The Relays are an energetic four-piece, UK-based indie rock outfit. Comprised of Adam Redmond (vocals/guitar), Dean Smith (guitar), Paul Hitchen (bass) and Ben Harrington (drums), the band has recently seen a return to action after a hiatus of a few years with the release of its debut album Under Different Stars.
The Relays – Under Different Stars
The album was originally recorded in 2012 at the now defunct Jaraf House Studios in Wigan, UK and produced by sound engineer John Kettle.
However, in a dramatic, unexpected turn of events, the album’s only copy was lost while the band was on tour. About the incident, frontman Adam Redmond adds: “When we came back, no one could find the only copy of the album. We considered re-recording it, but we didn’t really have the money and you never get the same atmosphere when you try and redo songs.” However, by happy chance, the album copy was found 10 years later, under a bed, by the person responsible for mastering it. That was the spark that reignited the band and Under Different Stars has finally seen the light of day this year.
Under Different Stars is a pure indie triumph, enriched by a boyish drawing power and space rock-like themes.
An indie rock affair to its core, from the making to the music itself, the album possesses that rough, familiar garage rock feel that translates into bright and fuzzy guitar tones, driving rhythms and disquiet-filled, raw vocals. Despite this somewhat abrasive and fierce accent, the songs manage to present a boyish, irresistible catchiness that permeates the mood, with the album’s overall outer-space concept adding to that.
‘South Pacific’ kicks off the record in great fashion with its compelling rhythm guitar work and heartfelt vocal delivery while ‘Under Different Stars’ leans more towards atmospheric, evocative passages. Despite this, the track retains the intensity found in the opener. Then, the album’s centrepiece ‘Diamond’ plunges right into with its increasingly energetic, biting vocals before crashing under in a restrained, elusive outro.
The uptempo cut ‘Last Night She Said’ features an incisive, instantly captivating chorus that is promptly mirrored by the subsequent pop-flavoured, gorgeous number ‘(Like A) Satellite’. Lastly, the acoustic ballad ‘As Tears Subside’ closes the album on a strong, emotional note thanks to its rich arrangements and Adam’s passionate vocal execution.
Under Different Stars celebrates The Relays’ past of intense creativity while also marking an important stage in their present and future. However, above all, the album stands on its own as a piece of high-quality indie rock, elevated by its youthful, unpolished appeal and fascinating space rock aesthetics.
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Words Fidel Beserra
