It was less than a year ago that we introduced this band to our readers. What caught my attention about them was their unique approach to the creation of their music and their love for the simple home grown authenticity in its craftsmanship. What was special about The Acetates was that they took on the ethos of a self-produced and self-distributed DIY approach to making music. Forgoing all the traditional and technical method of recording that can sometimes make a record seem too over produced. This to me was a daring but refreshing move but a move that has insured total freedom and creative control over their sound and a deeper appreciation for the artistry of making music.
When I first stumbled upon them they only had two songs to their name, fresh meat if you like their début single “Hey Siste” is a sunny side up serving of acoustic folk mellow gold. While their recently released follow up “Self Portrait” is a delightful balance of twangy guitar, harmonica and steady strumming percussion. Their vocals are simple and stripped back but the bands easy and relaxed vibe is as warm as the Californian sun. Fast forward to 9 months The Acetates band have expanded on their creativity, moving from a two piece to a 5 strong band of brothers. These native California show a real respect and refresh attitude towards music and their debut self-titled EP is a real treat for the ears. I’m delighted to find that these two songs have made their way on to the EP and sound as fresh as ever.
The EP carries on from their previous offerings as the band bring a charming touch to American folk revival. Track “Half and Half” is a stripped back acoustic number with a toe tapping and addictive beat. The harmonic solo gives it that extra spring of enthusiasm as the troublesome free beat is full of catchy rhythm. “Great Escape” has hooking guitars and vocal ensnares that embrace a deep rooted country sound while “Bearded Bums” twangs with the country drawl tone and placid harmonies of Crosby, Still and Nash. A fantastic and likeable EP full of the heart of summer.
You can download the EP from The Acetates Bandcamp page and if pay day is still a while a way then no worries as the EP is on offer as a digital download at a name-your-price donation. For those of you who would like a more physical copy then the CD is available to buy here.
