Wild Belle was signed to Columbia on the strength of their first single, Keep You, which attracted much attention from the Blogosphere. Their debut album Isles has been released today, to largely positive critical opinion. However, there are dissenting voices, such as NME who describe the vocals as cold and unconvincing, and didn't appreciate the slow tempi. The question on their first visit to Manchester is whether they're just a buzz band, with little more than fashion appeal, who will sink without trace.
The lyrics, with themes of boys and dresses lend weight to the thought that this might be an ephemeral outfit: Just Another Girl, for example, has hints of Lana Del Rey. Yet, as soon as you hear Elliot Bergman play the baritone sax, it's evident that there's musical substance behind the image. The siblings were joined by a backing drummer, keyboard player and bass, but the overwhelming impression was of Natalie's on stage presence. Counting the languorous tempos, she danced and moved with energy and passion, working the crowd through body language more than conversation. Yet the sole song fronted by Elliot, When it's Over, was captivating.
Natalie and Elliot were brought up in a highly musical family and started an Afrobeat band called Nomo at university. The jazz influence in Wild Belle comes from their parents, but crucially they also love the music of India, Africa and Brazil. They describe their sound as soul music, but the reggae beat often dominates. They're not afraid to use dreamy electronics, and describe influences as varied at Etta James and Eurythmics. Natalie's vocals are light and subtle rather than powerful, but the band sounded tight and the show was surprisingly polished for such a new act.
Their set was less than forty minutes, and devoid of encores. Charming and engaging though the music making is, there is a uniformity of style through their songs. I felt I'd been on a pleasurable but limited journey, and it'll be interesting to see if their second album explores more richly into their eclectic world music interests. Yet, Wild Belle will make a charming diversion at festivals this year and there's no doubting their performing abilities. If you're in a suitably relaxed mood, the mellow vibe may well transport you to a paradise. I've little doubt they're going to get their place in the sun this summer.
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