IV of Spades and Water for Elephants

Today I have some music for you which has a unique origin. There are so many styles of music, coming from all over the world and across time periods. One such style of music that we rarely get to hear from is called Pinoy rock. Essentially, this is a brand of rock that was born in the Philipines. Interestingly enough, Pinoy rock is an umbrella term to refer to any kind of Filipino rock, whether it is alternative, ska, heavy metal, punk, or more recently, indie. This is where our band of the day, IV of Spades, comes in. A rather new band who made their first appearance in 2014, IV of Spades represents a new ear in Pinoy rock.

The indie band brings something refreshing and beautiful to not only the Filipino stage but the global one as well. The band is incredibly unique and has an individuality which shines through their music and performances. IV of Spades is heavily influenced by the 70s both musically and as a band. Their looks always tend towards some groovy 70s vibed outfits, a completely retro homage. Musically, the band tends to mix a lot of sounds from the 70's: disco, funk, alternative rock, and a more cultural genre, Manila Sound. All genres were staples of the 70's era, and it is no shock to see why IV of Spades creates a silky smooth blend of all these classic genres.

This song is a beautiful demonstration of this genre blend, not to mention it is also such a warm song. The track is filled with funk falsettos, a perfect match for their retro style and atmosphere. This song is auditorially striking, a truly wonderful and uplifting musical journey. And better yet, there is enough of funk and disco in the soundscape to cause unconscious swaying and movement. While I can't say this is a "dance" track, it has all the elements necessary to still be a groove. The well played and placed guitar riffs and solos accompany vocals which are soft and gentle as a feather, but still full of life and substance. The vocal harmonies are absolutely to die for as well. Overall, the vocals in this song are so warm and sweet, offering a tender wave of sound to wash over our ears. The song also has outrageously catchy melodies, and even if you cannot sing the words, you can hum the melody. Best of all, this song is lovely and upbeat. Though it has all the atmosphere and synth of an indie rock song, there is a freshness and lightness to the entire mood of the song. It is as if the song is glazed over in a soft pastel yellow, offering a warm atmosphere for the moving notes.

This song has a very dreamy kind of atmosphere. The track makes you feel as if you are floating on a cloud or just drifting through the wind. But there is still a nice lushness to the track, created through the pressing drums and calming vocals. And of course, we cannot forget the soaring falsettos! The entire song sounds as if it is almost in a haze, but a beautiful and enchanting kind of mist. It is as if we are seeing a sunset with clouds slowly creating a misty and foggy cover over the skyscrapers. It is bright but hazy, warm yet tranquil. IV of Spades is a band that I have been recently introduced to but is one that I will continue to explore and listen to.

Today's instrumental song is from the film Water for Elephants. Supposedly, this is a striking and moving film, though I have yet to see it. However, the score is another matter entirely. This score is absolutely beautiful and even haunting at times. There is a slight vaudeville aspect which I absolutely love considering the movie is a period piece. And I found it so fitting that both tracks of the day are surrounded and influenced by older eras. I hope you enjoy the music and please feel free to comment!




Comments

Popular posts from this blog

Kongos and Beastie Boys

Ima Robot and Tame Impala

Zayn Malik and Interstellar