Efterklang - I Was Playing Drums

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4...according to our Dave on Thu 15 Apr, 2010.

These chipmunks latest release is a swish affair. More sophisticated then 18 Cary Grants and not half as strange sounding, Efterklang have "raised the bar" again. Epic sounding neo classicism at its finest. The Brodericks have played a massive part in making this single one of the most grandiose things I've heard in ages. Peter takes care of the string arrangements and lil' sister Heather lends her bittersweet vocals to the proceedings. They still have a long way to go though before they become my favourite Brodericks. This mantle has and will be held for some time by Matthew Broderick (War Games is still in my top 10 favourite films). Anyway, this single should become an instant classic and if the musical gods are smiling upon me it will..if not then I'm not listening to music again for at least 12 seconds...

•   Copenhagen-based Efterklang explore a new realm with ‘Magic Chairs’, their first full- length record for 4AD and their third in the band’s decade-long existence.

•   Well regarded for their unique fusion of left-of-centre electronic beats and grand orchestral gestures, the band eschewed the familiar territory of previous albums ‘Tripper’ and ‘Parades’ for something more streamlined, deconstructed and melodious.

•   Calling on the mixing talents of Gareth Jones (Depeche Mode, Interpol, Mogwai, Grizzly Bear) Efterklang have delivered what is possibly their most accessible album to date.

•   Album highlight ‘I Was Playing Drums’ is a perfect illustration of this shift in approach. Stripping back the song to its core it ebbs and flows around a syncopated beat and bass. Casper Clausen’s vocals take centre stage and as the momentum builds signature Efterklang elements come to the fore (a medley of strings, an electronic buzz).

•   With aesthetics continuing to be a hugely important component for Efterklang, the band have once again collaborated with celebrated design duo Hvass&Hannibal to produce the artwork for the single. The hand-dyed ribbons are a recurring motif echoed on the ‘Magic Chairs’ sleeve.

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