Cage Park – Palma Violets

Young Indie Rockers Cage Park from Birmingham release a four track EP consisting of their first three singles and an extra track.

The band is entirely made up of teenagers, but show competency and musicianship beyond their years. Catchy indie guitar band with dual vocalists they create a colourful and appealing sound.

Depending on who is singing at the time, Arthur Belben reminds me of The Kooks’ fun, carefree indie-pop. This is an excellent foil to when Edie Mist sings who brings a slightly darker and more serious tone more like Bristol Indie Rockers Soeur. Whether they came up with this formula by a determined focus or just good luck – who cares? It works.

Guitarist Leo White sounds impressive, his playing is varied and draws influences from all over the shop and did I mention he is only Sixteen!

Their sound is inventive and highly contagious; guaranteed to get a crowd smiling and dancing. Looking at each track closely, they are clearly talented musicians. Title track ‘Parma Violets’ perfectly showcases the dual vocalists and in the background drummer Reuben Saunders shows a deft touch and a frenzied flourish when required.

‘Close But Not Enough’ is more serious sounding but hits you from all directions and more than holds its own with the other songs on the EP. ‘Kitchen Floor’ is anthemic with various elements working superbly in unison to create a perfect indie-pop standard.  ‘OK’ is my personal favourite and my nomination for the best track on the record. Its short and sweet but is equally groovy and punchy with a great chorus.

The possibilities for this band has no bounds. I can easily see this lot as festival favourites in the future. Once festivals return to being a thing that is.

The more I listen to this EP, the more I like it, and the more I want to see them play live. If I could give this band one piece of advice, it would be this: do not be in a rush to grow up. You sound great the way you are, do not change what you have because it is priceless.

Darren Kelly