Just when you thought ØXN’s status as Ireland’s finest supergroup of sorts was unfuckwithable, along come Human Lanterns. Let’s call it a draw.
This new project unites musicians we’d gladly use our last breath to champion. This lineup enters special territory altogether: the wizardly Paul Clynes (Hands Up Who Wants to Die, Shifting et al.), the ever-excellent Mary Keane (Cormorant Tree Oh), Thomas Parkes (The Jimmy Cake), Ivan Deasy of Crowhammer, and Will from the brilliantly – supremely – named Ireland.
Their debut track, ‘Eyes in My Pocket,’ is probably the closest music from these shores has yet come to summoning the snug, brain-sating ebb of Broadcast, or say Kranky greats Jessamine, but redreamt into something wholly their own. It’s early days but the result already makes for a sorcerous sound that simmers and swells in equal measure.
Recorded and mixed by the inimitable Jamie Hyland and filmed by Thom McDermott and Dave Knox at the Oscar Wilde House, it’s a spectral feat – and, so far as I can hear, a pure-cut reminder of a very certain sonic sweet spot that makes this whole “having ears and using them for pleasure” thing largely worthwhile. Across five minutes, synth, drums, bass, and Keane’s exquisite, slow-mo theremin, paired with her vocals, drift like something half-remembered through analog warmth.
Sure be to god, we are quite pleased to premiere the video today and to bring you the news that Human Lanterns will make their live debut at Bello Bar, Dublin, on March 14th. Rejoice – and attend.
