Article by: Jessica Gorrell
In order to make it big in this cutthroat industry, you’ve got to know what separates the boys from the men, the good from the great. The secret to this coveted success was discovered by few and shared by none, leaving many to wonder how bands like The Beatles and The Smiths gained their imminent fame. Fortunately the members of Django Django, four music aficionados from Edinburgh, had already possessed the power of greatness all along, and were not afraid to show that in their most recent album, Born Under Saturn.
This album is mesmerizing, enthralling, and… confusing. Born Under Saturn is like listening to the love child of the Beach Boys and Foster The People. Most definitely compelling, albeit confusing. As is the natural reflex when listening to an artist that’s been previously unheard, it’s normal to make comparisons to other artists that are familiar. But Django is so different from anyone that’s released a record, mostly due to the rather eclectic and immensely diverse musical knowledge that each member of the four-piece brings forth. That, I think, is the main ingredient to their success; they’ve woven their distinctive artistic backgrounds together to craft the strange sounds that are unique to only them.
The band remained unhindered throughout this project by the thought of exploring any and every style of music. This is obviously shown through the differentiation between the styles of the album’s tracks. “Giant,” the album’s opening track, seems to be the perfect example of the perplexing genre, as it showcases 60s pop-influenced harmonies, modern psychedelic synth licks, powerfully catchy leading guitar riffs and a booming bass drum, fashioned by Dave Maclean, that makes one feel as though they’re being chased by the very creature the song is named after. “Shake and Tremble,” and “Life We Know,” some of the edgier tunes, sport very Link Wray “Rumble” and (Pre-Zeppelin) Jimmy Page “She Just Satisfies” inspired guitar licks, all constructed by guitarist Vinnie Neff. “Reflections,” which opens with a LaRoux style beat and synth-y keyboards compliments of keyboardist Tommy Grace, and “Found You,” a very groovy and vibing song with a strong bass line produced by Jim Dixon, show the vast capabilities of what Django is able to produce.
Django Django, a rising powerhouse in the world of psych-rock, who’ve previously flaunted their irreplaceable skills at shows including Glastonbury, Fuji Rock, Bonnaroo and The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, will definitely storm their way into the spotlight as they take the stage for their upcoming promotional tour in the Fall.
Born Under Saturn track listing:
- Giant 8. Shot Down
- Shake And Tremble 9. High Moon
- Found You 10. Beginning to Fade
- First Light 11. 4000 Years
- Pause Repeat 12. Break the Glass
- Reflections 13. Life We Know
- Vibrations