Butterflies on Strings EP – What did John Stuart Mill say again?

There’s not a lot to dislike about the latest EP from this London based indie-pop four piece.  What did John Stuart Mill say again? is a nice clean sound.  Melodic guitars with friendly rhythms, it’s the sound of spring-time – new awakenings, fresh and clearly drawing influences from both British guitar pop (think The Feeling) and American indie (The Shins/Modest Mouse).

What did John Stuart Mill say again? captures an optimism and encouraging emotion through its up-beat rhythm and lyrics describing aspiration.  It is fast-paced but without the rush of unease some up-tempo beats can bring.  Beginning with soft “oos” setting the scene for an altogether pleasant experience, the lead singer’s voice imperfect but balanced to sit comfortably over the pretty sound previously created.

Enticing and catchy, it’s a fun single where the lyrics reflect the journey of the song.  “I don’t know how to progress, it’s just a lack of confidence…” is the opening line, fitting lyrics for a new release and reflective of a musician striving for perfection.

The harmonies are simple but drive the melody forward.  The tick ticking of the percussion almost like a clicking metronome, keeps the beat in check so that the piece does ‘progress.’

Butterflies on Strings have built up quite a following, not only through their MySpace, Twitter and Facebook pages but also from performing in various venues in London.

Further exposure has come from being invited to play at Kerrang and Q Radio’s New Music night, which then resulted in the recording of their Live from London EP after being invited to a live session at the Red Bull Studios in London.

The energy portrayed in this EP highlights a band who undoubtedly suit a live venue, whether that’s lazing in the sun of a festival, casually tapping your legs to their rhythms or moving along with a crowd in an intimate bar gig.

Fran Bonner – February 2012