Who would ever say that the name of a pub would inspire the name of a band? Well, Arbor Light is a pub in Birmingham where Alex, Matt, Greg and James met about three years ago; in that precise moment they decided to become the band we have the pleasure to know today. And we have to bless the beers they drunk that day if now we can enjoy their music! Hatherton Lake is a lake located in the same area and, adding these elements together, the outcome is a wonderful debut album from a great new band.
I’m talking about the instrumental four piece band Arbor Lights and its debut album Hatherton Lake after the self-released single ‘On A Sea’ in 2011 and a self-titled EP in 2012. Hatherton Lake revealed itself to me through a friend’s recommendation. We sometimes forget how helpful it is to just ask a friend what music we should pursue! It’s not a secret that I love post rock and it’s not a surprise that I’m so happy to be here writing about this album. It’s a beautiful summer day and the Arbor Light’s music fills my home. The notes resonate from one room to another one and they work perfectly as a beautiful soundtrack for a beautiful day.
The journey offered by Greg, Alex, Matt and James lasts about 40 minutes spread over 5 tracks that flow into one another. The album opens up with ‘The Silent City’ that maybe is inspired by the area that worked also as a muse for the band and album names. The typical reverberating guitars of post rock songs open this beautiful track that soon develop in an absolutely amazing melody and a pursuing beat. It's a wonderful way to start the album.
A series of rather joyous crescendos are at the centre of the stage of the following track. ‘Interstellar’ is full of enjoyable soundscapes. It’s a dynamic song with builds up and drops like in a mountain climb with a breathtaking view once you reach the top.
‘Damascus’ stands at the centre of the album and, with its about 13 minutes, is the longest track. Unlike other post rock albums 4 of the 5 tracks of Hatherton Lake last less than 10 minutes – a good thing for me - that is a sort of standard minimum for this kind of songs. ‘Damascus’ has an atmospheric intro that slowly builds up into a powerhouse track. The layered guitar work is amazing. I really love it, it’s my favourite song from the album together with ‘The Silent City’. Towards the end I had the impression to be already in the following track. The rhythm changes and gently flows into ‘Silhouettes’ that is that type of relaxing ambient and instrumental track that allows your mind to go away, far away in a perfect harmony with guitars roars and drums.
The album closes with the 8 minute long ‘The Mayor & The Diver’ where beautifully clean guitars set the stage for an epic crescendo and drums remain patient until finally they explode in cymbal crashing glory.
Hatherton Lake is an album that needs to be experienced from start to finish. As a unified work, the album can be appreciated for how well it all comes together as one unique package. There’s no fortuity: each moment is intentional within the grand scheme.
This is a really good season for music lovers and Hatherton Lake is a gem that shines brightest in the summer sun.
