The Temper Trap: ‘The Science of Fear’
Australian band The Temper Trap have found themselves in many music journalist’s cool lists of 2009, most notably including the BBC’s sound of 2009. The hype surrounding them based on this their latest single is arguably very well deserved. The Aussie four-piece have been around since 2006 with the release of their first EP and look set to make it big on British shores this summer.
One thing that truly stands out about the track that makes a welcome change from standard indie songs is that the verses are more memorable than the chorus. All to often bands rely on a catchy chorus to get them through a bland and uninspiring song, however this is far from the case with The Temper Trap. The band cleverly fuses together infectious heavy guitar riffs with hints of dance beats, something rarely done to any great effect but carried out with such skill here.
What makes the song an absolute pleasure to listen to is that The Temper Trap seem to be not afraid to break out from the norm. To compliment the piece and give it an almost symphonic sound the band has chosen to include a violin part. Not only does this add to the texture of the song, it also gives a unique sound and takes it to another dimension. What’s so pleasing about this inclusion also is that the band are not trying to tick any boxes or make it obvious they have included a classic instrument as it only subtly blends into the background, yet creates a big difference to the songs over-all sound.
Lyrically the band do not come out at the top of the pile, "Breaks on/ there’s a science of fear/ it plagues my mind/ it keeps us right here", however the lyrics compliment the chaotic melody well. Furthermore lyrics need be no cause for concern when the instrumentation and production are so fitting and perfect.
While The Temper Trap might not be a name that is instantly recognised in the U.K at the moment, they are certainly building many bridges to secure this is the case soon. Their long awaited debut album is also due to drop very soon, and if the songs are anything like this, it could easily be in line for album of 2009.
Words: Kevin Angel
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