Go Native
Sleep Patterns
April 5 2014 (Scruff of the Neck Records)
7/10
Words: Leanne Crowley
The debut EP by Manchester's Go Native opens in a style that sets the seal on all five tracks which follow. 'Beaten by Butterflies', with its fluid synth beginning that ensnares before the drums kick in hard, is accentuated by the strong and domineering vocals of Nick Toone. The overall theme is one of moody darkness, with an almost nostalgic feel, and sets a strong start to the EP.
Title track 'Sleep Patterns' follows. The bridge of this track is eerie, with the synth of Catherine Bebbington and the drums of Joe Freegard in unison, before Toone's guitar is added to make it a trio. The bass can be heard as an underlying influence but its presence is succinct. The track, ending suddenly ad it does after the intensity which preceded it, leaves a feeling of wanting more.
'Napoleon' has a jingly synth opening which is juxtaposed against the calm vocals which offer a clever use of lyrics; "small man syndrome" being used to great effect and adding credence to the title of the track. The four elements of the band are complimentary of one another and the track finishes with a strong instrumental. The feel is upbeat, strong hints of electronica shining through.
Previous single 'Atom Heart' released in February, has strong synth beats and effects which influence the song throughout, with the enchanting vocals drawing the listener in. The minor influence of the guitars, bass and drums on this track at the beginning become a much stronger presence as the track progresses.
'Dunes' offers strong synth and drums once more, but here the bass of Alex Kirk is much more prevalent and the added guitar and vocals make for what is set to be a popular dancefloor number. Closing on 'Electric Chair', the use of the synth employed in a different way adds another dimension. Hints of Cut Copy can be detected here, and this feels like the 'show-off' track of the EP, with the band taking the opportunity to showcase their skills as musicians.
'Sleep Patterns' is a polished product which is precise and concise, offering a balanced approach to musical elements that makes it one that is overall highly listenable. It also becomes understandable on hearing why this band are receiving so much praise from industry 'names' and securing such highly prized support slots. Go Natives go.
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