Kavalier is an alternative four-piece band based in Kilkeel, Co. Down consisting of members Ryan O’ Neill(Guitar/Vocals), Tommy Rice (Guitar), James Burns (Bass) and Mark Mc Donald (Drums). Their formation was brought about in the winter of 2015, evoked by a desire to relieve boredom while simultaneously combating the cold winter climate. The loft space of an old, post-war knitting factory would later become the bands headquarters. Quickly they began to hone in on a sound that concluded the band had potential to develop beyond a means of alleviating winter boredom. As winter turned to spring and into the summer, the band had narrowed down their newly written material to 3 songs. These select tracks would later be recorded and compiled into their debut EP ‘Songs For Walter’. This year the band had the chance to play at Electric Picnic after being chosen as one of eleven acts to play the “Play The Picnic Stage” Courtesy of RTE 2FM.
‘Songs For Walter’ is a three track treasure box overflowing with luscious melodies, calming tones and some shredding instrumentation. The delicately beautiful ‘Wake Up’ kicks off the EP with sweet gentle tones ready to lull you into an elegant state of bliss. Warm ethereal guitar melodies jingle across a soft creamy soundscape. The cushioned bounce on drums and bass give a divine feathery light texture to this sublime track. The sharp injections on guitar and shredding solo pierce the calm track with a zesty sting adding acute spurts of brightness. ‘Stop, Rewind’ follows continuing with a supple tone, but this time the four-piece add a little more grit to the creamy flow of the EP. The stop start jumps give a jitter to the track while winding guitar melodies weave playfully throughout. Another delicate mind easing song that is oh so easy and delightful to listen to. ‘Drop 65’, the final track on the EP shows us the heavier gritty side to Kavalier. It’s swagger soaked attitude driven and darker. The guitars take a rough rugged approach with a choppy fuzzed aggressive element. The drums pound while the bass rumbles creating a meatier more rock infused track.
Kavalier ‘Songs For Walter’ EP displays their knack for beautiful organic melodies, slick intricate guitar work and sophisticated musicianship. It’s a tight EP that place’s these guys firmly in the ones to watch list.
Stream ‘Songs For Walter’ below
