Inter-continental psychedelic indie-rock collective Arktik Lake recently released their new EP, Shimmer, via TimeZone Records.
Arktik Lake explains, “Our EP ‘Shimmer’ draws on and collects experiences from our favorite musical styles and influences, with a modern freshness for added appeal. Sparkling melodies with soaring guitars and vocals set against a driving rhythm section, telling stories with cinematographic splendor.”
The collective is made up of Marty Willson-Piper (lead guitar, vocals, acoustic and 12-string guitars), Nigel Macara (drums, percussion), Tony Rumble (guitars), DC (bass), and Olivia Willson-Piper (backing vocals).
While living in vastly different locations, Marty and Olivia in Portugal, and Nigel and DC in Sydney, Australia, Arktik Lake still manages to turn out lush sonic confections highlighted by Marty’s talent on his Rickenbacker.
Embracing four tracks, Shimmer begins with the title track, opening on jangly guitars riding a tight, finessed rhythm. Marty’s evocative, easy-to-listen-to voice imbues the lyrics with luscious tones, simultaneously quixotic and wistful. A crying guitar solo infuses the tune with luminous colors.
“Promises We Made” travels on darker coloration from the rumbling bassline as gleaming guitars flow overhead, like misty sprinkles. The feel and flow of the song, alluring and seducing, showcases the deeper timbres of Marty’s voice and the dazzling harmonies of Olivia.
“Hombre” features heavy rounded percussion and oozing guitars and then segues into a surf-pop-flavored tune with hints of Spaghetti Western overtones. A glistening guitar solo injects the tune with sizzling notes.
“Misty Shore” rides a swirling intro and then flows into a dream-pop melody tinged with alt-rock and alt-country savors. Iridescent guitars infuse the harmonics with sumptuous flecks of sparkling tones as velvety vocals spin out overhead.
With Shimmer, Arktik Lake offers spellbinding textures of jangly guitars, captivating rhythms, and rich, upmarket vocals.
