There is an underlying and growing scene developing in the Midlands, especially in the direction of Hereford and Worcester. One of the reasons for this is Joe at Idle Hands Promotions, who not only puts on touring bands, but also gives locals bands a chance to play. As well as being a promotion company, he also manages some of the area’s emerging talent. One of the bands he has taken under his wing are Hereford’s ‘Talons’.
I first heard Talons supporting at my local venue. With a line up consisting of two violins and no vocals, it was hard to know what to expect. But what happened was nothing short of exceptional.
Their two track demo is uplifting yet dark at the same time. Think ‘Explosions in the sky’ with the ferocity and deliverance of ‘Forward Russia’ with added moments of pure ambience. Or as they say: “Talons possess a fascinating sense of urgency and drive, with a sound that both soothes and savages in equal measure”
The first track ‘Commiserations Buff Orpington’ combines the energy of hardcore with the complexity of Math Rock. The violins create an uplifting overlay that captivates and provides a subtle contrast to intensity of the guitars below.
This leads into the second track, ‘The Tragic Decline of Buff Orpington’ which is a sheer showing of the musical prowess that this band possess, with thundering drums and captivating guitar lines enclosed in a sonic mass of swirling energy.
Be sure to keep an eye out for this band. Talons deserve to soar to great heights, let alone the cult status they are clearly of capable of gaining.
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