CULTCHA Clash Outer National - Music Review:

Caulbearers - Burst Through The Borders

By Jon "Selecta J-Cut" Soldanels

Caulbearers - Burst Through The Borders (2021 Single Cell Recordings)

This is the latest digital release by the Manchester-based band, Caulbearers.

https://caulbearers.com/

Collage by James Stirzaker

Caulbearers · Burst Through The Borders (Full Version)

The title track, "Burst Through The Borders," is an inspirational message of universal love engulfing all matter in existence, set to a down-tempo groove drawing on elements of soul, jazz, dub and indie rock. The subtle strings and guitar give the tune a relaxed vibe, overall, and vocalist, Damian Mahoney's lyrics are purely on a positive tip. I would recommend this to fans of Paul Weller, A Certain Ratio or Massive Attack as well as those into alternative music with a touch of hip-hop influence. Not a bad first impression, for me. If a vinyl single were to be pressed, I'd buy it. For now, digitally will have to suffice.

Available from Bandcamp https://caulbearers.bandcamp.com/album/burst-through-the-borders-single

And from iTunes https://music.apple.com/us/album/burst-through-the-borders-single/1559859006

Damian Mahoney (photo by Jan Schoof)

Caulbearers · Solid Supposed (Featuring Ruth Blake)

Damian Mahoney & Ruth Blake (photo by Jan Schoof)

The 'B' side track, "Solid Supposed" is on a different vibe and an even more exciting one, to me. Guest and regular collaborator, Ruth Blake's vocals are an ethereal addition to the big beats and horns, which are reminiscent of some of the vintage 2-Tone Records arrangements. A Portishead influence is apparent on this one, as well.

Check out the video, below.

The band are part of Manchester, U.K.'s Music As Medicine family, who curate community music and art performances. They are also founders of the Single Cell Recordings collective and members of the live improv trio, The Order Of Love. Mahoney and his group have established themselves at home, and with this kind of originality and sound precision, will undoubtedly gain fans worldwide.

The full album is expected to be out this year, if these tunes are any indication, then it should be well worth checking out.

(Thanks to Shauna @ Shameless Promotion for sending this to me.)