Helicon – Helicon
Helicon's long-awaited self-titled debut LP very much meets expectations
East Kilbride's Helicon have been buzzing around for more than half a decade now, and only now are they releasing their debut album. Describing themselves as "neo-psychedelic ninjas with smatterings of sentient sitar," Helicon have amassed a collection of EPs, singles and a cult following so the psych-rockers' album has been long-anticipated within certain circles.
And indeed, Helicon's self-titled debut LP very much meets expectations. The band are known for their trippy live shows, though the band also indulge in a similar Indian mysticism influence as witnessed on The Beatles' White Album and more recently Kula Shaker. The use of sitar on Valmiki for instance is a clear reference to this, though its minor-key builds keep things fresh.
Single Seraph is a catchy come-down track, while as the album progresses a more distinguished Mogwai influence throws in a combustible element to Helicon's sound (and song-titles) on tracks like Drinking of You or Teenage Murder. While Helicon may rely on a familiar if still niche sound, the production by Tony Doogan (Mogwai, Belle & Sebastian) at the infamous Castle of Doom Studios gives this record the widescreen sound it thoroughly deserves.
Listen to: Seraph, Drinking of You, Teenage Murder