Bird Machine – Bird Machine (2022)
Described by various blogs as “…a passionate display of musicianship” (Indie Buddie), “…wholesome yet poignant…” (Forte Magazine), and having “…exquisite work of diverse contents” (Music For All), New Zealand-based duo Bird Machine is impressing critics far beyond their national borders. Drawing together their musical talents and diverse backgrounds, husband-wife pair Luke and Jenna Grbin wrap listeners in a sonic tapestry shining brightly with silver musical threads. The bold guitars, keys and charming vocal executions show a blending of alternative rock, indie-pop and tinges of folk-rock tossed into the mix. The latest addition to their discography is their self-titled debut EP; come with us and jump into the music.
Following their well-received singles ‘I’m Right Here’, ‘Moneyache’ and ‘Our Kind’, Bird Machine is a melting pot of sounds nodding to vintage tones within an edgy contemporary soundscape. A self-proclaimed “collection of good and bad dreams”, the debut EP has a hazy, wistful and sometimes haunting feel throughout the five tracks. Yet, while a soothing, soft sensation exists in the arrangement, a profoundness is also heard marking innocence within sophisticated introspection – complex but simultaneously beautifully simplistic.
It is difficult to compare artists to others, particularly when their style is so unique; however, I can hear a distinct nod to the 80s and 90s pop and rock sounds. In ‘Twice In The Heart’, Bird Machine brings in a soothing arrangement, but there is an obscurity in the vocals that reminds me of Kate Bush in places. I know that seems odd, but Jenna has that whimsical and inimitable air about her vocals.
Along with the dreamy pop songs, the duo brings a blast of hard-hitting rock into the mixture. Gruff, rough and grungy, Luke’s guitar and bold vocals meld easily with the wistfulness of Jenna creating an overwhelming, almost gritty sound in ‘Moneyache’. If this EP is a “collection of good and bad dreams”, ‘Moneyache’ is a powerful bad dream that would have you thrashing about. Interestingly enough, while the harsh single has a full-bodied alternative rock thrust, there is a soothing flow hidden in the intriguing instrumentation.
While I love all of the tracks, my favourite is potentially ‘I’m Right Here’. A combination of flowing pop and folk with indie-rock sentiments, ‘I’m Right Here’ has a complex elegance highlighting the pair’s innovative nature.
For more from Bird Machine check out their official website, Facebook, Instagram and Spotify.
This artist was discovered via Musosoup #sustainablecurator
