Islands

Islands: A Groovy Journey Through Indie Folk

Islands, a Canadian indie rock band formed in 2001, is known for their distinctive blend of folk, rock, and electronic influences, creating a unique and captivating sound. The band, led by Nick Thorburn (formerly of the band The Unicorns), crafts intricate melodies, introspective lyrics, and often dark and atmospheric instrumentation, making them a staple of the indie folk scene.

Their music is characterized by:

• Layered harmonies: Thorburn’s layered vocals, often accompanied by Nick Krgovich on guitar, create a rich and complex soundscape.
• Unique instrumentation: Islands’ sound incorporates unconventional instruments like the mbira, glockenspiel, and even a melodica, adding a touch of the unexpected.
• Lyrical depth: Thorburn’s lyrics delve into themes of love, loss, and the complexities of human experience, often tinged with a melancholic undertone.

Top Tracks:

• “A Little Bird”: This iconic track showcases Islands’ trademark folk-rock style with its catchy melody, heartfelt lyrics, and layered vocals.
• “Weekend”: A more upbeat song with a driving rhythm and catchy chorus, it explores the escapism and longing for freedom that many can relate to.
• “See You Again”: A hauntingly beautiful ballad with a simple yet powerful melody, it perfectly captures the emotional rollercoaster of a break-up.
• “The Sun”: A more experimental track with a haunting and repetitive melody, it features the band’s signature layered vocals and electronic flourishes.
• “The Reeling”: A driving and energetic song that features a memorable guitar riff and Thorburn’s passionate vocals, it showcases Islands’ ability to blend folk and rock seamlessly.

Similar Artists:

• The Unicorns: Thorburn’s previous band, The Unicorns, shares a similar quirky and playful energy with Islands, though their sound is more heavily influenced by 80s synth-pop.
• Modest Mouse: Known for their introspective lyrics, complex arrangements, and driving rhythms, Modest Mouse shares a similar indie sensibility with Islands.
• Neutral Milk Hotel: Influenced by folk, experimental rock, and psychedelia, Neutral Milk Hotel’s music also explores themes of love, loss, and the human condition, with a similar depth and complexity.
• The Shins: The Shins’ upbeat and melodic folk-rock sound, with catchy hooks and introspective lyrics, aligns with Islands’ more accessible and catchy tracks.
• The National: Both Islands and The National explore themes of melancholia, longing, and the complexities of human relationships through their atmospheric instrumentation and introspective lyrics.

Friends and Collaborations:

• Nick Krgovich: A long-time collaborator with Islands, Krgovich is a multi-talented musician and songwriter who plays guitar and provides backing vocals for the band.
• The Hidden Cameras: Islands and The Hidden Cameras, both Canadian indie bands, have shared the stage numerous times and have a mutual admiration for each other’s music.
• The New Pornographers: Islands have toured and collaborated with The New Pornographers, another Canadian indie rock band known for their energetic and melodic sound.

Islands’ music is a testament to the enduring power of heartfelt lyrics, intricate arrangements, and a unique blend of genres. Their sound is both familiar and fresh, offering a captivating journey through the complexities of human experience. Whether you’re seeking a moment of introspection or a catchy tune to get you moving, Islands has something for everyone.