Polyphonic Spree Songwriter DVD Project

One of the most intriguing voices in American music, Polyphonic Spree founder Tim De Laughter has revealed a new project which combines music and visual art.

The Polyphonic Spree are a bit like the Mormons but with better tunes. The band are an ever-evolving cult, with bands members required to wear flowing robes. The group continually vary, changing between a dozen and almost thirty members.

All of which makes them a nightmare to organise for tours. With their vast sound and hugely uplifting songwriting, The Polyphonic Spree are a sensational live act - if they can find a venue that can cope with thirty feet stamping onstage.

Perhaps the band's finest hour came in 2004, when The Polyphonic Spree were invited to perform at the Nobel Peace Prize concert. The band were given the privilege of honoring Wangari Maathai before a worldwide television audience.

The band have not released any new material since 'The Fragile Army' in 2007, which was acclaimed by fans but missed out on the charts. A lost classic in the making, the record saw Tim DeLaughter expand his songwriting palette.

DeLaughter has been recruited for an exciting new art project. Together with New York visual artist Rolyn Barthelman the songwriter will work on a forthcoming DVD that is said to act as sensory stimulation for young babies.

No material has yet been heard from the project, which has been given the working title of 'Wee See'. The DVD will feature basic shapes and patterns tailored to the needs of newborns.

The songwriter has worked on a number of film projects before. At one stage in their career The Polyphonic Spree were signed to an offshoot of animation firm Disney, and planned to write soundtracks.

However nothing came of this relationship, although The Polyphonic Spree did score the 2005 film 'Thumbsucker' with their soundtrack eventually being released as an album in its own right.

The Polyphonic Spree could return soon, with Tim DeLaughter reportedly working on material for the band's fourth full length release. Now firmly independent, the band will release any new material on their own Good Records label.

'Wee Saw' is available now online.