The Dunedin based band formed in early 2009 and self recorded and released their debut EP ‘Slasher’ the same year. Their kiwi sound has elements of British indie rock like the Kaiser Chiefs and is also similar to American band the Killers (without the nerd factor). Being comparable to such prominent bands is no mean feat and Black Boy Peaches are musically subtle about their obvious talents. They allow every instrument expressive room to move; the confidence this requires can often take years to achieve.
Vocalist Hamish Mepham really stands out with his natural and likable style similar to John Mayer; and I mean that in the best possible way. Potentially Hamish demonstrates the range of Jeff Buckley and at times a subtle punk rock edge sneaks in, which gives the band their X factor. Along with his brother Tom Mepham on lead guitar and keys, the group round out their sound with Jackson Rodeka on drums and Adam Murray on bass. Together they display clever and engaging musicianship that provides fantastic cohesiveness to all eleven tracks. The song Hesitation is the stand out, which is anything but hesitant in its delivery. With fast paced drums interspersed with synthesizers and wonderful guitar riffs, it’s sure to be a crowd pleaser.
Black Boy Peaches retain an obvious youthful joy in their music, while delivering a comprehensive and professional product. ‘Company Feel Good’ can best be described as one hell of an excellent album. Nicely original while broadening the tried and true, it’s a high energy and sometimes-epic release. Check it out for yourself at any good music store nearby.
Black Boy Peaches were formed in Dunedin at the beginning of 2009. Their sound is created by high energy vocals with heavy synth melodies and soaring lead guitar licks. Combining this with an up-tempo, four-on-the-floor style drums and driving bass guitar rhythms ensures a high-energy sound and performance.
Fresh from recording their seven track EP titled Slasher, a full album is already in the pipeline for 2010. This is only the beginning for the band, and their desire to push the boundaries on all fronts is attracting a steadily increasing following around the South Island.