REVIEW: Duchess by Honours
Although York is not often talked about as being a key place where influential bands have formed, there is no denying York brought the Britpop scene some iconic music from the likes of Shed Seven and The Seahorses. However now, York’s new 4-piece Honours, are here
to show the current indie scene the talent coming from York, by providing it with music that deserves to be held in high regard.
Back in March 2018, Honours released their debut single ‘Freedom’ (an upbeat track consisting of funky verses and enthusiastic choruses you cannot resist tapping your feet to), but in May, they stepped up another level with ‘Duchess’: an indie rock anthem that exceeds the level of energy you can usually hear on a tune of this genre.
Honours build up the intensity during the introduction which immediately engages the listener, making them eager to hear how the tune will develop. Straight away you can hear a resounding guitar hook that works as a teaser for the riff and upcoming melodies. Quickly increasing the texture, a crystal clear offbeat drum pattern steadily prepares the listener for what is still to come, before cascading into the ferociously dynamic collision of the guitars and drums that later is recognised to be the instrumental behind the choruses.
“It’s morning and you’re still my sweet dream” — Honours
I love how the vocalist Jordan Brown elongates the delivery of some of the lyrics, emphasizing the amount he idolizes the ‘Duchess’. Throughout the song, the lyrics persistently create a sense of worship, giving Brown the perfect reason to deliver them with great passion.
“Forever, I call you, my Duchess” — Honours
The verses could almost be split into two sections, where the first halves are slightly steadier versions of what is still to be heard and the second halves are more complex, as guitars are increasingly used to accentuate more beats. This creates a jolting feel that alongside the offbeat drum pattern (supplied by Dan Atkinson), constantly provides the listener with an exciting beat to tap their feet to.
Tom McVey on the bass guitar contributes with a solid rhythm that is key in making Duchess sound complete, whilst Struan McInnes — who brings forth the main electrifying guitar rhythms — gives the track the rock n roll atmosphere that makes it sound unique compared to any other track I’ve recently heard emerging from the indie rock music scene.
Every time I listen to this song, I cannot believe that Honours only formed in February 2018, as the sound produced is already so polished and confident. I’m so excited to hear more from Honours in the future as their music should only get better as they become more experienced.
If you’re reading this and thinking “I’d love to hear this anthem live” and are able to get to York on the night of the 7th July, you’re in luck because Honours are taking part in a This Feeling gig at The Fulford Arms! Tickets are only £6 so why not treat yourself to “a show you will never forget”.
This review was originally published on Alternative Atmosphere in 2018.
