Step aside, step aside, and make room for the best new London band SOIWT has heard in yonks. Probably named after the Kinks lead singer who they sound nothing like, Ray Dar Vees seem to mix stirring, lighters-in-the-air rock anthems (debut single Heart Attack) with burnished softies better suited to subdued Sunday nights (White Gold Tears). Or, in the case of It’s A Feeling I Get, something betwixt the two. The lyrics are pleasantly introspective, and the guitars and drums played with gusto, but I most like singer Fred Murray’s earthy, earnest tones: he’s all heart, and it’s fabulous to hear.
With renowned producer Craig Silvey on board, and a contract with the Pure Groove-linked Seven Sevens label, the future looks mighty promising for this threesome. Indeed, Heart Attack is so good, it could yet be a song of the summer if Xfm and Absolute really push it - although, secretly, selfishly, I kinda hope that doesn’t happen…