Pickwick is a band with the potential to be extravagant and the knowledge to be innovative, but chooses to pull back and make American minimalist music. They perform with nine people on stage; lead singer, guitarist, keyboard, bass, drummer, a xylophone percussionist, and a choir of backups ready to belt vocals, clap hands and shake tambourines. Are all of these people necessary? Maybe not, but it gives the band a real authentic feel. When bands these days could loop or create any sound using electronics, Pickwick makes their show more like a spectacle, giving everyone a job, and having fun with what they’re doing. Pickwick reminds me of a group of friends, everyone willing and wanting to be apart of this project.

While you can hear their funk influences, their songs are driven by simple chord progressions coming from either the keyboard or the guitarist. Don’t get me wrong though, this band knows how to rock it, and is willing to get loud and put their songs to strength. They’re the opposite of a “showy” band, they hold back, and write great songs. They’re going in the same direction as a band like Spoon, with incredible potential but a strong pop sensibility.

They’re releasing their new material as a series of EPs, called “Myths”. They’re available to buy on vinyl and/or a digital download. They’re a band capable to make whatever kinds of sound they want, but smart enough catch the attention of fans. I wonder where the “Myths” will take them.

Here’s some tracks and some pics:

Hacienda Motel

Hacienda Motel

The Round

The Round