Pattern Pusher – Happy Place (2021)
From their debut single ‘Lose Myself’ in 2018 to the latest track ‘Happy Place’, UK-based trio Pattern Pusher show innovativeness and versatility in their sound. Described as one of NME’s “Hidden Gems”, the group are definitely worth at least one listen – and I bet you you’ll have them on repeat. Combining the talents of Alex Johnstone (vocals and keys), Benny G (bass) and Benny C (drums), Pattern Pusher have reached the ears of audiences performing at festivals, touring the UK and gaining coverage from notable critics. The latest addition to the lads well-received repertoire is ‘Happy Place’.
Following their previous single ‘Find The Light’, ‘Happy Place’ is Pattern Pusher’s nod to old school funk-pop meets jazz – think Simply Red with twinges of upbeat George Michael. Growing up with these artists constantly blasting through my hi-fi speakers, I became a fan of the more obscure sounds in the 80s/90s and have not found a similar sound since…until now. Reminiscent of Mick Hucknell, Alex Johnstone’s vocals are warm, bold and unique in a great way. Bring along Benny C’s drums and Benny G’s dynamic bass and you have a melodic mixture that will get your toes tapping.
Recorded with the renowned producers Luke Simpkins (The Vamps, One Direction) and Chris Sheldon (Biffy Clyro and Foo Fighters), the musical arrangement is sophisticated but with an innocent whimsy enhancing the “funky get up and dance” ambience. Yet, it is not this outstanding melody exclusively that enchants listeners but the intimate connection between them and us. Touching on elements of mental health, isolation, anxiety and empowerment, Pattern Pusher has created sonic representations of the feelings felt during Covid-19 lockdowns.
The sound of ‘Happy Place’ and ‘Find The Light’ may be powerful but the personal narrative adds intensity. Johnston shares that ‘Happy Place’ is “…a story of getting lost in your favourite place, even if only in your head. It was written on a morning when I was beating myself up for not having my life sorted. I was feeling down but then I remembered the good times, took myself to my happy places, good memories. There are always things I love where I can escape and I hope it will encourage others to do the same and no matter how dark things seem, try to focus on the positive things in life.”
Bringing the funky vibes of the 90s to the 21st Century, Pattern Pusher urges us to all find our happy places to overcome difficult times in our lives. After listening to ‘Happy Place’, I think I discovered Pattern Pusher’s discography is my happy place. What’s yours?
In addition to the single, Pattern Pusher released an official music video for ‘Happy Place’.
For more from Pattern Pusher check out their official website, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Spotify.
