An eclectic mix with a nostalgic sound is what South Africa natives Civil Twilight offer in its new album, “Holy Weather.”
This sophomore album contains a total of 11 tracks, with three bonus tracks featured on iTunes, and a distinct opposition to their self-titled first album.
What “Holy Weather” offers is a soothing, alternative tone that meshes well with vocalist Steven McKellar’s haunting voice, as opposed to the group’s darker, “grunge-esque” first album.
Touching on some eerie styles similar to Brand New’s “Daisy,” “Holy Weather” contains depth-filled tracks.
The single “Fire Escape,” featured on the album, is a more mainstream alternative song with an airy-sounding bassline that is easy for alternative lovers to get into.
“It’s Over” is the main ballad of the album. It incorporates emotional lyrics with soft guitars and simple beats.
The track lineup for “Holy Weather” gives listeners an introduction to Civil Twilight’s unique sound, starting off with more upbeat songs and progressing to more mellow ballads. However, it comes full-circle, ending with energetic and enlightened tracks.
In an interview with Fuse TV, McKellar said that while the band was on the road, there was more pressure to get this album finished than the previous album.
“I love pressure; I love working under those situations,” McKellar said. “Usually that is when the most amazing stuff comes out, if you’re ready for it.”
McKellar, Richard Wouters and McKellar’s brother, Andrew McKellar, formed Civil Twilight in their South African home, Cape Town, and found that coming to the U.S. has been a vital part of their career.
Once the group got to the United States, Civil Twilight started in Los Angeles but found its niche in Nashville, Tenn., immersing themselves into the Southern culture.
Due to their South African roots, the band’s style is quite distinct with an earthy sound and provides a unique branch of alternative for the U.S. audience.
The band signed with Wind-up Records, which produced its first huge hit, “Letters From the Sky.”
Civil Twilight’s albums can be purchased on iTunes, and “Holy Weather” is now streaming on the band’s website, civiltwilightband.com.
