More about: Deep Tan

deep tan are without a doubt one of the coolest bands emerging from the oh-so-prevalent UK, post-punk scene. Their debut EP creeping speedwells is a massive statement of intent from the London trio. 

The opener, ‘do you ascend’ is a brilliantly spooky number; the band mix a variety of influences - Joy Division style, gloomy yet rhythmic bass collaborates with math-rock guitar and bombastic, thunderous drumming. Quite the sound for a young band, but deep tan pull the whole thing off with unshakable cool. 

‘hollow scene’ is the next track, this builds on the foundations set by the opener and you can really feel deep tan coming into their stride. It’s a slow burner of a cut and the lo-fi and gloomy feeling of the track is superb: a continuous rhythm section mixed with awkward, off beat synth and guitar parts lends credence to the comparisons with Joy Division and Wafah’s soft and charming voice adds real dimension to the cut. 

The penultimate track is ‘camelot’, a track that has a fantastic, hands in the air feeling to it - a number that will surely be a highlight of their live sets. This cut is a prime example of what deep tan are so good at - they aren’t an in your face, shouty, punky group: the real skill is in how they create minimalistic tracks, almost using silence and time signatures as an instrument itself. Creating an EP in this style is a challenge and it can often feel unpolished, or even unfinished, but deep tan avoid these pitfalls with aplomb, it’s a totally intriguing listen.

creeping speedwells concludes with ‘deepfake’ as softly spoken French is delivered over their unique brand of awkward, mathy rock. Superbly creepy and gothic in sound, this whole EP encapsulates the mood of early Joy Division with the adroit instrumental composure of a band like black midi. 

My only criticism of the EP is that there isn't more of it - four wonderful tracks is great and I can’t wait to see what they come up with next. deep tan are a young band, but they’re without a doubt one to watch for the future.

creeping speedwells arrives 4 June via Practise Music.

More about: Deep Tan