With a balance of 75% Swede and 25% Scot (or Dan as he’s known), Glasgow-based foursome The Circus Ship describe themselves as “Glasgow pop with some Swedish chords”, and the band’s new EP Barney seems like a perfect place to experience first-hand exactly what that sounds like.
‘In My Mind’ provides the opening track with its combination of upbeat riffs and irresistibly toe-tapping beats providing an intro, which paves the way, into an impressive indie rock tune with vocals boasting more than a hint of punk; time is even set aside for a punchy bass solo, essentially turning the song into a platform for formally introducing the band’s four members to the listener.
The more downbeat ‘Confessions of a Champagne Socialist’ follows; an honest and gripping track blending unsurprisingly political lyrics with an underlying, almost-military-like drum throughout, resulting in a song that sounds like a movement on the march.
‘Next in Line’ signals the midway point in the EP, with a solid track that blends aspects of punk, indie and pop throughout.
Following the EP’s three studio tracks, the final two additions are live recordings giving a flavour of the band’s excellent performing talents.
‘8 Years’ is not unlike some of Pete Doherty’s work; boasting a cocktail of high paced and impressive musicianship with just enough of a shambolically ramshackle style to produce a highlight of the EP – if you love the likes of ‘The Delaney’ from the Libs, you’ll undoubtedly enjoy this.
Similar parallels exist in closing track ‘Troubles’, but certainly not to the extent it detracts from the unique sound that this Swedish-Scottish alliance is impressively purveying.
Check them out, Glasgow pop with Swedish chords just might be your new thing!
Words: Jason Henderson
