautiful noises and vocals. Then you are treated to the delightful pop musings of “Cradle.” There is something about this track that no matter how many times you listen it still resonates with you. I must have listened to this track every day for the last month and half and I still adore it. Just a word of warning it is that catchy. “Austere” starts off with that sultry bass and that background howling that just lures you in for the adventure. “9669” is the standard acoustic track but it elevates it to another level. The tension between Ritzy and Rhydian’s vocals are worth the price of admission alone but the song comes out very moody and moving. For a young band these tracks have a nice touch of polish to them. They are wise beyond their years and this record will make The Joy Formidable open up a lot of noises this year.
The Joy Formidable
Tell us a bit about your upcoming release “A Balloon Called Moaning” ?
It’s the largest body of work we’ve put out to date, but not our debut album. It’s a sister release to our Japanese A Balloon called Moaning (Rallye label Dec 2007), only 8 tracks this time. We’re doing a beautiful physical format via Pure Groove, who are an incredibly innovative label. We’re making 500 copies, quite literally- they’ll be handmade, and each one individual. It’s a great feeling to be putting out a record that has such a personal touch. We’re also releasing a digital version for free from our myspace.
I noticed that the band have a myspace, facebook, and twitter. Do you feel that these tools have become necessary now?
They certainly help our hands on approach. myspace and the internet in general, has totally changed access to new music. It’s allowed bands to do things themselves, release their own records, build their own fanbases.
“Cradle” has received a lot of attention. Do you pay attention to a lot of the press that your music has been getting?
We’re delighted when it comes but we don’t revolve around it.
Are you excited about the upcoming session with Steve Lamacq?
Very much so. It’s our first live appearance with our new drummer and I think we’ve all had a little secret desire to play at Maida Vale, plus Steve Lamacq is a legend.
How did “Club Joie De Vivre” get started?
We were seduced by the idea of running our own clubnight and choosing some great acts to play and DJ. They’ve been a huge success.
How has the current tour being go so far?
We head out at the end of January, touring is without a doubt my favourite thing about being in a band. I think we’re venturing as far north as Inverness this time, so it looks to be quite an extensive tour. I can live out of a case quite easily and I’m fortunate in my ability to sleep anywhere, with any amount of noise.
How do you expect 2009 to play out for the band?
I hate speculation. What I know, is that we’ll be playing a lot, recording a lot and releasing some more great records.
The Joy Formidable – Cradle
This is a time of year when you just get starved for new music. I came across this video on youtube and ever since the first listen I just can’t seem to get enough of this track. The band hail from Wales and are set to release their debut album next month. The thing that really strikes a chord with me is the lead vocals of Ritzy Bryan. Her voice really sticks out in this song as just a tone and delivery that sounds unlike anything out there. The track is a three minute moment of pure joy as it leaves you so satisfied. You get some woohoos to sing-a-long with some rather big sounding riffs to complement Ritzy’s vocal and a track that will become a regular play for most. The track is a perfect slice of indie pop that is excited and fresh.
By John Siwicki