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Paper Prisms

Since the release of their Yellow Streak EP and months of moulding and refining their own progressive sound, Simmer have emerged with their snowflake of an album, Paper Prisms. The band are reluctant to be pigeonholed into a genre, and rightly so. Although frequently described as ambient punk, the Cheshire trio now transcend this label through poetic guitar riffs and downplayed vocals.

The album is truly a product of its location, as influences from the Manchester’s music scene prevail at every turn. The meandering bass lines can be likened to those of The Stone Roses, while the raw vocals are a nod to their underground influences. This contrasts with the narratives about their remote hometown, Winsford, which run through the album. Their lyrics are semantically entwined with images of nature and emotion, whose marriage is conveyed equally by the verses and harmonies.

One of the most fascinating aspects of the album is how its understated vocals become one with melody. Julius Schiazza’s voice is more of a fourth instrument than a lyrical device. This harmonious blend of the vocal and the instrumental create a flowing sound that you can’t help but sway to, but the energetic drum beat keeps Simmer firmly grounded in the alternative rock scene.

The album is truly poetic and a mature leap from Simmer’s acclaimed earlier releases. With their first ever run of UK tour dates beginning in February, the band will be thrust into the limelight.