These New Puritans: Polarizing, Doubling, Slashing.

09/02/2010 by admin.

It’s no secret that the Southend band These New Puritans led by the elusive Jack Barnett eschew from pigeonholing when it comes to presenting their overall sound. As heard from their debut album “Beat Pyramid“, their mission is to build their own inner world with regards to seemingly disparate influences, (from the prolific underground rap producer J Dilla. to the atmospheric layering of Steve Reich and sombreness of Robert Wyatt’s brass). Continuous progression seems natural and of reason to the quartet.



Their sophomore album ironically named “Hidden” stands as a testament to slashing their way through pre 21sth century habits of categorising music and sounds…literally. Consequently, it definitely makes sense to not listen to this album in relation to anyone as if they have any musical peers.



These New Puritans - “We Want War” - Directed by Daniel Askill





Extensive precise methods of foley recording along with the employment of producer and mixer (Graham Sutton and Dave Cooley, respectively), Japanese Taiko drums, plus a brass and woodwind section, a children’s choir, prepared piano - combined with TNPS’ beat and sampling sensibilities. ‘Hidden’ truly sounds like TNPS may well be the true heir to the Wu-Tang Clan and Benjamin Britten. Truly remarkable and challenging.

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