Airiel - The Battle of Sealand

Some of you out there might remember when I wrote a bit about the band Airiel on the blog sometime back in November. In that post I mentioned they had a new album on the way and when they did finally get close to releasing it I would be back to write about it. Well, it’s that time and Airiel are now prepped to release their first full-length album titled The Battle of Sealand on August 21st through Highwheel Records. It’s been a long time coming and has probably been one of the most anticipated albums for me in the past year or so. Regardless, it’s finally arriving and I couldn’t be happier with the results.

To recap, Airiel has been around since 1997 in some form or another. It was originally the solo project of member Jeremy Wrenn, however eventually grew into a full band. Since their formation they have released a handful of EP’s, four of which were collected into one box set titled Wink and Kisses. If you can track down the EP’s contained within this series (Frosted, Dizzy, Melted, and Crackled), I would highly recommend it as it’s some of the most beautiful, well done, and original shoegaze out there. They also released a self-titled EP in ’05, which was one of my favorite releases from that year, so check that out as well.

As for the new album, The Battle of Sealand sees the band moving into more rock oriented territory with their swirling and sparkling sound. At times it reminds me of Swervedriver during the Raise era of the band. It’s a side of the band we’ve really only seen tiny glimpses of in the past, however they’ve made it one of the propelling factors for their sound on their debut. I must say it sounds really good too. For those that might be a bit weary of that, have no fear, there is plenty of Airiel’s trademark shimmering beauty contained within as well. Songs like “Peoria”, “Thinktank”, and “Red Friends” all sound like songs that would have fit nicely nestled within some of their previous work, however think that but with a larger and much fuller sound. While I am completely all about Airiel’s updated sound, I am glad they decided to mix it up a bit. It’s a very well balanced album that captures the band experimenting with their sound a bit, but in no way abandoning and/or compromising what makes them so captivating. The Battle of Sealand gets the highest recommendation from me. Do be sure and buy it whenever it comes out in late August.

The Battle of Sealand:
Airiel – Thinktank [MP3]

Also, I decided to upload some of the songs I featured in my last Airiel post again. So be sure to check out the tunes below as well.

Winks and Kisses:
Airiel – Kiss Me Slowly [MP3]

Airiel:
Airiel – 500 Deep [MP3]

Shirley Temple Tidal Wave/Stationary Lights 7’’:
Airiel – Stationary Lights [MP3]

Keep an eye out for The Battle of Sealand. In the meantime continue to check out the bands MySpace and their label Highwheel Records for some more music and news on the album.