Song Of The Day No.15

Kwangchow

by King Biscuit Time (Black Gold, 2006)

Steve Mason had released a couple of Eps, in 1998 and 2000, under his King Biscuit Time moniker before the surprising break up of his previous band, The Beta Band, in 2004. After the break up he decided to concentrate on his solo stuff and continues releasing material with his next record due out in May on the Domino imprint, Double Six.

It's not only the echoed voice in 'Kwangchow' that recalls The Beta Band stylings. Rhythmic, quick moving lyrics, a pop sensibility coupled with electronic/folktronic quirks and easy-to-get-hooked-to choruses. The song bounces along with a mild hip hop flavour created by the drum beat and guitar crunches. Mason's vocals are often accompanied in chorus by other echo-affected voices which, coupled with the bit of repetition in the lyrics gives an anthem-esque feel to the song without being stadium rock-ish.

AR