Song, by Toad

As news, it went somewhat neglected on these pages because of personal Toad ties to Broken Records, but at the same time as they were signing to 4AD, another excellent Scottish band were making the same commitment, and announcing an imminent new album at the same time: Camera Obscura.

Let’s Get Out of This Country was a brilliant album, and I am hugely looking forward to the new record.  Let’s… took me a while to get into, in large part due to opening with the slightly misleadingly infectious Lloyd, I’m Ready to Be Heartbroken.  The rest of the album, for all it was still catchy of course, was a lot warmer and more enveloping than bouncy and poppy.  So having been wrong-footed from the start it took me just a little while to adjust.  I went to see them a year or so ago and, amazingly, Mrs. Toad both accompanied me and really enjoyed it.  I honestly never have any idea when that’s going to happen, the woman’s completely unpredictable.

Anyhow, they have also, in advance of the release, decided to pass on the title track of the album to the rest of us as a teaser, and here is it: My Maudlin Career.  It’s certainly classic Camera Obscura, and both that shimmer of piano that tiptoes its way through the song and the return of Tracyanne’s gorgeous voice fill me with optimism. It’s out on the 20th April.

Camera Obscura – My Maudlin Career

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Camera Obscura – Super Trouper

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And one from Let’s Get Out of This Country:
Camera Obscura – Razzle Dazzle Rose

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Well, we have a spot of excellent news here: Toad pals Broken Records have signed to one of the best independent record labels around: 4AD.

This is brilliant news for a number of reasons: firstly, they’re lovely guys and I am genuinely delighted for them; secondly, they have worked their arses off this year, at great cost to themselves, in order to play every damn festival and gig known to man and because of the financial crisis they have been messed about quite a few times, so I’m chuffed it’s finally signed and sealed; thirdly, they were one of the first bands I ever ’spotted’, and indeed gave them their first ever write-up – not that this made any difference in the long term, but it makes me feel good; and fourthly, having them out there and making increasingly big headlines is good for every band in this city as it helps put Edinburgh on the musical map.

It’s very difficult to explain the excitment the first time you hear a brand new band who genuinely, definitely have it, and this was the first time I’d ever felt it.  I remember coming back from that gig absolutely buzzing, and tried really hard to restrain myself from frothing in the review.

They are currently recording their debut album, which is scheduled for release in the Summer.  I couldn’t be happier for the lads and Song, by Toad officially* wishes them the most sincere congratulations.  Can’t wait to hear the album lads, well done.

Broken Records – All So Tired

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*’Officially’?  What the fuck am I talking about?