Swansgate hit the sweet spot between psychedelia, prog, pop and jazz with their intriguing and endearing new single and video Embedded Rhythm — showcasing today on Tinnitist.
The latest preview of the Charlotte, N.C., quartet’s upcoming debut album Becoming Someone, Embedded Rhythm features the band’s unique sonic signature, stylishly and gracefully combining musical genres, approached and influences into a sound that is far more than the sum of its parts. Guitars, bass and piano tinged with psychedelic, jazz, and experimental influences are layered with rich synths, drum and MIDI programming to create their distinctively tropical sound. Although Embedded Rhythm, like the rest of Becoming Someone, is perfect listening for the beach, its deep lyrical themes and real-life inspiration also make it ideal for reflection and deep introspection.
“With this album, we really wanted to bottle up about 20-plus years worth of musical influence into a 45-minute piece of music,” explains singer and keyboardist Stu Draughn. “My dad died a year before starting the project, and that thrust me into a transformation of sorts. I went through a long process of reflection, which led to a better understanding of who I am. Just as we are all children of our ancestors, this album is a child of all of the musical ideas that inspired it. I really tried hard to capture the essence of every artist I’ve ever loved, while arranging things in a way that is new and fun to listen to.”
Alongside Draughn, Swansgate features Michael McKinney (guitar, keyboards), Gabe McKinney (bass) and Mike Kaloudis (drums). Formed in small-town North Carolina, Swansgate have slowly evolved their sound into a modern, synthesizer-driven hybrid that invites comparison with Tame Impala, Flaming Lips, Radiohead, Of Montreal and more. Their live set includes precisely composed songs that experiment with genre-fusing and avant-garde sounds; while also keeping in mind accessibility and spontaneity so that each show is a unique, fun, and memorable experience. Becoming Someone is set for independent release on April 29.
Watch the video for Embedded Rhythm above, check out more from Swansgate below, and follow them on Facebook and Instagram.
