SHANTY – Leave Me Out EP + Video

“A very talented young band of players…” - David Rodigan, BBC 1Xtra, 2014

London-based party-reggae collective Shanty are pleased to announce their debut EP, ‘Leave Me Out’, due for release on 22nd September.

Following the release of their debut single ‘Blackout’ earlier this year, the seven-piece’s four-track EP now follows suit, showcasing cross influences which range from soul, electronic and hip-hop, all embedded in a signature sound characterized by pulsing bass and intricate horn-lines.

From the offset, opening track ‘Leave Me Out’ demonstrates the band’s penchant for crafting soulful grooves. This laid back introduction is definitive of the Shanty sound, with reverb-laden guitars laying down the foundations before silky vocal harmonies come exquisitely into play, creating an explosive tune that calls to mind the likes of The Police.

Delicate horn-licks are an ever-present yet subtle ingredient and catchy vocal hooks dominate the EP, with subsequent track ‘Bohemian Soul’ providing a lingering feel-good summer vibe. The vocal talents of frontman Ben Willis arecomplemented by the vibrant brass section throughout, culminating in a tune that’s sure to inspire all music fans, regardless of their musical preferences.    

Penultimate track, ‘Rise Up’, is a dub-heavy anthem with a stand out sing-along chorus. Sprinkled with echoes, reverbs and delays, the track features musical elements reminiscent of dub kingpin King Tubby.

‘One More’, the fourth and final track, brings the EP to an emphatic end. The ‘end of the night’ feel to this track justifies its placement on the record, whilst still packing a reggae-fuelled punch, with soaring vocals combining with the regimented rhythm section to create a thumping classic.

Hailing from North-West London, the eclectic outfit’s modern twist on classic roots reggae has seen them appear at prestigious UK music festivals including Boomtown Fair, Leopallooza, Secret Garden Party and Glastonbury. They’ve shared the stage with genre-mates The Skints, Prince Fatty and Neville Staple of The Specials, who they kicked off their 2013 tour supporting. The boys have also been championed by Gary Crowley, who playlisted them on his BBC Londonshow as part of BBC Introducing.

Having recorded the EP at the infamous Sawmills studio in Cornwall, known for hosting the likes of Oasis, The Verve, Supergrass and The Stone Roses, Shanty are already treading in the footsteps of giants. With their stomping bass, soulful hooks and party vibes, this emerging band of reggae brothers look set to make a solid impact on the scene with this highly anticipated debut.

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soundcloud.com/shantyband

youtube.com/ShantyBandUK

TRACK LISTING

LEAVE ME OUT BOHEMIAN SOUL RISE UP ONE MORE