Creating a fresh sound, TV Pins seamlessly combine chiming Britpop with the sun-soaked vibes of 70s West Coast music and the result is their debut album Aircutter, out October 25th.
Hailing from London and the West Midlands, TV Pins rapidly garnered attention for their vibrant live performances and infectious melodies. With lead singer James Schofield‘s smooth vocals harmonising beautifully with the musical prowess of Duncan O’Neill, Miles Nicholas, Simon Hudson, and Grace Bailey-Hinks, Aircutter provides an uplifting yet classic listening experience.
The opening track, “Oh Yeah,” sets a celebratory tone with its infectious energy and instantly grabs one’s attention. It lays the groundwork for what’s to come. This band knows how to make an entrance, and with the power-driven “Bye Bye Reseda,” it becomes clear that their sound is full of energy and yet grounded in solid songwriting.
What makes Aircutter a must-listen is its versatility. TV Pins play with a mix of styles be it 60s psychedelia in “Cool White Jug” or the bluesy swing of “Shining Light”, they keep one engaged while still maintaining a cohesive sound. There’s a nostalgic pull in their tracks, yet nothing feels dated. Instead, the band manages to breathe new life into their influences while creating something entirely their own.
Tracks like “Roundabout” and “Magpie Eyes” show their knack for storytelling. The gritty tales of life’s grind and envious characters are paired with guitar-driven melodies that nod to bands like The Smiths and Teenage Fanclub. The album seamlessly flows with moments of high-octane fun that give way to more contemplative and layered sounds like on the title track, “Aircutter.” Here, TV Pins aim for an 80s-inspired grandiosity and with the orchestral synths and striking guitar solos they deliver a sweeping statement that feels larger than life.
One of the album’s standout features is how well it balances dynamics. Just when you think it’s all high-energy rock, they pull it back with “Tonight,” a heartfelt closer that strips things down to a more vulnerable core. Each track is thoughtfully constructed and shows the band’s collective experience and their ability to craft songs that, while distinct, remain tied together by an undeniable chemistry.
If Aircutter is any indication, TV Pins are positioning themselves as a band that understands the delicate balance between honouring musical traditions and pushing their own sound forward. There’s an ease in their ability to blend these elements into something that feels authentic, making this debut not just worth a listen but a sign of even bigger things to come.
