inFictions; Maps of Revenge and Forgiveness

Hannah Murphy

It’s a new year; new start, which means new music. So, in that case is there room for a new prog rock band with a debut album on the way, who come from Sheffield, and go by the name of inFictions? Listen to the album Maps of Revenge and Forgiveness and the answer is clear. There is most definitely room.

With a sound that’s reminiscent to the likes of Radiohead and Editors; inFictions have clearly found their niche. Opening track This Road Leads to the Village of Informers commences the album with an intense build up that later introduces us to the soulful voice of lead singer Ed Cartledge. The track leads on to Frozen River, one that is particularly striking. It becomes apparent now that this is a conceptual album, designed to tell a story. It’s the track which really hooks listeners, leaving it hard not to become engrossed. It most definitely creates a dramatic atmosphere; one that actually makes 1920’s silent movies, spring to mind! The styling of the lyrics, the vocals and the instruments, make it the ideal soundtrack to a tragedy movie. “A prisoner of his sins he now waits…” “The only way it can end, is how it begins.”

After hearing many a ukulele over the last year or so from bands such as Vampire Weekend, Noah and the Whale and Arcade Fire, it’s refreshing to hear something new that’s a little heavier, something raw.

Line Drawings is another stand out track; engaging and intelligent to say the least. The instruments are cleverly used and help to connect the album title to the music itself. The echoing drums combined with the strings create the feeling of being on a voyage, perhaps on a ship? “Maps of Revenge and Forgiveness.” Could this be part of the concept, who knows? These two tracks along with Orchards leave a lot to the listener’s imagination.

For a debut album this is highly skilled, creative and profound. Put 20th February in your diary as the release date and buy the album, you won’t regret it!