SKiNfLOWERS, two brothers known only as g-man (vocals/guitar) and rich:t (bass/keyboard) based in Gloucestershire, UK, are a breath of fresh air. Having been making music for a few years now, this release comprises three new tracks and three tracks from an earlier demo; the difference in quality is tangible, but all the tracks have an interesting edge to them--whether it's the orchestration on the title track (provided by non-band member lee h, who also mastered the CD) or the haunting arpeggios on the second track, "waiting and keeping promises."
The music is certainly indie rock, but also has an air of individuality. The listener might guess that they have a diverse range of influences, that includes artists from both the rock and rock-dance hybrid genres. The independence is also apparent, and the band could probably do with smoothing the songs out just a little, if they could do that without rounding off the edges.
Lyrically SKiNfLOWERS wear their Christian roots somewhere on the surface of their clothing. "man of blood" has allusions to Christ within its lyrics but these are fittingly oblique without being hidden. The vocal delivery matches this obliqueness, it is sometimes slightly thin, but there are also some tight harmonies which, while not outstanding do help to fill things out.
An interesting release and probably a band worth seeking out if they're in your neighbourhood, but for those further afield it may be worth waiting for the full length album due early next year.
