Stage Buzz: The Twilight Sad
James Graham (vocals), Andy MacFarlane (guitar), and Mark Devine (drums) comprise Scottish trio The Twilight Sad, and that emotion runs deep throughout the band’s third full-length No One Can Ever Know (Fat Cat). Stylistically different than previous releases, the fellas take a much darker turn on this one.
A synthesizer and the right guitar chords gives No One Can Ever Know an overall industrial, even militant, sound that contributes to the album’s dark-wave vibe. Certain tracks like “Dead City” and “Nil” hit that tipping point where the songs start sounding scary. Spooky, robotic synths take the listener to a dreary place. And while faster songs, like “Don’t Look At Me” and “Another Bed,” appear to be more upbeat, it’s really Twilight Sad’s creative use of synths that add the extra oomph.
Graham lets his Scottish accent carry though on every song, remaining strong and distinct to the end. The last few words of the final track, “Kill It In The Morning,” are void of instrumental accompaniment, letting Graham’s vocals and range resonate with you. (Friday@Empty Bottle.)
— Mary Scannell
Category: Featured, Stage Buzz, Weekly
