Words by Charlie Brock
Photo by Joe Moss
Nice Swan have established themselves as a vanguard for breaking new, exciting talent: the latest group to release through the cult label are Manchester’s West Side Cowboy, with their debut single ‘‘I've never met anyone i thought i could really love (until i met you)’.
Produced by Nice Swan alumni, Lewis Whiting (English Teacher), the number is a brilliant blend of influences. They open their first release with a guttural cry of their own band’s name - it’s a brilliant moment of self-assuredness and a real marker for who the band are. Shades of West Coast indie, country and traditional rock stylings are the foundation of the number as well as glimpses of Pavement and Teenage Fanclub in the moody, 90s slacker-rock soundscape. West Side Cowboy also work in contemporary influences like Nottingham high-flyers Divorce: WSC call this unique sonic mix ‘Britainicana’.
It’s gloriously awash with melancholy, driven by punchy drums and crunchy guitar before breaking into a more subtle, lo-fi verse. They push and pull sonically, cutting soft, tender verses with ginormous choruses designed to be belted out at the top of your lungs. The tune has the feel of early Pixies' quiet-loud-quiet style, and the whole thing is brought together by spectacular dualling vocals and harmonies.
‘Ive never met anyone i thought i could really love (until i met you)’ feels geared to a live audience, with the soaring choruses and chunky percussion bound to inspire reactions from any audience. It’s a stellar first effort from the Mancunian band and with the backing of Nice Swan, the sky is the limit.
Listen HERE
Live Dates
14th Nov - O2 Ritz Manchester, Manchester (w/ English Teacher)
15th Nov - The Windmill, Brixton, London (w/ SOFT & Alien Chicks)
16th Nov - Live At Leeds
22nd Nov - The Rat & Pigeon, Manchester
3rd Dec - The Castle Hotel, Manchester
WestSide Cowboy Online
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