Following the likes of Peace, Swim Deep, Jaws and Superfood, Pleasure House may be the next popular band to come out of Birmingham in the awkward-to-name-indie genre. The combination of strong basslines, light and catchy guitar riffs and nimble drumming provides a beautiful rhythm similar to that explored by Peace. The first song from their demo, ‘Blow My Mind’, is rhythmically solid throughout, supplying some backing harmonies that complement frontman Alex Heffernan’s slick and assured vocals.
[bandcamp width=100% height=120 album=4000004906 size=large bgcol=ffffff linkcol=0687f5 tracklist=false artwork=small]
Whilst achieving a signature upbeat sound in ‘Blow My Mind’, we do not appreciate fully how honest and perceptive the band’s lyrics are until ‘Stay For A While’, a song more mellow and pragmatic than the hypnotic optimism achieved in others. Lines like “put our best foot forward in the right direction but it’s all selection” portray the subtle determination and persistence behind the soft beats. More sentimental harmonies follow a smooth guitar solo that further affirms the instrumental and creative artistry of Pleasure House.
From the confident and entertaining beats that their demo is built on to the raw, true and passionate lyricism, it becomes clear that this is a necessary band for lone listening to their tales of love and life, and for any house party that flirts with the music of the indie scene sprouting from the Second City. Pleasure House are clearly a talented quartet and we should all be excited to hear the upcoming material from their time spent recently in the studio.
The band has built up a loyal fanbase in the Midlands and it is very likely that with future releases more will be aware of their talent. They may become a big name in indie music, so keep an eye on them.
Words by Ewan