Bendigo Fletcher is a lovely Americana, indie folk band out of Louisville, Kentucky.
They have an upcoming EP, “Wing Dig” coming out Oct. 21. In anticipation to this release they have release two singles, “Pterodactyl” and “Strange Encounters”.
What I find to be so enchanting about this band is that they have glimpses of so many sounds within them.
They are still such a fresh band, their musical identity has yet to form fully. It is prominent in their latest album, “Fits of Laughter” that this band has so much versatilely. Upon listening to the first beats of the songs on this album it is difficult to believe they all emerge from the same artist.
This unpredictability and mystery to Bendigo Fletcher’s sound is what is so intriguing to me. They have the ability to expand far beyond the box of the modern indie folk sound.
I lot of this flexibility stems directly from the lead singer and songwriter, Ryan Anderson. His fantastical lyrics and rustically delicate voice are difficult to compare. Their track “Evergreen” is an excellent example of his uniqueness. Out of nowhere he pulls out a vocal technique reminiscent of classic rock bands such as the iconic Led Zeppelin. This stripped vocals this this chorus fits perfectly with his lyrics:
“For between death and the baby’s breath / We are all perennial majesty in the daily shine”
All to say I was excited to see what Bendigo Fletcher would be bringing in their newest releases.
The New Singles
I think a lot can be communicated in the first few beats of a song. The first couple measures dictate so much of what the song will set out to achieve.
Having a successful first few measures is like having a solid foundation to a building. Without a good foundation, why continue building? In other words, why continue listening to the rest of the song is the first five seconds are uninspiring?
I don’t believe these two tracks have successful beginnings. They sounded like any other indie folk band and any other indie folk song. This this very disappointing knowing the musical potential of Bendigo Fletcher.
However, “Strange Encounters” really built up my anticipation. The second half of the track is very intriguing– featuring clashing harmonies and great vocal work. This track, although not one of my favorites by them, certainly sets a good tone for the album to come.
“Pterodactyl” was less successful in my option, it holds a really low energy throughout it’s entirety and gives no musical hints to the album to come. It is a pleasant track, ideal for the fall season, just not my hope for Bendigo Fletcher.
Conclusion
I will be anxiously awaiting Oct. 21 to see what sounds they will bring to “Wing Dig”.
Regardless if they bring classic folk or classic rock into this release, it will undoubtedly be a great album for the fall and winter season.
I hope you all are having a great start to the chilly season, I hope to share more excellent fall music will you all shortly. Stay tuned.
