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Big Black Delta: Trágame Tierra
Big Black Delta is Jonathan Bates’ solo project. With Trágame Tierra, Bates has created a multi-layered collection of songs that continue to build on his already explosive electronics by adding more icy Scandinavian-leaning beats, near-country acoustic warmth, and more live instrumentation. He’s also going to be embarking on an extensive US tour with support from Sego.
Mellowdrone frontman Jonathan Bates is the brains behind the band Big Black Delta, although you are just as likely to catch him playing with Brian Wilson, M83, Britt Daniel of Spoon, Dhani Harrison and numerous others. But he makes a triumphant return with the Big Black Delta moniker this month with Trágame Tierra, BBD's first album in three years.
It is a dynamic mix of sounds and tones, building off their ear-catching self-titled debut album & moving into another level. Sugary pop confectionary combine both with well-played live instrumentation and darker cutting-edge electronic structures, and all seasoned with a liberal dose of epic 70s classic-rock (with shades of ELO throughout) and 80s New Wave futurism.(possibly inspired by opening for Gary Numan). An unlikely assortment of guests also chime in, from Kimbra to Debbie Gibson, adding to the unique vibe. Bates admits its genesis was difficult: in his own words: