Some people have superpowers, and some people have supergroups. I love me some supergroups. All of my music expectations have a form of a supergroup. I am not a cardio specialist, but I can see that supergroups create their projects from the heart. Now that I have put a pathetic side of myself out there, it is time to dive in into the review of one of the most vibrant new bands on the scene.
Behind the project BNQT (pronounced Banquet) stand Eric Pulido and his entourage from the band Midlake. They make the base of the sonic style of Volume 1, while the vocal duties are divided among authors from various indie bands which gained their recognition in the past two decades. The guests include: Alex Kapranos from Franz Ferdinand, Jason Lytle from Grandaddy, Ben Birdwell from Band of Horses, and Fran Healy from Travis.
In respect to the democratic rules, each one of the guests have equal number of songs (2) on this interesting music collection. Despite the fact that they all come from different bands which nurture a different music style, Volume 1 is surprisingly coherent and harmonious material. The main reason for it is that the musicians from Midlake play in every song, and Pulido and co. are having the main role when it comes to production.
The record is opened by Restart, a song embellished by a rich orchestration, infectious guitar riffs and peculiar bass line. Unlikely Force brings piano retro intro and warm vocal of Ben Birdwell. Piano also plays the main role in 100 Million Miles, while stronger sounds on Hey Banana is additionally decorated with string arrangements. Real Love is a reminder of the 60s and the era of The Beatles, and LA In My Mind and Tara are in accordance with the authors’ obsession with the rock music of the 70s.
The album is closed by Fighting The World, a beautiful pop ballade. After the song ends, you have no choice but to go back to the beginning of the record and listen to it until you know every song. I promise it’s that good. I hope this project will live on, and that we will have the chance to see Volume 2 in the near future.
