Boy Mandeville are the latest band to jump on the indie-pop bandwagon, made up of Jack Parris (Guitar/Vocals), Mike Coxhead (Guitar/Vocals), Brian Cantwell (Bass) and Jono Cary (Drums). The band released ‘Gorilla’ at the beginning of June via their own record label, Around The Dial Records. They came onto the scene last year, and have already played venues such as the legendary Koko, although only in a supporting role. After being previously released on East City Records (Chapel Club, Ten Bears, David’s Lyre) they’ve been played on XFM, BBC6 Music and the holy grail of BBC Radio 1.
The single itself is a blending between the traditional jangling guitars employed right back to the likes of The Smiths and the ever increasing influence from afar, best shown by Vampire Weekend. Radio 1 DJ Huw Stephens sums it up perfectly when he commented on the song’s “African guitar rhythm.” There’s a fairly minimalist theme through the track, so if you’re a fan of huge lead guitar parts and slightly more complex drum beats you’re not going to find what you’re looking for.
However, if you are a fan of the aforementioned Vampire Weekend or, indeed, anything vaguely similar then there’ll be something to keep you, at the very least, interested. The harmonies soar high above the rest of the track and the bass keeps your foot tapping. It’s not a far stretch to imagine hearing the song being played on radio stations up and down the country.
The question is if they can make themselves stand out from the throng of bands championing the indie-pop flag. On the basis of 'Gorilla' they seem to have the talent, what they need now is the determination and perseverance to break through.
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