Label: Independent Artist

For my birthday this year, my housemate was kind enough to buy me a ticket to one of Mumford and Sons’ Splendour In The Grass sideshows.  Prior to the gig however, I was a little apprehensive about what to expect.  Partially this was because I didn’t know what to expect from the group live, but also because I had never heard either of the opening bands, Alberta Cross and Boy and Bear.  While the former would ultimately disappoint me gravely, I am glad I didn’t decide to turn up to the show late and miss the latter.  With a sound that bears some similarities to Mumford and Sons, the reason for including the group on the bill was obvious.  Blending folk, country and rock, Boy and Bear’s debut EP With Emperor Antarctica is far more than a shallow rip off however; the release sees the band not only putting their influences on display, but indeed developing their own unique musical identity.

While a mere fifteen minutes long, Boy and Bear have managed to put out an EP that is both interesting and cohesive throughout.  “Blood To Gold” manages to open proceedings strongly with its robust vocal melodies and interplaying acoustic and electric guitars.  The drum work tops the track off nicely, driving but not dominating the other instruments.  If anything, the follow up “Rabbit Song” is even more catchy, with a very memorable vocal hook proving to be its strongest feature.  The track also best demonstrates Boy and Bear’s strength at manipulating dynamics, with the volume rising and falling throughout to great effect.  The remaining three tracks are all equally enjoyable, although “The Storm” is perhaps the standout.  The subtle yet creative tom-tom groove provides an attractive counter point to the song’s vocal melody, but once again does so without drowning the rest of the band.

Overall, With Emperor Antarctica is a strong debut from Boy and Bear.  While only comprising five tracks, the EP displays not only the group’s broad stylistic influences, but also shows off their ability to creatively utilise dynamics within their music.  Perhaps the only criticism that can be levelled at the band is that With Emperor Antarctica is too brief; after all, if the EP is this good, how much better would an album have been?

Boy and Bear are currently about to embark on the Australia wide “Blood To Gold” tour.