brand new legs hit the ground running on debut EP ‘basement view’
The Manchester band continue to impress on their first EP.
Photo: Press
Thanks to the release of their first two singles last year, brand new legs have already shown they are ones to watch, with their playful energy and catchy lyrics commanding (and demanding) attention despite the band being fresh on the scene.
So, when the Manchester quartet announced the release of their debut EP, basement view, it was hard not to expect great music, and I’m glad to say they have not disappointed.
Beginning with no pills, a song that features a playful guitar riff and an energetic rhythm section, the EP gets off to a running start through this track that is a real treat for any indie rock fan.
Each song on the EP feels as though it ends in a place that is quite different to where it began, and so brand new legs consistently remind us that their music is not a sprint to the finish line, but a journey that should be embraced and enjoyed for all its ups and downs. Nowhere is this clearer than on bloom, where Jenny Perry’s contained vocals establish the track’s quiet opening before slowly building to its unexpected wild and riotous end.
Perry’s vocals often steal the show as they give it their all on just about every song. While dealing with themes of self-reflection and the struggles of not being able to understand yourself, porcelain highlights Perry’s vocal talents perfectly. In this song — which is almost a ballad — the band gives them the space to shine through a relaxed drumbeat and a set of rich guitar chords that are delicately strummed. And, just when you think it can’t get any better, we get a brain-scratching guitar solo that begs to be listened to on repeat.
The band then embrace a lighter sound towards the end of the EP, with bossa nova style rhythms and honey-like vocals in laurel and freckles. Perry’s delicious sax solo in laurel further elevates the song’s warm, jazzy feel, whilst freckles sultry instrumentation not only maintains the EP’s relaxing end but also helps continue the theme of self-reflection, which is often prominent in the band’s music.
It really feels as though brand new legs aren’t trying to be anything but themselves, and I’m glad that they aren’t because the Manchester quartet have successfully found their sound, and it’s a truly great one.