Ones to watch: Givers

Graceland has become an important reference point in recent years. Islands used it as inspiration for their 2006 album Return To The Sea. That Vampire Weekend are fans was obvious as soon as their first songs started attracting the attention of blogs across the world. And now, you can add Givers to that list – their self-titled debut EP calls to mind Paul Simon’s finest on several occasions, and as someone who loves that record, I mean that as the highest of compliments.

That’s not to say that they’re living entirely in the past. From a contemporary standpoint, opening track “Up, Up, Up” calls to mind the likes of Marnie Stern and The Dirty Projectors, marrying fantastic guitar work to duelling vocals. As soon as it kicks in, the listener cannot help but be on board.

Similarly engaging, “Meantime” is a multi-layered effort that shifts gears on several occasions during its near-five minute runtime – at the halfway point it inexplicably (but brilliantly) morphs into a joyously upbeat, South American carnival-esque celebration that defies you not to nod your head along to the rhythm.

“Ceiling Of Plankton” is a notable change of pace, with a chorus that practically sounds like a lullaby. And by the time “Saw You First” comes around, you realise how adept Givers are at adopting a range of styles. To even attempt such versatility is admirable, and they achieve it marvellously.

Will a full-length release hopefully due before the end of the year, don’t be surprised if Givers put out a record that will be both much-lauded, and fully deserving of the acclaim. Until then, Givers serves as the perfect introduction to a band that have great things ahead of them.

http://www.myspace.com/giversmusic

- Kristian Jackson

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