Memphis, Tennessee based emo meets shoegaze four-piece Mayfair has previously broken up before they really began. Now they are stronger than ever and ready for a fight. “I told him that if they were interested, I’d play bass for them if they wanted to start playing shows again. And the rest is history,” bassist Sam reveals. It marked the start of a new era for the relatively inexperienced band, and one which has led them to the release of ‘Swell’.
“‘Swell’ is kinda a culmination of the past few years of what we have been writing as a band,” analyses Mayfair guitarist Frank. “Starting with our demo we started out a lot more abrasive but after changing our set a few times and changing members, I feel like we have a solid sound and a solid direction.”
It’s an attitude shared by fellow band members. “‘Swell’, to me, is kind of a representation of how this band has grown and matured over time. We spent the last two years trying to find “our sound” but I think we’re getting there, ‘Swell’ has a sound that we all really liked,” guitarist and vocalist Jon agrees.
With the single out in the public domain, Mayfair are now looking towards the future. Their next stop sees them take to the stage at showcase festival South By Southwest in Austin, Texas. It’s a perfect opportunity for them to bring their layered, dense soundscapes to new audiences. It’s a sound that channels early shoegaze – taking a leaf out of My Bloody Valentine’s book for intensity.
For drummer Gavin, Mayfair have found their flow. “Hopefully as much new material as possible,” he responds when asked what lies on the horizon. “I’m not quite sure where we’re headed, but we’ll always be moving forward.”
And it’s not just their music packing a punch either; all four members of Mayfair are black-belts. “Wait you guys are black belts too?” Gavin jokes. “Even I’m surprised.”
LYRICS:
Cant be honest.
Don’t have anything to say.
An empty bed can’t be that bad.
In my arms a sleepless night.
A guilty morning light.
I wish I could spill my guts
but I’m too dead inside to feel more than the swell of your back against my chest.
Some things just don’t work out.