We really don't cover singles here. I've premiered a few, and their accompanying videos, but with the glut of album reviews we tackle, it's rare that we have the time for a single. That said, the new two-track release from Scotland's Constant Follower feels like that kind of rare, special single.
Ahead of their upcoming March 2021 album on Shimmy-Disc / Joyful Noise, Constant Follower charm here with the dream-like "I Can't Wake You", a ruminative bit of folk-rock. Comparisons to Mojave 3 might spring to mind but the players here -- Stephen McAll, along with guitarist Andrew Pankhurst, Amy Campbell on backing vocals and synth, and Kathleen Stosch on backing vocals, synth, and bass -- make this compelling even as it seeps into the soul. The flip "Altona" seemed just as magical to me, especially as it's closer to the sort of folk-influenced dream-pop I grew up on. The band's upcoming record will be produced by Kramer (Bongwater), and that is significant, especially when one thinks of his work on early Damon & Naomi releases.
"I Can't Wake You" / "Altona" is out now.
More details on Constant Follower on their official Facebook page.
[Photo: David Newitt]