The gentle art of the band name.
Normally the final discussion in the opening stages of a group’s life, a well chosen moniker can make the difference between success and ignoble failure.
In that respect, Cambridge based group Alt-J aren’t making life easy for themselves. Grabbing the 
symbol – the shortcut keystroke for the delta sign on an Apple computer – the band immediately place themselves outwith the continuum of most British guitar acts.
The music isn’t an easy thing to get your head around, either. Frontman Joe Newman has a beautiful, fluttering voice which eases into a falsetto.
Comparions with Wild Beasts are difficult to avoid, but in reality what the two bands share is a questing nature. Alt-J have released only a few tracks thus far, but what we have heard is incredibly difficult to place.
Artistic, cerebral and emotionally involving Alt-J release their new double A-side single today (February 27th). ‘Matilda’ and ‘Fitzpleasure’ are two contrasting pieces of songwriting, yet both demonstrate a group who are rapidly coming into their own.
‘Matilda’ is our latest Track of the Day. Referencing Donovan is always going to attract our attention, and the folk infused track unfolds with a rare grace and originality.
Listen to it now…
