Formed in Liverpool in late 2017, Seatbelts comprises of James Madden, Ryan Murphy, Abigail Woods, and Alex Quinn. At times reminiscent of Talking Heads, The Go-Betweens and Deerhunter, with the brooding energy of The Monochrome Set, the group deliver glorious, shining, bouncy pop songs, laden with melodic hooks and considered lyricism.
Sharing lead vocal duties, Madden and Murphy (formerly, Hooton Tennis Club), and Woods create their own distinctive worlds within the milieu of the whole. Their first release back in 2018 'Songs For Vonnegut EP' is dedicated to legendary writer Kurt Vonnegut, created with drum machines between Madden and Murphy’s bedrooms.
The EP introduces Seatbelts style of lyricism perfectly, with on nose commentary on polemical anxieties. Second EP 'Please Slow Down' released 2019, was recorded between bedrooms and Parr St Studios and brought a new lively feel to the band. Lush, mellotron driven ’Content Crush' and the upbeat, avant-pop 'Spanish Songs’ were
released as singles and quickly became live show favourites.
Since the release of their third EP, ‘Edwyn’, in collaboration with Scottish musician Edwyn Collins (Orange Juice), Seatbelts have taken up residence in the legendary Parr Street Studios (Liverpool) to create their latest effort, ‘Welcome Simplicity’ released April, 2021.
First single ‘Citylines’ opens the EP with a splash of shimmering guitars and euphoric keyboard drones, with driving energy and vocals reminiscent of early Arcade Fire. Second single, ‘Keep Your Mind On The Feeling’ is an upbeat mantra for the happy-silly-fun times.
Their fourth EP perfectly lurches between past EP moods and lyrical topics, refining their sound and songwriting to create a perfect balance between classic pop and eccentric pop songs.
Spending the past few years honing their live show, recording frequently and expanding their line-up to six members to include brass, Seatbelts are set tour their eccentric pop songs around the UK in November. It’s sure to be a must see, both visually and sonically.
Not to be missed!
