Exclusive Premiere: NO “What’s Your Name”
Posted by Melissa Locker on
It’s no secret that we like NO. We were first introduced to the band, when we got an email asking us to premiere a video for an unknown, unsigned, Los Angeles-based band. Normally we would decline because the world is filled with unknown unsigned bands and, well, you know, but one listen to NO and we were hooked. We premiered the haunting video (who knew crash test dummies could make you cry?) for their single “Stay With Me” back in March. Then we stalked them a little bit at SXSW 2011, catching two, maybe three, of their sets just to confirm that they were as compelling live as they were in the studio. But from the first moment we saw the band members lined up on stage like they were ready for an assault, there was no doubt: NO is great.
NO songs let loose at a relentless pace laid down by drummer Mike Walker, from there the music builds, adding layer upon layer of guitar, bass, and baritone, before hitting a wild crescendo. Vocalist Bradley Hanan Carter’s rich voice, which, yes, sounds like the guy from The National, barrels out in front of the instruments helping create a dense atmosphere of what’s been dubbed “post-anthemic rock.” It’s a talent that takes years to perfect, and sure enough, NO aren’t a bunch of newbies, but rather, professionals who know how to write a song, not just get lucky in the studio and hide behind post-production. The band’s impeccable musicianship, harmonies, and lyrical incisiveness is a lesson in song craft. The band doesn’t have a full-length album out yet, but their excellent six-song EP “Don’t Worry You’ll Be Here Forever” is available via their bandcamp page.
Other than just spreading the gospel of NO, the reason we are here today is that NO is releasing a 7″ record via White Iris Records, a label who put out such other notable acts as Best Coast, Fool’s Gold, Guards, and FIDLAR. We are very happy to introduce the first track from the release “What’s Your Name?” Please to enjoy:
Want to buy the album? Of course you do! Head here to purchase the 7″ from White Iris Records.
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