Tyler Elden and The Night Figures – Bruised Love (2023)
Already a regular on our virtual pages, singer-songwriter Tyler Elden has a unique sound that keeps us bopping our heads and hitting the repeat button; but this time we’re looking at his new project. A musical collective led by Elden, The Night Figures combines elements of indie-rock, prog-rock, grunge and pop-punk with a nostalgic 90s rock flair. Described by notable publications as a band that “showcases the ability…to create powerful music that resonates” (Sinusoidal Music), brings “a heightened sense of emotion…” (York Calling), and “…an outstanding delivery and masterful craft…” (Less Than 1000 Followers), Tyler Elden and The Night Figures are certainly turning heads. Come with us as we take a listen to their debut single ‘Bruised Love’.
In previous reviews, I compared Tyler Elden to Death Cab For Cutie and Biffy Clyro, but he takes a darker, gruffer and more hard-hitting tone with The Night Figures. Combining his poetic lyricism with the instrumental skills of members of In The Presence of Wolves, The Night Figures retain a dash of Death Cab For Cutie but bring a heavier tone to ‘Bruised Loves’. Described in Rock Hard as being reminiscent of Coheed and Cambria, the prog-rock trio merge their aggression with Elden’s signature indie-rock sound. Elden explains that “…it’s a good introduction to what the group as a unit bring to the table. Vini, Ty and Jim are seasoned musicians coming from a plethora of backgrounds…I’ve been in their musical circles for years, so it’s fascinating to see them work on the songs I present them.”
Bold, dynamic and powerful from the first chord, ‘Bruised Love’ is a throwback to old-school alternative and indie-rock. Yet, while a nostalgic whimsy is woven into the sonic tapestry, The Night Figures add a contemporary edginess to ‘Bruised Love’ interpreting rock sounds of the 90s for modern-day audiences. What I love is how the song has an ambient wistfulness, but it simultaneously brings a vivid desperation to the hard rock melody. Melancholic but in a forceful, angsty way, Elden shares that ‘Bruised Love’ “…displays the more aggressive side of my songwriting…it explores chasing comfort and relief through any means necessary.”
For more from Tyler Elden and The Night Figures, check out their Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Spotify.
This artist was discovered via Musosoup #sustainablecurator
