The alternative music scene is being invaded by Germany, by none other than Milky Chance. ‘Down By the River’, a single from the duo’s debut album Sadnecessary released in 2014, combines reggae and folk influences and acoustic folk instrumentation to bring listeners right to a happy place of their childhood, surrounded by a campfire and a relaxing tune.
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qlGQoxzdwP4&w=740&h=422]
This single, like the rest of the album, is worth a listen to. It uniquely brings into the spotlight music styles which have been generally withheld from alternative music. If you’re apprehensive about listening because you’re used to an Arctic Monkey’s type of alternative and not reggae or folk, it still retains a certain amount of typical “alternative” features to captivate a crowd accustomed to different sounds.
If this German duo sparks your interest and you live in the US, pay them a visit on their upcoming US tour starting in March.
Words by Victoria