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Clean Bandit is a name you’re probably only just beginning to hear, but it’s certainly one that you’ll be hearing more often. They are going to become BIG.
Clean Bandit effortlessly marries deep house and classical music to produce something quite unique. Their name roughly translates from a Russian phrase for ‘complete bastard’ – they sound nice, right? But they do appear nice. They gave it their all when I saw them a few months back supporting Basement Jaxx’s recent UK tour and every interview I’ve seen them in band members Jack and Luke Patterson, Grace Chatto and Milan Neil Amin-Smith come across as genuinely nice people.
To date the band have released four singles from their upcoming debut album. A&E begins with a classical solo before warping into plucky house beats playing over snatchy vocals. It has a reggae feel, perfectly suited for a summer getaway but upon first listen you’ll be hooked by their fresh sound. A&E charter at number 100 in the UK. Rihanna, whilst not released as a single, instantly stood out when I caught them live and it’s one that should be given a listen. It’s simple yet infectious, featuring Noonie Bao with vocals reminiscent of Aluna Francis of AlunaGeorge fame.
Mozart’s House samples Mozart’s String Quartet No. 21 in D Major whilst giving it a house mix – essentially where the band got the songs name from. It’s fresh and invigorating and totally compelling, beginning with a spoken intro before jumpy vocals burst over the slightly electronic beat. It became their highest charting single to date, hitting number 17. Dust Clears sounds like two songs in one – sombre sing-spoken verses marred with contagious and child-like elements, all tied perfectly together with string solos. I’ve said it before, but this is a sound you’ll not have heard before but one which you’ll fall deep in love with afterwards.
Featuring Jess Glynne, Rather Be is the band’s new song, released this week. It’s easily their best song so far. Jess’ floaty vocals blend naturally with the impressive string and drum beats and I challenge every one you to try and not dance along to the track. It’s received rave reviews so far and they’re completely justified. Give it a download from iTunes… you WON’T regret it.
Clean Bandit’s debut album is released later this year and it’s sure to be full of new sounds, impressive features and completely infectious beats. If you want something different, give this band a chance.
As a side note, if you wanted to listen to something slightly less ‘out there’ give Intentions by Gorgon City a try. It features Clean Bandit but its more dance and house, whilst being slightly reminiscent of Disclosure’s recent efforts. It does still feature Clean Bandit’s trademark strings but it’s a song that appears more chart friendly and will appeal to those that don’t really like new or different sounds.
But either way this band is going to be big. So remember the name, because Clean Bandit aren’t going anywhere.
