The Regulars are an indie rock band led by singer-songwriter Jeff Clarke. They’ve just come to my attention thanks to their new album, a collective effort with friends local and far afield. It’s called Opposite Eyes.

By Graeme Smith

Jeff discovered his love for music in his teens and quickly became a multi-instrumentalist thanks to the purchase of a drum set and guitar. His new album is a deep and introspective collection of seven tracks, giving us his unique viewpoint.

It all starts with the percussive intro of Wastin’ Away. It quickly builds to a looping acoustic guitar melody before passionate and expressive vocals come in. There’s a touch of experimentation in its arrangement that comes and goes before reaching a cacophonous climax. There’s a lot packed into its 93 seconds.

Accentuate the Positive is suitably upbeat but its bright instrumentals hide the darkness of its lyrics. Jangly indie rock is the order of the day. Keep It simmers with some unconventional jazz and funk before arriving at a compelling rhythm. The warmth of its production gives it a ’70s rock vibe. It’s a highlight.

Outlaw is a short, pacey country punk number. Burn This Bleeding Town brings with it isolated guitar and delicate vocal harmonies that build to a lively finish. High Hopes combines wailing electric guitar with a folksy undercurrent. Waitin’ Along closes the album with a bold indie rock finish. Its compulsive groove and layers of feedback make it a final highlight.

There’s so much that’s gone into Opposite Eyes that it feels much bigger than its seventeen minute run time. The Regulars are certainly bringing some fresh and different to the indie rock genre and I’m definitely into it. I hope you will be too.

Featuring on Opposite Eyes are Jia Sun Lee on vocals, Tim Perrotta and Bruno Barbosa on bass, Silvia Gil Larios on glockenspiel, and María Betania Hernández on violin. It was recorded and mixed by Jeff Clarke. You can give the album a listen below.