Mayhew - Tinderbox
In Edinburgh’s emerging ecosystem of musicians, the genre that seems to be predominant so far is the one of alternative folk. From Broken Records to Meursault, the local music scene has always been slightly different than the rest of cities, always adding that layer of originality that makes most bands only for music fans, leaving the occasional listener a bit confused at times trying to figure out what is it exactly that they are listening to.
However, to every rule comes an exception. Mayhew comprises musicians from Scotland to Australia and everywhere in-between, surprisingly managing a very effective balance. Their take on folk is much more traditional than the capital’s other bands, while still sounding genuinely unique, they just might be the one band who could easily reach mainstream success.
They recently released Tinderbox, their debut LP, and should be now resting after being the opening act for Glastonbury’s Acoustic Stage. If justice is served, they should slowly but surely start invading your music player of choice.
Leather, Norwegian wood, cigars, wallpapers… All things that come to mind while listening to the sounds they create. Edinburgh’s ensemble do a grand job at creating an extremely classy and lusty atmosphere with their debut. The wonderful use and blend of acoustic guitars, cellos and vocals make this something to be listened in art cafe, or at a museum; on the road in a Bentley, or even on the radio; at the pub and at home. It sounds modern but conservative - sophisticated but for everyone.
Track after track, whether it’s Sleeper or The Flood Or The Fire, you will again and again be surprised by the power of Cathy’s vocals. Smoky, warm, but with a tinge of mystery to it, you will need just one listen to recognise the quality of it all. With Foxglove, the tempo is slightly more cheery with some incredibly infectious melodies, it keeps showing how they can swiftly shift from more traditional folk to something more upbeat and pop-ish. It’s the perfect balance that I was talking about.
The slowest track though is the last one on the record, Massachusetts, tender and gentle, it strikes for its simple beauty. It’s very classy but also extremely easy-listening, I can definitely see (or hear) this playing on indie and pop radio stations alike.
With their debut album finally out and having without a doubt earned a few more fans while performing at Glastonbury, Mayhew remains an unknown act but hopefully not for much longer. Their fine sound could easily please fans of different genres, and so they will. Give them a listen now and purchase their debut LP, Tinderbox.
