Castlecombe Drive – Blue Skies (2023)
Building a reputation for energetic performances, honest lyrics and infectious melodies, Castlecombe Drive is an indie-rock threesome based in London. Confident stage presence has seen the trio win hearts with their notable gigs at Shepherd’s Bush Empire and BST Hyde Park festival (to name but a few venues). While their insatiable tunes are garnering a loyal following from live shows, Castlecombe Drive is stirring the souls of audiences far beyond their UK borders. The latest addition to their discography is the single ‘Blue Skies’.
Following their self-titled album released earlier this year, ‘Blue Skies’ brings an evolution in the Castlecombe Drive sound. Smoother than 2022’s ‘Wish I Knew’ and ‘Away’, ‘Blue Skies’ has a sophisticated elegance in its mellifluous melody. Retaining an indie-rock meets Britpop tone, the threesome has found a niche in indie-rock; however, the new single colours outside of the lines slightly with fluttering folk undertones enhance the intimacy of the track.
Taken off their upcoming album For Better Days, Castlecombe Drive blends crashing drums with scorching guitars in a whirlpool of kaleidoscopic sound. Yet, while the rock band vibe lingers in ‘Blue Skies’, a moment of folksy charm peeks out near the end. Incorporating an acoustic guitar, ‘Blue Skies’ peters out with a folk-pop vulnerability and intimacy clasping listeners to their bosom. Or if you aren’t into the clasping to your bosom scenario, it’s a warm hand slipped into yours with an encouraging smile flitting across your lips.
This is my introduction to Castlecombe Drive, and I must admit it is a memorable one. Not a full-force slap to the face but not a “let’s fade into the background” subdued demeanour. Between sentimental sincerity in an insatiable swoop of tender music and crashing indie-rock energy, Castlecombe Drive is not to be ignored. I cannot wait for their upcoming album.
In addition to the single, Castlecombe Drive released an official music video for ‘Blue Skies’. You can view the video below or via their YouTube channel.
Find out more about Castlecombe Drive on their Facebook, Instagram and Spotify.
