Galchen: Instrumental Stimulation

Galchen have spent the last seven years developing their music and have had a luxury - which most bands would kill for - in owning and running their own recording studios. Fourth Street studios was set up in Glasgow's Southside three years ago and has afforded them the time they have needed to get their music just how they want it.

"We have recorded each tune countless times, as we were in no rush to get them out there. We wanted to make sure the sound was right first," explains Iain, the band's synth and samples wizard. The other astonishing thing about their development, which mirrors their production approach, is the fact that they aren't shouting from the rooftops about themselves. In a world of MySpace promotion, they seem to have opted out of canvassing the net for potential fans. They simply rely on word of mouth and their live performance to gain a following. It is indeed refreshing to see a small, local band taking such an organic and laid-back approach to becoming successful.

One thing is for certain, and that is that the band definitely deserve a chance at the big time. With the successes of other Scottish instrumental acts such as Mogwai and more recently Explosions in the Sky, it would be a shame to lump them into the same category: "One of the big struggles for us over the years has been trying to get across to people that we are not Mogwai!" urges Iain. Just listening to the first few tracks off their new EP gets this point across with verve.

The EP was launched in May and is now on sale in Monorail and Avalanche, signifying that the band is now ready to take their talent to market. They also felt compelled to release something given the overwhelming demand from fans. Apart from being self produced, the other wonderful thing about this EP is that almost all of it was recorded live. "You need the energy of a live performance," responds Gail, when asked why they decided to take this approach. The EP sounds fantastic, with each track taking you further and further into an exciting journey.

Bizarrely, they decided not to name any of the tracks on this EP: "It's more of a demonstration of what we can do and of the sound we are trying to create" adds Iain. This aside, you will not find a bad song on the CD. The EP is more than worthy acquisition, but there's no comparison to seeing them live.

Their launch night, at their own studios, was a fantastic party in its own right, topped off with an outstanding live performance from the band, showcasing their music to a mesmerised audience. In the absence of vocals, the crowd is given a real treat in the form of top-drawer visuals, courtesy of Gail. At the height of the performance the band are as one, projecting a profound musical maturity and unity. There are no egos and no arrogant solos, just spectacular music and visuals. Peter, the drummer, manages to pull off some fantastic beats with a subtle jazz influence, while Gal provides the catchy basslines. Chenzo on guitar injects raw energy and the occasional delicate riff, then Iain tops the whole thing off with some haunting work on the synth, coupled with beautifully placed samples. Together they create an experience you would expect to find from a band on the bigger stages, with years of experience behind them.

They have not been without their fair share of quality gigs, with support slots for Belle & Sebastian, !!! (chk chk chk) and Schneider TM. They played Tryptich last year, and this year they will be headlining Glasgow's Wee Chill festival, with other gigs lined up for this summer. If you get the chance, go and see them - it certainly ain't Mogwai.