The Grey Merchant - Avenue De Rennes Album Review

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The Grey Merchant - Avenue De Rennes
The Grey Merchant are a collective from Co. Cork. After releasing some singles here and there, the three piece shoegaze ensemble got to work on their debut album. "Avenue De Rennes" is the result of a year or more of recording in bedrooms, kitchens and bathrooms in Cork City.

The album opener "The Last Transmission" definitely sets the tone of the album with it's raw guitars, emotive vocals a la The National and tremendous drum beats that really lift the song.
"Convenience" is a rockier, grungier track which again features some formidable drumming. The latter half of the song would give Dead Skeletons a serious run for their money.
"Into The West" could almost be considered an uplifting meditation. Lie back, close your eyes, control your breathing, listen to this track and by the end you will emerge rejuvenated and ready to take on the day.
"A.L.P.H.A.B.E.T Soup" stands out as it's completely unlike anything else on the album. On first listen I didn't think much of it but it's definitely a grower. Also weirdly the second Irish band to write a song about Alphabet Soup after Bell X1. And people think we live on a diet of potatoes and Guinness!
"Spotless (The Protecting Veil)" was the single that garnered the most attention when released and rightly so. The song is utterly stunning and easily the best piece on the album. If you're not standing up shouting for a revolution by the end then you must be unmovable.
The album ends with "Never Give Up, Anything Is Possible" featuring an interesting religious speech sample coupled with beautiful and inspiring music.

"Avenue De Rennes" is a cracking debut debut album full of raw guitars, incredible drums, sublime vocals and a healthy dose of inspirational speech samples. The Grey Merchants are clearly ones to look out for in 2018 and hopefully more new music will be on the cards.


Listen to "Avenue De Rennes" on Spotify and Bandcamp:
Spotify
Bandcamp


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