Out on 2nd June 2017, ‘Blood Orange’ is the second single from Low Chimes‘ debut album ‘Illumine‘ set for release in Autumn 2017. Their debut single, ‘Sleepwalking’ saw the band invited for a session with Marc Riley on BBC 6Music.
‘Blood Orange’ revels euphorically in an unexpectedly great situation, but there is also an underlying sense of reality dawning. “For the first time in a while I was in a settled and happy place” says Marianne, “I had a feeling of visceral joy that I wanted to hang onto, but also a sense of it being transient; ‘Blood Orange’ represents my refusal to let this sense overshadow the moment.”
The excitement of the time is reflected in the song’s luminous imagery, inspired by Marianne’s childhood trips to Sweden, and in its slow build to a crescendo of undulating vocal harmonies and a chorus of desert blues guitar tones.
It was in 2010 that I first saw Low Chimes (who then sailed under the name of Hot Feet). They were performing at a Communion night in Bristol. A lot of thought and consideration has gone into their musical direction since then, and the name change came as no real surprise. They always seemed to be on the brink of something bigger, and it felt like they were sometimes holding back until now, that is.
They have a fresh new sound that is both fuller and more dynamic. Psychedelic textures that were once subtle have now come to the fore, helped by the addition of former Laura Marling band member Pete Roe on keys and the inclusion of synths, samples and other electronics.
Layered too are Marianne’s lyrics which are often inspired by the outdoors. Natural images are woven into narratives of new beginnings and letting go of the past but often serve as metaphors for darker themes. Solitude, anxiety and escapism provide an uneasy backdrop to otherwise hopeful messages.
Those that champion tomorrow’s new sounds in the form of Elbow’s Guy Garvey, Lauren Laverne, Marc Riley and Vic Galloway took little persuading in getting behind them with their support; you should too, their future is incredibly promising, and they’re a joy to listen to.
Low Chimes are
Marianne Parrish – vocals, guitar
Jack Page – lead guitar
Lachlan McLellan – bass
Rob Pemberton – drums
Pete Roe – keys
Photo Credit: Rebecca Mills