West Wickhams – Where The Creatures Rule (2020)
They say you learn something new every day. I’m not certain who ‘they’ are, but bear with me for a moment. Anyway, they say you learn something new each day and this is totally true for me. Today I learned that not only are the Isles of Scilly in Cornwall but also that Tresco, one of the islands on the Isles, is the home of post-punk duo West Wickhams (but they currently reside in Surrey). Now that’s a lot of education for a person who left school over 20 years ago.
So, we have their location and we have the name of the group…good introduction. Where do we go from here? Tresco is famously known as the island of lost souls, however, I’m not too sure if the cultural beliefs have sway over West Wickhams avant-garde music. Delve into ‘Where The Creatures Rule’ with us and make up your mind.
Reminiscent of The Psychedelic Furs and The Cure, but with the punk-rock essence of Joy Division, ‘Where The Creatures Rule’ is a hazy, synth-laden noir soundscape. Expertly layered, Elle Flores and Jon Othello create a swirl of sound finding its way into every inch of your brain. Placing brusque lyricism atop a consistent flood of turbulent water shows an intriguing juxtaposition between languid and abrasive.
One feature which illustrates West Wickhams versatility is the movement from an intense psychedelic melody to a simplistic combination of guitar, keys and somewhat spoken word. It is this simplicity that enhances the intimacy of ‘Where The Creatures Rule’. Not only that, but Othello’s vocals add a haunting quality sending chills down your spine.
For more from West Wickhams check out their Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and Spotify.
