Continuing the thread of artists who should be far more famous than they are…
A browse round other people’s blogs brought up The Men I Trust, a Canadian 3 piece who despite being new to me have enough of a following to be able to tour in China, as well as North America. They describe themselves as “Dream Pop” which puts me in mind of The Cocteau Twins, and there is certainly a touch of that band about them. Their current album release ‘Oncle Jazz‘ is available at a pay what you want price on Bandcamp (although I’m trusting you to put in a decent amount). Touches of Downtempo, house as well as guitars drenched in the chorus pedal and some excellent bass playing. Oddly their breakthough song ‘Lauren’ is the main absence from the album, but you can buy it on its own so that’s ok.
The relaxed vibe is great for a work soundtrack, as it has been in the shed this morning, but it never slides into aural wallpaper land. As well as the indie pop, occasional flashes of Cowboy Junkies style Americana and 80s funky synths drift past to keep things inetresting. There is also a French feel to much of what is going on here Perhaps that should be Canadian-ness, singer Emma’s voice does have a vague resemblance to compatriot Béatrice Martin, ‘Cœur de pirate’, although the music is quite different. Top songs are the two videos below, ‘Show Me How’ and ‘Seven’ which features the album’s sole guitar solo moment. 24 songs may seem like a lot but at around 3 minutes each they never outstay their welcome. Men I Trust should certainly be enjoying the success of current top Dream Pop faves London Granmmar, assuming that is what they want. Count me a fan.
The good news is that they are coming to the UK next February (Covid permitting) and are at St Lukes, Glasgow on the 12th. You can expect to find me in the audience…
