Album review - THE HIGH COMMISSIONERS - "Studies"

Although stimulated initially by an acoustic version of "Maybe You're Wrong" via Youtube, to completely appreciate the glorious nature of The High Commissioners, requires the full electric majesty offered through the debut album "Studies."  Listen no futher than opening track "Sleep When You're Dead," throbbing bass intro, rich soulful gravelly vocals and chiming guitars preclude three minutes of blues infused riffs, licks, drops and breakdowns. It's said, blues can't just be played, it has to be felt, the Anglo French four piece proving exactly that, the authenticity of "All Day Long' " evoking sweat drenched images of Mississippi Delta swamps, rather than North London or Paris .





















Although pursuing a traditional path, 60' and 70's influences apparent, The High Commissioners carve a thoroughly modern edge into their psychedelic musings, admittedly on occasion perhaps becoming overtly whimsical in nature, Will Hanley's stunning vocal range working best without ethereal effects, band providing raw, unfettered encouragement. "Maybe You're Wrong," a prime example, Hanley's delivery, while not reaching the depths of a Mark Lanegan, certainly sitting within Jamie N Commons territory, providing a similar, "Where the hell did that come from" effect, based on youthful apperance. 

It would appear the quartet split their time between the South of England and Northern France although blues music this pure and visceral designed to be played live, completely apt for travels far and wide. Surely The High Commissioners will soon establish an ever widening audience.

Incredibly, "Studies" is available as completely free download at the bands website, a mere click away. Hit the link below now and enter Tne High Commissioners sonically beguiling world .

http://highlycommissioned.co.uk/index.html