Marking their first release under the name ‘THE PEOPLE THE POET’, ‘Thank You For Today’ is a four track acoustic EP from the artists formerly collectively known as TIGER PLEASE, intended as a celebration of life and a small taster of what to expect from the band’s debut album later this year.
First thing first is that THE PEOPLE THE POET are a much different band to their now defunct previous band – they’re much, much slicker with an added folk vibe. It’s a combination that works and is something you can definitely see appealing to a wider audience. The subject matter remains typically heavy, with this particular release tackling the subjects of bigotry and the loss of loved ones.
First up is ‘Divided Kingdom’, and the folk vibe is immediately apparent. The addition of violins to their line-up change has done wonders for depth to the sound. The tune is melancholic, and goes hand in hand with the sobering lyrics. It’s a wonderful little song.
Next, the main two full length songs of the EP arrive, beginning with ‘The Trip’. The song tells the story of a boy who took a trip in which he finds out his mother has passed away. It’s a song that represents the storytelling side of THE PEOPLE THE POET. There are no metaphors here; the subject matter is hard hitting and straight to the point, all the while building up to a wonderful bridge in which we hear hints of frontman Leon Stanford’s raw vocals making a return. The song remains suitably refined throughout and serves as a fitting memory for a wonderful person.
This is followed by the emotional ‘Iora’ – a song that is extremely clever in what it does. It tells the story of a person who has lost someone extremely close to them while also incorporating that person’s own personal battle with their faith. ‘Iora’ is a violin led song, and a reflection of memories that are so strong you find yourself living the moments in your head. It’s a very powerful bit of writing, and as the climax of the song rings out with the words “If I stop believing in God, then I stop believing in her”, you find yourself reflecting on your own personal loss.
The whole EP ends with the message “Hello tomorrow, Goodbye yesterday, Thank you for the present, Thank you for today” – an important message that reminds people that are suffering that it does get better.
‘Thank You For Today’ is a very accomplished EP, showing maturity within THE PEOPLE THE POET, while also outlining a direction that the band are heading in. It’s an encouraging direction, and one that we look forward to following into the future.
CHRIS MARSHMAN