The anachronistic ensemble known as And Also The Trees, or AATT, emerged during the nascent years of post-punk in the pastoral confines of Worcestershire, England. This bucolic setting has perennially influenced the group, whose music delves into both the ominous depths and the serene beauty of the English countryside, through their captivating live performances. They embrace a unique style of mandolin-like electric guitar, folk stylings, evocative lyrics and dark jazz rhythms – not to mention a creative independence fiercely preserved for over four decades.
Simon Jones, the vocalist, alongside his brother Justin, the guitarist, established the band, which has remained an enduring entity within the realms of post-punk, alternative rock, and the gothic genre on a global scale. The group swiftly garnered the notice of Robert Smith of The Cure, leading to multiple invitations to tour together. Smith, along with his fellow band member Lol Tolhurst, contributed to AATT’s early productions. This collaboration evolved into a lasting friendship and mutual admiration, culminating in an invitation for AATT to perform at the 2018 Meltdown festival in London, a prestigious event orchestrated by Smith himself.
AATT’s forthcoming new album, Mother-of-pearl Moon, unveils a vast array of musical landscapes, originating from a unique set of electric guitar improvisations crafted in the solitary hours of early morning and late night during a month in 2020. This album is a rich blend of voice, clarinet, piano, percussion, autoharp, and Moog, creating a vivid auditory experience that transports the listener from the heart of the English countryside to the far reaches in every direction.
The tracks on Mother-of-pearl Moon evoke a cinematic quality, echoing various musical styles from the 1950s to the 1970s. A standout piece, This Path Through the Meadow, examines the complex relationship between humanity and the natural world, both animal and botanical. Those who love Nick Cave, PJ Harvey, Tuxedomoon, Patti Smith, and Leonard Cohen will discover a familiar depth in AATT’s introspective and richly psychedelic tunes. The album is a mosaic of poetic reflections reminiscent of William Blake and William Butler Yeats, woven together with captivating melodies.
In the mysterious video, the band seems to be playing to a phantom screening of an avant-garde film, under the gaze of a horse and with glimpses of the English countryside flickering in the background as they perform, enshrouded in shadow.
Mother-of-pearl Moon will be released in February 2024 and promoted with tours throughout the year. AATT have released fifteen studio albums and toured frequently throughout mainland Europe, as well as North America and Japan.
Tracklisting:
Follow and also the trees:
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