In this age of modern thinking and form filling, it has become standard for young bands to try to fit into one genre or another in order to be the next big thing. Then up pops Keri Williamson with her band Keltrix, who are definitely not playing by the rules.

Flipping easily between folk, reggae and good old-fashioned indie rock (when indie still meant independent), Keltrix defies anyone to tell them that by not being pigeon-holed into a particular genre, they can’t produce good music. The self-titled EP starts out with the upbeat Lame - with lines such as ‘Working in a shop, selling stupid clothes for too much money’ that expose a cynical side to the band. Lame is followed by the infectious Hide, a dance number featuring a catchy hook played by the violin - this is an obvious crowd pleaser. It is worth noting the impressively mutated four on the floor rhythm that drives this track forward at a breakneck pace. Danger is the statutory mellow track, but in fact, taking a step back from the normal all-out approach allows the members to really shine. Keri makes full use of her impressive voice, featuring a range of growls, yodels, and a trademark Björk-like yelp, which is much in evidence throughout the EP. The final track on the 4-track EP is a dance re-mix, with some really impressive drumming called Hug the Feeling. Reminiscent of Vangelis, this gem wouldn’t be out of place on a late night Radio 1 Dance program.

In all, the EP Keltrix is an interesting listen, and aptly showcases a band who are not afraid to be different.

Writer: Tom Adams

www.myspace.com/keltrix

Back »