The Velveteers - A Million Knives

The Velveteers deliver infectious alt-pop with their latest release, 'A Million Knives'. Balancing distorted rock with melodic shoegaze, they craft a distinctive and varied sound.

The band features an unconventional set-up: lead guitarist/vocalist Demi Demitro and two drummers (Baby Pottersmith and Jonny Fig) sharing an adjoined kit. 'Go Fly Away' adds The Black Keys drummer Patrick Carney to the mix. What could sound chaotic emerges layered and cohesive. The track marks the first time The Black Keys have produced music together for another artist. The album bristles with earworms, with 'Suck The Cherry' and 'On And On' delivering swaggering, distorted noise. The latter track confronts industry misogyny and draws influence from pop artists like Lady Gaga as much as rock'n'roll.

Title-track 'A Million Knives' emerges from its chrysalis at the album's midpoint, Demitro's voice floating like a dream just beyond reach. It opens the gates for a softer, indie-centred sound in the following tracks. 'Up Here' reveals their gentler side with a haunting feel. The Velveteers' second album glows with a heavy outline of darkness. They display confidence yet expose vulnerability, creating music that's both tender and tough.