Frightened Rabbit - Swim Until You Can't See Land

  by Anthony Middleton

published: 12 / 12 / 2009

Label: Fat Cat Records
Format: 7"

intro

Riverting string-accompanied latest vinyl only single from Scottish indie rock group, Frightened Rabbit

Frightened Rabbit have made a short career out of honest, hard-hitting songs that look at life through eyes of people who are on the edge. With this single the predicament they are looking at is more obvious from the outset. From dipping a toe into the North Sea, to being knee deep in water to being nearly out of sight of land, this is not usual territory and is one that is intelligently and bravely handled. Not many singers are willing to put themselves in the place of such a desperate protagonist and not many do it with the total sincerity that Scott Hutchison does. This time last year I reviewed 'It’s Christmas So I’ll Stop' about a truce in family warfare over the festive turkey. This year we have someone trying to get to Norway without a ferry. There is no emoting here however, more matter of fact simplicity with spare, direct lyrics. This is about trying to get away from everything, rebirth, maybe even death. The music is a departure for the band with a pulsating string accompaniment that swells as the song crescendos, creating a euphoria perfectly matching the expression of freedom in the lyrics. Frightened Rabbit have a new album and tour to come early in the New Year and on the basis of this single it could be a momentous year for them.

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