by the sea: s/t

After a series of long sold out 45s and packed out, acclaimed live shows over the last 2 years, The Wirral's BY THE SEA finally release their keenly anticipated debut LP for November. Self titled and produced / mixed by close friend, former Coral guitarist Bill Ryder - Jones. An extraordinary full length, comprising 9 tunes; at times almost anthemic in their delivery, yet with each displaying a fragile epicness - a spacious, warm feel ensured by their intuitive production. Recalling moments from key era Stone Roses and The Go - Betweens, via a passing nod to 1 or 2 bands' from Liverpools' rich musical heritage. The bands' impressive songwriting pedigree has taken on something of a dreamlike feel of late, the newer songs here providing the album with the feel perhaps, of classic era 4AD output. Though it would be churlish to overlook the sense of freshness and feeling that the album fits perfectly right NOW. It's sense of melody and songwriting guile mark this out as a beautiful debut. Previous 45s (also on The GPS) have not only sold out in the blink of an eye, but have amassed a number of crucial supporters on the UK press, not least of all at 6music with both A and B sides attaining frequent airplay with the likes of Gideon Coe, Tom Ravenscroft and Andrew Weatherall. A fabulous debut from one of the best new bands in Britain - released on vinyl here at The GPS and on CD by Dell'Orso. Tastily packaged on gorgeous duo coloured, marbled vinyl and limited to 500.