SUGARMOON

Bristol based band Sugarmoon emerged in late 2019 as a folk pop force, with a collection of original songs at the ready, the songs were rooted in vintage folk however not settling to any particular genre.  The band bring a fusion of beer-hall ragtime, soaring saxophone harmonies and five-way harmonies, the eccentric group evoke vintage vibes of bands like The Mama's & Papa's.  The band have played a number of gigs in their native Bristol, including at Crofters Rights, Cafe Kino and Mr Wolf's, they have sold out performances for global music collective Soar Sounds, where they scaled up their sound to suit the surroundings, from a triumphant full set to a completely stripped back set in a pitch black park.

Each member of the band contributes vocals alongside their respective instruments.  Ryan McMurty is the bands lead singer, songwriter and guitarist, Sophie Jones brings an array of instruments to live shows, where she works through guitar, saxophone, ukulele and flute, as well as lead and backing vocals.  Dave Martin is on the bass and was formerly a member of Holy Moly & The Crackers.  Joe Schutz on keys is known for his captivating solos and drummer Ollie Grant is highly regarded across Bristol for his impeccable talents that have graced countless bands over many genres.  The band recently released their first single of 2021 'Autumn Leaves'.

If a season was a song then 'Autumn Leaves' is what you would expect Autumn to sound like.  You can picture yourself listening to this song whilst walking through a park where all the leaves are starting to turn those golden brown colours as they float to the ground.  The track is so dreamlike in its atmosphere, yet evokes strong feelings as the lyrics touch on the mental strain of love and loss, which you are instantly drawn to as they dig deep but delivered in a calming tone.  The mellow keys and the bass line bring that element of warmth and depth and the beautiful sound from the flute playing a sombre melody is carried along nicely with the toe tapping jazz beat from the drums.  Nothing in this track is rushed, it takes a leisurely pace that allows you to feel at ease whilst you are listening, as well as taking in all its passion and emotion.  The drum beat, bass line and vocals are all centred in the mix, with the guitar and keys panned to the side to add dimension with each ear taking in each sound separately but both connecting together to create a feeling of tranquility.  The flute sits right in the background, almost as if it is projecting itself forward from the corner of the room, again this adds to the dimensions and depths of the track to create a full and warm sound.  All the instrumental elements give way nicely to the beautifully melancholic vocals from Sophie Jones, allowing for a smooth and relaxing listen.

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