Independent Falkirk based Artesan have this month released what is their fifth single – Singin at the Train. The five piece bring a conglomeration of indie rock, grunge and psychedelia with the newest release crossing borders into synth territory.
Artesan are an experienced group of musicians of different generations which includes Singer Ronnie and lead guitarist Bryce Bissett who are father and son. With them are Dickson Telfer (bass), Will Treeby (guitar) who Ronnie has been collaborating with musically over two decades. In 2018 the band seen drummer Stuart Blackwood join them and in 2020 Artesan released their first official single Feel Like Myself Again. Since then, the Falkirk band have been working tirelessly to record and promote their new music. They have played their own shows across the Central Belt last year which included Glasgow’s 13th Note and even sharing a festival line up with headliners The Charlatans when they performed at Vibration Festival.
New single Singin at the Train kicks off with an unexpected electro synth opening. Not what I was anticipating at all and while it was engaging, it does not reflect the direction the song ultimately takes. A exceptionally gallus move of a band who are still trying to establish their sound however, it works. The synth quickly transcends to a soft acoustic intro and if you have got this far then it’s worth the confusion. Soon enough the track kicks in full force with hard rock fueled guitar riffs and a hearty grunge inspired vocal delivery from Russell somewhat reminiscent of Soundgarden’s late Chris Cornell. It’s a really strong riff and one which the band explain has been over 15 years in the making. Derived from a riff created back in 2008, Artesan revived it for their ‘new’ single.
Having now listened to Artesan’s singles collection so far, I have a better understanding of the band’s sound and style which in itself is actually quite unique. They combine their wide array of influences and personal abilities to produce music which doesn’t quite fit into any particular box. Once in full swing Singin at the Train is a real ear wormer, particularly that catchy melodic riff. The single highlights the band’s creativity and might be their most ambitious yet.
Anne Kelly