This one came practically out of nowhere when last year was closing. Actually, it originally came from Glasgow, passing through Yorkshire. Whatever, the musicality, the inventiveness, the whole concept of Modern Studies’ album “Swell to Great” is, well, great.
Not that the sounds the band come up with is something that is totally unfamiliar. On the contrary. But the way that they have been all pieced up together, the instrumentation that involves things like a harmonium, cello, and wine glasses, all fall together perfectly. Add to that the main vocals of the band’s songwriters Emily Scott and Rob St. John and whatever Pete Harvey, (played with King Creosote, and it shows), and Joe Smillie do, you get a perfect concoction of modern folk, sea shanties, and harmony. Something Sufjan Stevens can come up with when he’s not trying to stretch himself too far.St. John mainly handles the band’s lyrics and he has the right touch, dealing mainly with his natural surroundings. Most of the music was initially structured by Emily, who was also instrumental in bringing the band together.
The key thing with the album is that it has a natural flow, taking you from one musical image to another, without repeating itself at any point. The moment you enter its maze with “Supercool”, through the intricate harmonies of “Father is a Craftsman” to the closer “Swimming”, you have the sense that you are hearing the musical elements you are completely familiar with in a completely new light.
This is not just folk or chamber pop - if it is, that is exactly the way it should sound like - it is a harmonium-driven musical treasure. If this is the sign of what we are to expect, let us all get into Modern Studies. I’m sure Scottish school system would love it too. Will not forget this one when 2017 starts winding down.
