Words by Evan Crandell @ec_onthe1
When we listen to new music, our brains usually compare what we’re hearing to something familiar. These connections inform how we perceive and discuss music as well as driving a global industry. On the rare occasion that we hear something truly original, it can feel like a wrench has been thrown in the works. This experience, however, can also be extremely rewarding. Anyone who has heard Febueder’s music may have experienced this phenomenon. The Ascot-based trio has an unapologetically unique sound and their new EP From an Album cements their place in a lane of the music landscape that is wholly their own.
After a recent tease in the form of the single 'Shapeshifter', the remainder of the EP completes a sophisticated sonic palette, with each song presenting something new and enticing. There is the open, sporadic introduction on 'Humming For You' that eventually settles into a driving, bass-heavy groove with ethereal vocalizations. Things then coalesce on “Stilts” into a straight up dance feel, which seems unusual for Febueder but is entirely welcome. The band shows off their unique approach to groove with heavy syncopation on 'Morning Yawn'. The final track 'Hence Worth' encapsulates the EP with its reverbed production, open spaces in the mix, and choice moments of unadulterated groove.
Febueder might as well be speaking to the audience when lead vocalist Kieran Godfrey sings, “You’ll always need me when I’m gone” on 'Hence Worth'. They are the kind of group where each release feels like a cultural event, and each song like a movement of a larger work. While their music may not be for the masses, it is enormously fulfilling to audiences seeking something fresh. For now we’ll need to be sustained by the five tracks on From an Album, but here’s hoping we can expect more music from Febueder in the near future.