Hailing from Birmingham, these boys have a unique sound, taking influence from some of member’s Caribbean roots, which is where the band name originates: a village on the island of St. Vincent. Caribbean vibes are clear throughout the band’s set who manage to produce a chilled out atmosphere in the Bodega, but at many moments forcing the crowd to break into dance.
Opening track, Trees, which is also the first track of their debut album The Grace, has an extensive electric opening creating natural sounds, with the repetition of lyrics ‘We climb these trees, to be on top of the world,’ building up to produce a bassy drop. Giving the crowd a sense of escapism, which makes you feel like you are in a small, dark festival tent, rather than out in Nottingham on a chilly Monday night.
Describing their sound as Bass Escapism, Soul and Dub, Troumaca’s distinct sound is like nothing around now. Previous single Lady Colour provides a melodic opening, with entrancing sounds that you cannot help but be attracted to, likewise with Ivory where the repetitiveness of the lyrics creates a deep atmosphere, with lead singer, Samuel Baylis’ distinct vocals truly taking shape.
A distinctive aspect of Troumaca is their harmonies and sharing of vocals between two singers. Gold, Women and Wine is performed by Geoffrey Foulkes, who mainly plays rhythm guitar and his energy is clearly reflected by the crowd who can’t help but sing a long and have a dance throughout their set.
The band’s mix of coming from an urban environment and their Caribbean heritage complement each other, through their mix of percussion and synths, setting the backdrop of their sound. The Kingdom and new single The Grace, have a fast-paced, yet dubby sound, which you can still have a good sing along to.
Unlike some of their Birmingham contemporaries at the moment, Troumaca, have a sound like no other and their debut album The Grace deserves attention.
By Jess Salter
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