Conflict Choir – The Real Thing (2024)
With the look of fresh-faced youngsters with a bit of a rock music edge, the lads of Conflict Choir appear to be bright, new and eager to make a start… we suggest you don’t be fooled. While a raw innocence can be seen (somewhere behind the long hair and beards), Ali Clinton (vocals and guitar) and Jack Bowles (drums and percussion) have a breadth of experience beneath their belts. Both having worked as session musicians for mainstream artists, the duo draw together knowledge, influences, ideas and experiences to build a unique new sound as Conflict Choir.
As a phoenix rises from the ashes, Conflict Choir emerged during the UK lockdowns in 2020 with a live album in 2021 Versions (Live at Park Studios) followed by the studio single ‘What Are You Doing It For?’ in 2022. Skip ahead a couple of years, several releases and much critical acclaim from international publications and radio stations, Clinton and Bowles saunter into 2024 with their new single ‘The Real Thing’.
Following the well-received single ‘Algorithm’ in 2023, Conflict Choir shift to a harder, heavier, more pounding alternative rock tone in ‘The Real Thing’. Following a soothing post-punk-esque flavour of psychedelic mist in ‘Algorithm’, ‘The Real Thing’ is an explosive blast to the ears with its forceful shove. Crashing drums match scorching guitars in a gut-wrenching melody; however, just as the melody has a bite to its bold rock-filled brashness there is a soothing sensation fluttering beneath.
A push and pull of sound twirling you about with kaleidoscopic flair, the harmonic tones offer a soothing lull, but a rush of drums and crescendo to soul-stirring guitar whip you about in a ferocious rage. For me, Clinton’s vocals bind ‘The Real Thing’ with warmth and hopefulness; however, raw angst entwines with the gentle embrace.
Taken from their upcoming debut album Strange Games, ‘The Real Thing’ is part of a “social commentary about the state of the world”. Sincere and reflective but with confident ferocity, ‘The Real Thing’ is like tearing off the band-aid to reveal the tumultuous tension beneath.
Find out more about Conflict Choir on their Facebook, Instagram, and Spotify.
This artist was discovered via Musosoup #sustainablecurator
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