Here's Five: Mermaidens Share Songs That Helped Shape 'Perfect Body'
Earlier this month Wellington three-piece Mermaidens rolled out their eagerly-anticipated sophomore album Perfect Body as a stellar follow-up to their 2016 debut Undergrowth. The 10-track record sees the trio (which is comprised of Lily West, Gussie Larkin and Abe Hollingsworth) further carve out a niche for themselves as purveyors of dreamy yet brooding psychedelic rock. To delve a little deeper into how they conjured up their distinctive sound, Abe shared some of the songs that helped shape Perfect Body, and it's certainly a diverse bunch!! Check his picks and scroll down for upcoming Mermaidens shows across Christchurch, Dunedin, Auckland and Wellington in coming weeks...
1. Exploded View - 'Lost Illusions'
The Exploded View album was probably my favourite album last year. 'Lost illusions' is the opening track from the album, and it has the most amazing haunting ambience. I think we were really inspired by their use of texture and restraint in dynamics.
2. Fugazi - 'Life and Limb'
Fugazi are long time favourites of ours, both for their music, and their attitude. If you haven't watched the documentary about them Instrument then you really should! Bloody inspiring stuff. 'Life and Limb' has such a beautiful balance of dissonance and harmony. The main call and response guitar line always gets me!
3. Jenny Hval - 'Conceptual Romance'
Jenny Hval knows how to pull at both the heart strings and the mind strings. Her music is both sonically beautiful and atmospheric, and really thoughtful. The imagery she uses raises some really interesting topics.
4. i.e. Crazy - 'The Ape (Plastic Surgery Song)'
I.E. Crazy had me totally spellbound the first time i saw her. Her intensity is almost terrifying live, she is channeling some kind of morbid energy.
5. King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard - 'Open Water'
This song has the best and most brutal drum beat. The doubling of the drums is super effective, and somehow never gets boring even though its a bloody long song! King Gizz are faves of ours from a long time!
Mermaidens 'Perfect Body' Tour
Friday, 18th August, Darkroom, Christchurch
Saturday 19th August, Radio One 91FM Club Show, Benessere Studios, Dunedin
Friday 1st September, The Other’s Way Festival, Auckland
Saturday 2nd September, San Fran Bathhouse, Wellington w/ The Courtneys
Tickets available HERE at UTR and in-store at the usual outlets
Head HERE for tickets to the Others Way festival
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