If you’re looking for something a little different from the norm, Scatterchild’s music might be for you! The Manchester-based artist describes their work as ‘angular emotional music’, which is certainly an apt term for the songs on their EP, The Whispers We Leave. The experimental basis of the EP means it won’t be for everyone, but those that take the plunge should find much to love!
By Jane Howkins
The EP opens up with an intro track of sorts, although it’s a lot more complete than most intros tend to sound! Alchemist (Intro) starts with the sound of some discordant string melodies, before a trickling piano appears. The vocals are added later, layering themselves well into the rest of the music. It’s a fantastic introduction to Scatterchild’s sound!
Soft Spots has a slightly different opening, starting out with some minimalist guitar notes with an almost waltzy rhythm. The track soon turns into a grungy alt-rock tune – the rawness of the guitars and the rest of the instrumentation really makes it stand out. The vocals suit this style well, having a depth of emotion to them that is sometimes missing in modern rock. The piano reappears, adding a lighter touch to proceedings.
Mayfly (No Right Answers) is a little softer, pushing the piano to the forefront of the tune. The rest of the band do appear after a while, but the piano is a lot more prominent, playing nicely in the background. The vocals are also a lot more audible, rising up over the music to a gorgeous crescendo on the chorus. The breakdown towards the end is even more beautiful to behold.
No Sense To End changes things up even more – whilst its still poppy in parts, the choice of percussion adds a special something to the track. The strings return here, adding a luscious, textural sound to the music, working surprisingly well with the rest of the music. Scatterchild is certainly an artist full of surprises!
Tough Love is the last song on the EP, having more of a chamber pop sound at times. It opens with just the piano, following a melancholic note sequence. The vocals harmonise around the piano, sounding haunting at times. The rest of the instrumentation kicks in after a while, turning it more into a rock song. This track truly makes for a fantastic closer to this unique EP.
Scatterchild is doing something different in the world of pop/rock, which is something to be lauded. The Whispers We Leave won’t be for everyone, but those that take a chance should find something to love here.
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