VANITY PROJECT

This is another issue of delay, being on my review list for some months. But now I took the time once again. Yeah, it's definitely worth it, still. Not knowing them hailing from the UK, I most probably would swear that INFICTIONS will be a scandinavian outfit. Headed by Ed Cartledge, also noted as the key figure of the band Early Cartographers, this Vanity Project delivers heartfelt compositions all the way through. What means a somewhat nordic melancholic, empathic sound, more in the vein of Gazpacho, Oak, skillfully combined with some post rocking outbursts. The band's core is also consisting of bass player Gareth Hughes, Tom Chaffer on the second guitar and drummer James Fosberry, all not related with his other aforementioned band, for what I know. But some guest musicians are at least, on the other hand.

Except some piano input the keyboards are having a minor role, the focus is on the guitars and vocals moreover. The album's song collection, consisting of 10 tracks, comes as a magnificent string of pearls, provided with heart and mind. Charming art rock singer/songwriter moments are alternating with heavier moments, while Cartledge is equipped with a fantastic singing voice. There is a lot going on in these meadows in general. This album is exceptional, ranks high, no question. Thematically related to environmental issues, quite obvious just when considering the song titles. When thinking of other stylistically related bands Pineapple Thief, Radiohead, Crippled Black Phoenix are coming into my mind too.