This is not a music review, it is a music suggestion. A while back I found myself listening to some pretty awesome music on Buffalo State's radio station, WBNY 91.3. The station is always playing music that I like, and for anyone fortunate enough to live within distance of the station's radio reach, it's cool to hear independent music being played by students who love music. One particular day I happened to come across a song by the Sleeping Kings of Iona (The Kings) playing on the station. I can't remember what song it was, but I later found that is was off a CD called We Found a Love In the Streets But It Was Not Ours. Now, at the time I assumed that it was not a local band that I was listening to... regardless, I picked up the phone and dialed 878-5104 (WBNY).
The DJ that answered informed me that the band I was listening to was indeed from Buffalo and was one of his favorite local bands. It was then that I swung by New World Record to snag the CD. For those of you that might be fans of Hooverphonic, The Kings are of similar ilk.
I know that bands are not always keen on being compared to other bands, but I was a big fan of Hooverphonic and was psyched that not only had I discovered a great new band... they were also local. The band members, J.Scott Mcintosh, Ray Fulton, Molly Grace and Christopher Groves have put together a ethereal mix of songs that incorporate subversive vocals and an incredible cross section of instruments that push and pull the listener along. The band's myspace page lists their influences as Mogwai, Brian Eno, bjork, Joy Division, Sigur Ros, Aphex Twin, Arthur Russell, Bark Psychosis, DJ Shadow, Stone Roses and Mum. That should tell you a bit about the types of music that you might experience while engaging with the band.
I'm still kicking myself that I missed their live performance at Mohawk Place recently, so I'll have to settle on the CD. Check out their myspace page to gat a taste of the music, and if you like it go pick up the CD at New World... and keep your eyes open for the band playing at a venue near you. New World Record 765 Elmwood Ave in Buffalo (716) 883-3472