Debut release from BNQT, a new indie super-group conceived and led by Eric Pulido of Midlake.The introductory set includes ten new, original songs and features five vocalists – Ben Bridwell of Band of Horses, Alex Kapranos of Franz Ferdinand, Fran Healy of Travis, Jason Lytle of Grandaddy, and Pulido – who wrote and sing two tracks each, with backing from other Midlake members McKenzie Smith (drums), Joey McClellan (guitar) and Jesse Chandler (keys). ‘Volume 1’ was recorded and produced mostly at their studio in Denton, Texas.
The concept of BNQT (pronounced “Banquet”) came to Pulido while touring Midlake's 2013 release, “Antiphon”. Gathering a number of contrasting yet complementary artists he’d befriended or shared the stage with, Pulido set out to establish an environment in which they could collaborate: “That's what art is about for me,” Pulido says, “creating with other people that you love and appreciate.”
The idea for BNQT was enthusiastically embraced by all involved, but with the artists stretched across the globe, recordings were split both with travel to Denton and remotely over the net. Over a year and some change, songs grew from demos to fully realized recordings, with Pulido guiding the way, and encouraging the artists to stretch out into new, uncharted territory. The resulting work is full of surprises, a collection that feels oddly familiar and attractively alien.
The concept of BNQT (pronounced “Banquet”) came to Pulido while touring Midlake's 2013 release, “Antiphon”. Gathering a number of contrasting yet complementary artists he’d befriended or shared the stage with, Pulido set out to establish an environment in which they could collaborate: “That's what art is about for me,” Pulido says, “creating with other people that you love and appreciate.”
The idea for BNQT was enthusiastically embraced by all involved, but with the artists stretched across the globe, recordings were split both with travel to Denton and remotely over the net. Over a year and some change, songs grew from demos to fully realized recordings, with Pulido guiding the way, and encouraging the artists to stretch out into new, uncharted territory. The resulting work is full of surprises, a collection that feels oddly familiar and attractively alien.
STAFF COMMENTS
Andy says: If you look at the list of artists on this unique album you'll know that the melodies are well and truly catered for, but sound-wise you might not expect this glorious celebration of all things early 70's. A bit like Midlake's work behind John Grant but with room for some rock'n'roll riffage, swoonsome Floyd-style synths and even a glam stomper. Ace!TRACK LISTING
1. Restart
2. Unlikely Force
3. 100 Million Miles
4. Mind Of A Man
5. Hey Banana
6. Real Love
7. Failing At Feeling
8. L.A. On My Mind
9. Tara
10. Fighting The World