Formed in 2007 by Austrian/Bahraini songwriter Dana Zeera and London based guitarist Oliver Drake, formerly of The Veils, the Straylings offer the kind of tempestuous and intoxicating blend of rhythmic folk and psychedelia that Cliffie Swan excel at, adding a dark, cinematic edge all of their own.
Channelling vocalists such as Florence Welch and Laura Marling, drenched in heartbreak and a heady mix of intoxicants, there is something ominously spiritual about Dana Zeera’s strong, haunting, vocal, which acts as a perfect foil for Drake’s swirling yet intimate guitars. Her sultry vocals and Bahraini upbringing give the band an authentic Eastern shimmer and lead the listener on a voyage of discovery into the depths of the imagination. Wooooooo.
Already bearing the support of DJs Huw Stephens and Steve Lamacq following the release of their debut EP in June last year, the band spent the summer recording their debut album, due for release in January 2012. Mixed by John O’ Mahony (Metric, Alberta Close) and Sam Bell (Bloc Party, REM) and being put out by indie label Deadpan records, it promises to be a seductive and mystical affair.
These guys are one of the most exciting things to happen to British music in years and should definitely be given the exposure they truly deserve.
Words by Cosmo Scott
P.S. If you like their fan page, you get a free download of the track On It’s Way. Get in!
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