Tracks That Shaped Our Sound: Gustaffson
"On Broadway" is the stunning new single from Liverpool-born singer-songwriter Andrew Gower and his band Gustaffson. This track is just the beginning, as it serves as the lead single from their eagerly anticipated debut album, Black & White Movie, set to drop on March 15, 2025.
Produced by Craig Potter of Elbow fame, the album features collaborations with Emmy-winning composer Bear McCreary and the legendary Sir Ben Kingsley. Accompanied by a visually striking music video directed by Andy Goddard and featuring actor Daniel Ings, "On Broadway" is described as a "filmic, theatrical tale of injustice." Dive into this soulful anthem and get ready to explore the cinematic world of Gustaffson!
1. To The Brink - I Am Kloot
Kloot have consistently been a reference for the band. ‘Sky at Night’ being one of our favourite albums. ‘To The Brink’ John Bramwell’s lyrics shine a light on fragility of the human mind. It always makes me think of a touring artist propping themselves up at a hotel bar.
The everyday darkness ‘You’re the guy on the bus who’s not quite one of us you hear laughter’ mixed with the grandeur of strings and Jobson’s/Elbows incredible production. During our album recording at Blueprint Manchester with Craig Potter (Elbow), I’d always ask him to share tales of ‘Sky At Night’ which was recorded in the same studio.
2. Artic Monkeys - Sculptures If Anything Goes
A band that stuck with myself & Webbo all the way through college and to this very day. Which is a rarity in any art form. It’s amazing listening to a band mature, as you also get older at the same time. The cinematic feel and soundscape of this track was a reference for On Broadway. Space for Turner’s lyrics being key.
3. Keep the Customer Satisfied - Simon & Garfunkel
I’d listen to this track on my old CD player at school - making a dog kennel in my Design & Technology class. There’s a pure theatricality and journey of the song - which I love. How something so intimate can build into something so grand. Two of the greatest song-writers to have ever graced the planet. No track of theirs is written with same story and no lyric is wasted. The way they present their music is really special too . No spoon feeding and ALL made for their audience.
4. The Doors - People Are Strange
The day our pianist Liam joined the band ‘The Doors’ became a go to reference for our sound. Particularly for the battered piano of ‘On Broadway’. Timeless Rock and Roll. With origins of blues & church music at the core. The son of a preacher. Their use of the organ is inspired. I don’t think any band has topped that.We don’t like to reference ourselves using other bands and don’t see it helpful … but if someone EVER muttered ‘The Doors’ comparison it would leave all five of us incredibly flattered.
5. Muse - Feeling Good
This was our Drummers choice (Mr Graham Bennett). I initially wasn’t convinced, however the more I think of the origins of the song: Nina Simone and so many jazz/blues singers covering it … I now agree. The grandeur of a Matt Bellamy falsetto and stylistic guitar solos, all grounded by the lyrics. Graham was right.
If WE were to add a 6th it would be Dr John. That was our main reference for the piano sound suggested by our bassist Dave.
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