West Wickhams – Magenta (2022)
Originally from Tresco on the Isles of Scilly, but now based in the UK, Jon Othello and Elle Flores are a self-proclaimed “psychedelic noir deux peace” – in my words, they’re an exceptional eclectic pairing that is completely inimitable. Influenced by pipe organs, rock and roll autobiographies, gothic abstract paintings, mist, optical illusions, Andy Warhol and Edgar Allan Poe, West Wickhams are inspired by life in its entirety. The latest addition to their discography is the EP Magenta.
Following their five-track EP Consider Her Way, West Wickhams release another five-track musical masterpiece with Magenta. A psychedelic journey through a transcendental soundscape filled with wistful haze, whimsical mist and a haunting lilt in the cinematic ambience, Magenta is an experience of a different dimension of being. Reminiscent of the synth-pop sounds of the 80s, the tracks have a nostalgic flair; however, there is a tinge of modern-day bedroom pop underlying the delicate arrangements.
From the opening ‘Swear Above Suspicion’, you are set adrift on a glistening sonic river wrapped in a warm blanket – and this continues through ‘This Is A Hang Up’, ‘Even The Heathers Ask Why’. Yet, despite a continuity of a psychedelic haze, there is diversity underlying West Wickhams’ foggy style. In ‘Even The Heathers Ask Why’, a bolder, almost indie-rock feeling makes an appearance. ‘The Sentinels’ is a particularly interesting track as it adopts a gothic grittiness in Magenta. Similar to The Cure, there is an enigmatic flow with whispered vocals and full-bodied instrumentation.
Interestingly enough, while there is a melancholic tone to the EP, the album actually touches on more light-hearted and jovial elements. West Wickhams explain that “magenta is the colour of universal harmony and emotional balance. It contains the passion, power and energy of red restrained by the introspection and quiet energy of violet. It promotes compassion, kindness and cooperation…”
For more from West Wickhams check out their Facebook, Twitter and Spotify.
This artist was discovered via Musosoup #sustainablecurator
