Substandard: Global Research Systems
By Emma Philpott
An understated release from Failsafe Records in Christchurch. Understated, because its release should be heralded from roof-tops. Substandard could be the next in a lineage of moody instrumental 'sonic' rock that includes the likes of Subliminals, HDU and Bailterspace - even SJD comes to mind. But instead of rehashing their forebears, Danny Baré (guitar) Andrew Robins (drums) and Gareth Heta (bass) have come up with something fresh in their compositions. There's a warmth and almost a sense of jubilation in their melodies that isn't easy to convey without vocals, and chaos that is reigned in before it gets tedious. Listening to 'Global Research Systems' is like pausing time and it's always nice when you get that in music. With two EPs under their belt already, its surprising that Substandard aren't in the radar of more people - perhaps it's the understated cover art - or that they haven't made much noise out of their hometown. Produced by and recorded at Avalanche studios and produced by Failsafes' own Rob Mayes with Danny Baré. Search out this one for your collection
Related Information
