One of the definitions of the word "Accelerate" is to increase in extent or amount.
This vibrant raucous second single from the 4-piece band Benin City does just that with a massive cherry on top! Named after the Nigerian state capital, this London-based band consists of the members: Theo Buckingham (drums), Faye Treacy (Trombone/BVs), Tom Leaper (Tenor Saxophone/Samples/Synths) and Joshua Idehen (Vocals). Although they have only been going since 2009, the tight musical chemistry as demonstrated in their material since then, and this current single, is second to none and really inspiring to hear from such a "young" band.
Accelerate provides the solid brass and full-on energy of a modern New Orleans brass band that's ready to party on the Mardi Gras parade route, but what makes it stand apart from being just another party track is that it is undeniably multi-layered and full of talent and craftmanship. As well as these anthemic horns, it adds in poetic spoken word, athletic drums and mad synths to make an impressive melee of live instruments and vocals. Joshua Idehen drops some wonderful lyrical subliminals and metaphors in his descriptive, well-thought out, heart-thumping verse to ride the wonderful backdrop beat which goes in and out of Afrobeat, Hip-Hop, Funk, Drum and Bass, and Jazz.
Sonically, this sounds out of this world and astonishes you with its tempo changes, energy and pace. It's like an organised mess (I mean this in a good natural way), which sounds like the best jam session with musicians and vocals coming together with aplomb to great effect. It's so addictive and gets better with every listen, because you hear something new in terms of picking out the individual sax rhythm, drum pattern, or very witty lyrics. It feels newer every time you press play.
Get into the single below to understand the vibrant, energetic side to one of the UK's most exciting new bands.
This second single is released digitally on the Audio Doughnuts record label on September 17th, with more remixes soon to hit the eclectic musical horizon.