by Dan Goldin (@post_trash_)
For London’s Moreish Idols, music is in constant evolution, growing upon new ideas, pulling threads to watch their framework both tighten and unravel. Last year the band released Float, their Speedy Wunderground (Heartworms, Joyeria, The Lounge Society) debut, an intelligent and skronky post-punk blast. The record maneuvered between rapid art rock flair and abrasive twitches of motorik intensity, from the graceful shifts of “Speedboat” to the jangly pop essence and sax groove of “W.A.M.”. Last month the band returned with “Nocturnal Creatures,” a breezy but jagged song that proves the band are continuing to explore possibilities, opting for a gentle flourish that rounds the edges while remaining rhythmically advantageous. A month later and the band are offering “Between These Ears,” their latest single, and a stunning complement to pop core of “Nocturnal Creatures.”
“Between These Ears” continues to manifest itself without aggression, it’s tangled but calming, a piece of delicately jazzy art-rock that works atmosphere into post-punk density. With a swooning vocal melody (and a touch of Television affinity), the band jangle along over a sharp rhythmic shuffle and a whole lot of clarinet accompaniment. The beat twists with textures and fills, keeping a steady framework but reshaping itself in the process. Moreish Idols eventually take the opportunity to unwind, colliding headfirst as the layers thicken and the walls close in, upping the intensity but staying true to the song’s melodic themes.