Cigale Post New Song “Steeplechase”
Netherlands-based psychedelic newcomers Cigale continue to tease the prospect of their upcoming self-titled debut — reportedly due out sometime this or next month — by streaming the track “Steeplechase” via YouTube. “Steeplechase” is the second slice of audio to come from the album, following behind the haunting “Harvest Begun” (posted here), and it unfolds in a somewhat similar vein in establishing a serene melodicism that meets later on with shades of heavier psych. Once more the guitar tone of Rutger Smeets — one of two former members of Sungrazer in Cigale, along with drummer Hans Mulders — is recognizable in an emergent jam in the second half, but is ultimately only one factor distinguishing the band’s sound from the bulk of psychedelic rock. “Steeplechase” is driven all the more by its underlying rhythmic fluidity and vocals.
Like “Harvest Begun,” however, “Steeplechase” presents a decidedly memorable hook in subtle and understated fashion. While there’s heft to it ultimately, or at least for a time when the guitar and bass come forward in the second-half jam, it shows again that Cigale are comfortable being quiet, the melody of guitar and voice smoothly flowing across its five-minute span. Unpretentious and engaging, its layers prove more intricate with repeat listens, and it builds gracefully toward that instrumental exploration, Mulders signaling the change, but at no point is overblown or more weighted than the song warrants. The prevailing spirit remains psychedelic, warm and peaceful, evocative of sunshine and just a bit wistful.
Cigale played their first live show this past October, but will take part in Desertfest Berlin 2015 at the end of next month, playing alongside such heavyweights as Orange Goblin, Ufomammut, Toner Low, Brant Bjork, Lo-Pan and others. There are some other more psychedlic bands on that bill as well — My Sleeping Karma, Moaning Cities, etc. — so either way, Cigale should be in good company and turn more than a few heads in their direction. Hopefully by that time the album will also be out and will have made an impression of its own. Until then, here’s “Steeplechase,” compliments of the band.
Enjoy:
