The Idle Silence – Dark Matter (2023)
Serendipity – it’s one of my favourite words. Not only is it fun to say but the definition is charming: a fortunate series of unplanned or unintended events. The Idle Silence is serendipitous, well kind of. A UK-based band, The Idle Silence came together after meeting via the internet in 2018 when all four members (who happen to live within a 20-mile radius) wanted to join a band at the exact same time. Was it meant to be? Well, yes.
Combining their musical talent and experiences, James Haldane (vocals and guitar), Phil Russell (vocals and guitar), Jay Parr (bass) and Martyn Edwards (drums) began creating music for the masses. This is my introduction to The Idle Silence, but they are already receiving coverage across the globe from notable publications, various playlists and radio stations. Featured on Antix Music Network, On The House, Amazing Radio, RGM, Northern Quarter Radio, and many more, The Idle Silence is growing a loyal fanbase beyond their UK borders.
Following their well-received EP, Frown, ‘Dark Matter’ is the band’s first single release in 2023. Leaning toward the iconic sounds of Radiohead and Nirvana, The Idle Silence capture the essence of old-school grunge. Dynamic guitars meet pounding drums within a distorted soundscape brimming with passionate grittiness. Interestingly enough, while the melody has a harmonic unity, each instrument holds prominence throughout the tune. What I mean is, each instrument has its time in the sun forcing you to pay attention to the band member’s natural talent before coming together as a flowing whole.
As with old-school grunge, there is a sense of discomfort and disconcerted griminess in the song; however, despite the off-kilter arrangement it appears to be mellifluous in a hard-hitting way. The catchy choruses are connected to verses with powerful guitars swelling into a bold guitar ending leaving you wanting more.
Just as the melody itself holds powerful sway over the audience, the rich vocals execute poetic and poignant lyricism. Penned by Haldane, ‘Dark Matter’ “describes a battle with depression, the dark thoughts that can run amok and the struggle to fill the empty space depression creates.” Elegantly encapsulating the painfulness and conflict of depression, Haldane’s vocals tear through your soul with a desperate vulnerability.
For more from The Idle Silence, check out their Facebook, Instagram and Spotify.
This artist was discovered via Musosoup #sustainablecurator
