The Shangs: Who Can See The Shadow Of The Sun?
The recently reunited Hamilton psych-pop combo has delivered a superb new album. This track is one of its most experimental, featuring a moody and minimal soundscape, robust vocals, and an impressionistic video.
By Kerry Doole
The Shangs - Who Can See The Shadow Of The Sun? (Judigee! Records): Hamilton combo The Shangs is built around songwriters David Byers and Ed O'Neill. Back in the early '70s, Byers co-founded psych/proto-punk faves Simply Saucer, before forming The Shangs in 1989. A couple of acclaimed albums followed, with the band calling it a day in 2010.
Thankfully, a recent reunion has resulted in a superb new album, Golden Hits Of The Shangs. The title is facetious, as this material is unlikely to find a home outside of campus radio.
That's a pity, for The Shangs' material is smart, oft-melodic, and well-produced.
This 5.57 focus track is one of the most experimental on the album. Atop a moody and minimal soundscape, Byers' robust vocals spin a rather portentous tale, while the black and white video provides impressionistic accompaniment.
Liner notes explain that Who Can See The Shadow Of The Sun? was initially written for a Simply Saucer commemoration project Saucer 73 (yet to be released).
The entire album is strongly recommended. Let's hope for shows to follow.
Links
Contact: theshangs@gmail.com
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