Splitting Edges have released their new EP ‘Only Words’.
Speaking of the EP, the band said: “Words are never ‘only words.’ They carry everything. These songs explore the stuff we say, the stuff we don’t and the way life can both connect and destroy us. They’re like masks. They sound catchy or sexy or romantic, but there’s always something darker or truer underneath.”
To celebrate their EP release, Splitting Edges shared 5 tracks that influenced ‘Only Words’.
Marvin Gaye- Trouble Man
This track is hard for anyone not to love and if you told me you didn’t like this tune, I think there may possibly be something wrong with you. Full of groove and swag it gives a real cinematic feel when you’re listening. Almost as if it’s been made for a film. This cinematic feel I think is quite relevant to ‘Underskin’ and ‘The Chase’.
Jamie T – The Man’s Machine
Jam-packed with weird and wonderful samples, a lot of lyrics and a lot of heart. I love the messiness off the track. Perfectly imperfect and rugged around the edges yet feeling like you’ve been hit in the face with everything he has. This song didn’t directly influence the EP but it’s a song that has been with us through our journey since the start.
Puma Blue – Bruise Cruise
I’ll admit, most of the jazzier tones that we’ve gone for on this EP have been inspired by Puma Blue. The perfect mix of poetic lyrics, dark yet sweet sounding melodies and hard hitting grungy saxophone. This song has a desperation and desire to it. Definitely a huge inspiration for getting Sax on tracks like ‘Blue Lady’ and ‘Morning Gun’. A great mix of passion and technical playing.
Arctic Monkeys – Crying Lightning
Would be rude not to mention the godfathers of indie rock music. Distorted bass and great storytelling really do go hand in hand on this one. Lyrically, The Arctic Monkeys have always played a massive role in our inspiration. You can truly visualise the story as he speaks the words. A huge inspiration behind songs like ‘The Chase’ and ‘Morning Gun’.
Wunderhorse – Teal
In a way Teal feels like the perfect song. The track’s gentle arrangement yet vivid storytelling creates a sense of vulnerability that is difficult to not resonate with. It’s not flashy or complex, yet there lies the beauty of the song, highlighting the power of simplicity and honesty. I think this can be heard most in ‘Underskin’, whether the influence is completely direct or not, the idea of vulnerability and honesty persists.
Stream ‘Only Words’:
Listen to Splitting Edges influences: