Nearly 4 minutes showcasing various individual talents.
‘Carousel‘ is the newest track from Leaving Bordeaux, an indie and alternative 4-piece band from Glasgow. This is the first release since their 2022 single ‘On Fire‘. It is also the second single since the release of the band’s 2021 EP “Odyssey“. With musical influences such as Two Door Cinema Club, Blossoms, the 1975, and The Killers, it is clear to see where the band’s unique identity and sound stem from. Their sound is also similar to that of The Clause, but Leaving Bordeaux take these influences and slight similarities and make their own distinct sound.
“On the carousel, we’ll be faster than before” is the lyric that begins the song. It is sung by Jamie McAulay who also plays rhythm guitar for the band. His clear vocals are at the forefront of the guitar heavy track. Every individual instrument can be heard and with every listen, each of the band’s individual talents can be made out more clearly. A guitar riff by Darren Houston is played throughout the song to accompany the vocals from McAulay. This is also met with the rhythmic drumming from Louis Kane, and the subtle but effective bass playing from Caleb Blackwood. While there is a lot going on musically, this isn’t overwhelming and no instrument seems to undermine or overpower any others.
There are different lyrics throughout the track that seem to stand out to me. “We’re speeding in the wrong direction” follows the initial lyric that begins the track. There is also the lyric “chasing a remedy” later in the track. These are expertly written in a way that keeps the interpretation of the words open. This helps the song resonate with more people because the lyrics can mean whatever the listener wants them to mean.
The addicting and very appealing melody also makes the track effortlessly easy to listen to. This also makes it difficult not to hit repeat. The upbeat and catchy tempo is perfect for all year round enjoyment, but it has been released at the perfect time for summer listening. It sounds like a song that would be incredibly well received in a live setting, especially in a local Glasgow crowd. I can definitely see an audience singing along with McAulay and dancing along with this bright and positive track.
You can catch Leaving Bordeaux playing ‘Carousel‘ as well as their other amazing tunes this summer. They will be taking to the stage of the venue, Audio, in their hometown of Glasgow on Friday August 11th. The link to details for this show can be found below, they’re not a band you want to miss.
‘Carousel‘ provides nearly 4 minutes of exemplary material that showcases the individual talents from McAulay, Blackwood, Houston, and Kane. Together, they create a band that produces music catering for an audience with differing musical preferences and tastes. It is an amazing track and I have really enjoyed listening to it so far. I will definitely have this on repeat.