Maps are another band that have taken me by surprise here in 2007. With a sound that falls somewhere between Air and Boards Of Canada for me this band from the UK. The band also pulls some influence from early shoegaze acts like Ride. Then, they took that sound and influence and teamed up with some great producers like Ken Thomas, who has worked with Sigur Ros, and Valgeir Sigurdsson, who has worked with the likes of Bjork to come up with, We Can Create.
Maps is the brainchild of James Chapman, who does almost everything alone outside of touring. The album has been available overseas for awhile now, but just saw its official US release last month from Mute Records. So far, this is easily my favorite “atmospheric” album of the year at this point and I highly recommend you pick it up.
The band are also on tour right now supporting Blonde Redhead here in the states, a few dates to pass along below…..
Wed 09/26/07 Los Angeles, CA Spaceland
Fri 09/28/07 New York, NY Mercury Lounge
Sat 09/29/07 Brooklyn, NY Luna Lounge
Enjoy one of my favorite songs from the album, “Elouise”……..
Also check out a live video from the band after the jump…..
Technorati Tags: Sigur Ros, Maps, Mute Records, Blonde Redhead
