New Releases: Julian Plenti Is...Skyscraper
Image via Julian PlentiJulian Plenti is an interesting character. If we're to believe his record label, he's a long time song writer who finally got a band together to record his first album. Julian Plenti may have once been a struggling solo artist, but, he also happens to be the alter ego of Interpol front man Paul Banks. Alter ego side projects usually bring to mind the horror that was Chris Gaines, but fear not as Julian Plenti Is...Skyscraper is a finely crafted album that gives a new sound to one of rock's most distinctive voices.
While the melancholic lyrics may remind some of Interpol the two projects are vastly different. Overall, the album has a raw sound without too much post-production tampering or effects. Songs such as No Chance Survival and Girl On the Sporting News give focus to the vocals as strings and acoustic guitars provide the musical backdrop. Madrid Song has the single, emotionally charged line "Come have at us, we are strong" repeated over lush piano chords resulting in a song that sounds like it belongs on a Moby album rather than that of a rock front man. The more up tempo songs, such as Only If You Run, Games for Days, and Fun That We Have, will draw more obvious, although undeserved, Interpol comparisons.
With its own distinct sound and personality the album is a resounding first release for a talented vocalist. Look out for select live dates in support of the album release and check out the album at Matador Records, iTunes or at independent records stores.
Simon Whittle
Julian Plenti has recently announced US tour dates including a stop in San Francisco at the Great American Music Hall on November 18th. Ticket information can be found here and tour information can be found on his official site.
Reader Comments (1)
Interpol is probably the best band to come on the scene since 1990, I can't wait to hear this new side project!