Bandolier – Steady Love EP
(self-released, 2014)
Seattle’s Bandolier contributed the title track from their Steady Love EP to Ball of Wax 35, tipping me off to their particular brand of melodic goodness. The other four songs that round out the EP fit nicely in the realm of ’60s-inspired baroque pop, not far off from the stuff you might find on Slumberland (Aisler Set reunion, peoples!) or Happy Happy Birthday to Me (which put out a 7″ from another Seattle pop band, Week of Wonders).
Opener “Army Infantry” is a cheery, sun-drenched workout, threaded through with perfectly executed “woo-ah-ooo”s. The bassline and fuzzy organ that open “Diamond Ring” recall early Attractions, while Sadie Adams’s co-lead vocals introduce a jarring, and effective, change to the song. Compared to main vocalist Lino T. Fernandez’s breathy, wavering vocals, Adams’ voice is much more powerful and classically soulful (if that makes any sense). The mix of their two voices works well trading lines on “Kissing Cousins” and closer “Sit-com Song,” which round out the breezy, upbeat vibe of the EP.
It’s a really fun, promising release from one of my favorite new local finds. Grab the Steady Love EP and head over to Barboza to check out the band live this Saturday night.