Vessels - Two Words & A Gesture
[Cuckundoo Records]

Championed by the likes of Steve Lamacq and Huw Stephens and hand-picked for support slot duties with none other than Brett Anderson, Leeds-based quintet Vessels are one of the brightest stars on the UK indie scene.

Indeed, their debut EP Yuki / Forever The Optimist (review) comfortably flirted with varying styles from furious post-hardcore through to electronic laced post-rock. Live, member’s trade instruments without thought and display a telepathic understanding usually only featured in established acts.

“Two Words & a Gesture” again finds Vessels exploring their possibilities, starting with huge waves of Sigur Ros style e-bowed guitar. The surprise comes with the off-kilter drum progression that unexpectedly knocks this track on its head.

Now Vessels have our attention and go about their business well, developing a strong vocal harmony shrouded in glockenspiel chimes, as the percussion and guitars behind it increase in intensity.

It seems a special band is developing here, a work in progress if you will. But each time I hear a new Vessels composition, the more they remind me of a young Radiohead. The possibilities are endless.

7" Track Listing:

A. Two Words & a Gesture
B. Clear & Calm