Instrumental band Seti the First have just released their debut album, Melting Cavalry, and this was launched in Whelans last Thursday (12 April 2012). The evening began with support act Matinee Idols, who had some pleasing guitar sounds but were let down by the singer’s shouty, sub-Mike Scott vocals. The laid-back music on offer was fairly pleasant but lacked real spark.
The bizarrely-titled main act, Seti the First, had a line up consisting of two cellos, led by Kevin Murphy and two guitars and a percussionist. When describing instrumental music it’s hard to avoid clichés like ‘cinematic’, though this five piece played some inspiring music right from opening track La Bassonette Noir. All the players, right down to the percussionist showed just the right amount of restraint and lightness of touch, over some intoxicating pieces such as Sugar To Sealion and New Brass Bird.
The music grew more powerful as the evening progressed, with Carnival and Defenstration of Leanne Manzarek coming across particularly strongly. On the evidence of this, Seti the First’s debut album is worth seeking out. Looking forward to doing so.
Killian Laher
