Source: Album Artwork
London-based indie punk trio Happy Accidents are about to release their new sophomore album Everything But The Here And Now on the 16th February. The upbeat indie band hasn’t been around for that long, but have already gained the attention of the mainstream (Reading and Leeds Festival, 2000 Trees, Noisey, BBCR1). And with their spirited, infectious (and unpredictable) melodies and unpolished vocals, it’s easy to see why they’ve gained so much popularity.
The album kicks off with the moody ‘Nunhead’ and singer Rich’s subtle, relaxed vocals. The clean track isn’t unnecessarily complex and features a simple, fairly steady melody with buzzy guitars and smooth, ambient tones. ‘Wait It Out’ is a rapid tune with energetic vocals, intricate, electronic riffs and pulsating, synthy embellishments.
The upbeat ‘A Better Plan’ sees drummer Phoebe take on vocals and the thick, intense ‘Text Me When You’re Home’ shows a more atmospheric side to the band. The track features twinkly 80s flourishes and brief, but lasting, moments of striking, magnetic drums.
Singer Rich and drummer Phoebe join vocal forces in the vibrant ‘Free Time’. The exciting track takes on a concept we can all relate to – “I need more free time / that would solve my problems”. The song switches between its steady, repetitive verses, and a bright, animated chorus. The track goes through its own emo phase and slowly transitions into a moody, 90s indie-rock track. (We greatly enjoy the emo phase, obviously.)
Happy Accidents have created an album that is cohesive, atmospheric and intricate, and we dig it. Creating an indie record that isn’t boring, majorly depressing, or the same song 12 times, is no easy task, but Happy Accidents make it seem effortless. There is something special about this band that we just can’t quite put our finger on, but we definitely want to keep listening to find out.
