Corduroy.'s The Usual starts with such a smooth sound. A simple leisurely progression chords on the keys, followed by a funky riffage on the guitar that jumps and skips around the track like an excitable puppy out for a walk with its owner. Simon Kenrick’s keys remain throughout the entirety of the track; uncomplicated, unchanging, but it serves the function of ensuring the track remains grounded. It is that consistency that allows the other members of the band more freedom with their parts.
Will Cole and Riley “Barry Barrett work together so well creating a smooth groove and jazz that is audibly exciting to focus on, but still doesn’t take the focus away from the vocals.
Vocalist Rosie Spearing has sultriness to her melody, while also portraying a sense of strength and determination. Almost on the verge of lounge music, Spearing has a magic to her storytelling; with a clear voice, she relates the story of the breaking off of a stagnant relationship. Explaining the final straw to break the camel’s back, the justification, and the results, all in four and a half minutes, Spearing’s use of syllabic phrasing creates a beautiful flow that you can’t help but follow.
Despite the lyrical content being about the ending of a relationship, there is no anger or negativity in the song. The guitar has that twang and light-treble sound that is eponymous with the 80’s (or more recently in Paramore’s latest Hard Times album), and it creates a light-hearted atmosphere that conveys the apathy that is felt in the relationship that long “hasn’t been mutual”, or more so the celebration of the freedom in breaking free.
There’s nothing not to like from The Usual. The fact that this is the debut single from five-piece Corduroy, is indicative that there will be great things to come. There is an innate professionalism that is given off by the production of the track, and a vocal confidence that makes you want to listen to more.
Corduroy. is a six piece Wellington band established in 2017. Our music is an energetic blend of retro and contemporary sounds which translate well into a vibrant and engaging live show. Our sound is a playful pairing of indie-pop, disco, and alternative rock that is guaranteed to get you moving, grooving, and maneuvering!