Golden Mixtape

There are certain bands that appropriately fit a specific season. For instance, Snow Patrol, for more than one obvious reason, is an enjoyable winter band.  However, I am not here to list the reasons why Snow Patrol is a kickass winter band. The only reason I wrote Snow Patrol down in the first place was because, in listening to the first song of Darlingside’s new self-released LP, Pilot Machines, one thought came to mind – Gary Lightbody.

Upon listening to the record’s first track, “Still,” I could only think how lead singer, Dave Senft’s voice resembled that of the Irish native. My Lightbody Syndrome got progressively worse once I was introduced to songs like, “Ava,” where the harmonies undoubtedly matched something recorded in a Snow Patrol song.

However, Darlingside does have a sound of their own, comprised of a unique blend of the mandolin and cello. “My Love,” showcases a deeply rich and sensitive cello where, if my ears are correct, “The Ancestor,” is more mandolin based. Whether a song includes cello, mandolin, or both ­– each instrument lends a depth to Darlingside’s artistry. It means something to me as a listener when a band experiments with nonconventional instruments and molds them into a particular genre.

Another mentionable characteristic of Pilot Machines, if the fine print embedded into the lyrics: “we do appreciate your patience/ your satisfaction is our first concern…” And while the narrator may be talking to his lover, these words stand out enough to make the listener stop and consider what they’re in for. The record considerably upbeat, but slowly descends into “Sweet and Low.”  The energy of creation doesn’t halt however slow the tempo.  This final track is a movement so fluid that it carries itself like a summer breeze leaving a chill to linger long after it stops blowing.

If you’re looking to find a band to carry you through all seasons, Darlingside begins a small east coast tour tomorrow, July 6^th in Providence, Rhode Island with Pilot Machines to debut on July 17th.