Nearing the end of the year we’re getting into sentimental times. Whether you celebrate Christmas, Chanukah, Kwanzaa, or nothing at all, the promise of a new year and constant bombardment of holiday shows and advertisements, you can’t help but feel as though it’s some sort of reflective time of year. Though our artist this week is in no way hocking a holiday album, their music often offers the type of lyrics that make you think about life as a whole, making you look back on your own. Bringing the noise as your artist of the week is Stornoway.
Formed in Oxford by attendees of the university, Stornoway consists of Brian Briggs, Jon Ouin, Oli Steadman, and Rob Steadman (Oli’s brother). Including a Russian translator and an ornithologist, Stornoway has the diversity and the genuine curiosity to attract the intelligentsia, but the honesty and truthfulness that makes open to those not looking for the snobbish side of music (you know who you are). Their band’s name comes from the name of a Scottish town, but prior to the formation of the band, none of the members had ever traveled there.
The band formed in 2006 and in the same year released their self-titled demo which received a good amount of support, showing Stornoway’s strength in their ability to captivate listeners. Despite not having an EP until 2009, Stornoway managed to build a strong following throughout the year with great songs like “I Saw You Blink” and “Watching Birds,” which showcase the bands bouncier side, or “Fuel Up” which shows the more sentimental side of the band. Whichever you’re more a fan of, Stornoway demonstrates their talent in being able to write solid songs for whatever topic they can think of (including a song dedicated to the highlighting of edible and endangered fish).
When I first heard Stornoway’s music I was listening to the radio on my way back from the doctor’s office. Though the office is only a short distance from where I reside, I made sure that I waited until the set of songs was over so that I could find out who it was I was listening to. Several songs later, waiting in my driveway I got my reward and immediately went online to listen to some more. I was struck by the way their song “Fuel Up” resonated with me. Stornoway has the relatable aspects that make them accessible by most people who have ever stepped outside of their homes. Whether they’re talking about rolling down hills in see-through spheres or the attempt to figure out life, you can bet that Stornoway has a song for you.
Stornoway’s full-length debut album, Beachcomber’s Windowsill, was released in May of last year. The band have been steadily growing in their fan base and we here at Enter the Shell can only hope their popularity continues in such trends. The band is currently in the studio recording their second full-length album set to release sometime next year. While you’re waiting for that to come out, as always, get your fix below. Enjoy!