The Carpels

The Carpels

The Carpels are a group from the Midlands in England. They develop a sound that combines punk and electronic elements, with clear links to Talking Heads, LCD Soundsystem, Late of the Pier and The Fall. Their music is described through baritone melodies, synth-led textures and a dubstep influence, with a strong emphasis on attention-grabbing vocals and dancefloor energy.

Background

The band is made up of Michael Darby on guitar and vocals, Dylan Williams on lead vocals and synth, Tom Minchin on guitar, Ewan Wallace on bass, and Jacob McQue on drums. They are described as part of a wider Midlands music movement and also support other unsigned acts from the West Midlands through a live event called “The Carpels And Friends”, held at mac in Birmingham.

Recordings and industry support

The Carpels are first taken up by Charlatans drummer Jon Brookes, who signs them to his EMI-distributed label, One Beat Records. They record with producer Jim Spencer, whose credits include New Order, The Cribs, Doves and Shaun Ryder. Their early releases receive strong radio support, including play from Rob da Bank on BBC Radio 1, mention from Mark Radcliffe on BBC 6Music, and a BBC Introducing WM live session.

Releases and live profile

Their debut release, Sand, is described by Q magazine’s Niall Doherty as an attention-grabbing introduction. Their second single, Handshakes, launches at London’s This Feeling Club, where they are photographed by Roger Sargent. They are then invited back to play there later and are also asked to appear again at This Feeling’s Tips for 2012 event. A later single, Bears, is part of their continuing run of releases.

Critical reception

The Carpels receive praise from a number of broadcasters and writers, including Rob da Bank, Jim Gellatly of BBC Scotland and Amazing Radio, and Alex Baker of Kerrang Radio. Their reputation centres on a quirky, modern pop approach that blends synths, guitars and rhythmic drive.