From the very first notes of By The River, it’s evident that The Crystal Teardrop is not just paying homage to the psychedelic sixties, but carving out their own niche in an ever-evolving musical landscape. Their latest single takes listeners on a dreamlike journey through time, evoking the spirit of 1960s nostalgia while blending it with their brand of acid folk and garage rock.
Following the success of their debut single, Nine Times Nine, the band aims to ‘evoke that “Beatles go to Rishikesh” 1967 vibe’ with a record that further demonstrates their imaginative take on classic 1960s instrumentation and melody, infusing it with a healthy dose of Eastern flavour.
Processed with VSCO with fp8 preset
The track opens with a hypnotic drone-based melody played on the mandola, immediately transporting the listener to a time when music was not just a form of entertainment but a means of spiritual exploration and self-discovery, encapsulating the free-spiritedness of the 1960s with their sound.
Alexandra Rose’s vocals are enchanting, her voice an ethereal thread that weaves through the song’s mysterious narrative, reminiscent of the iconic vocalists such as Grace Slick and Stevie Nicks, while still maintaining a unique quality that is unmistakably her own.
Shimmering guitars, rich textured harmonies, and hypnotic drums create an otherworldly sonic landscape, blurring the line between reality and fantasy as the lyrics explore the ‘profound nature of love, loss and the human condition’. But what sets The Crystal Teardrop apart is their commitment to authenticity. This band is an all-encompassing project born of a real passion for all things 60s. These talented musicians don’t just have a penchant for 60s music, but live and breathe it, from an affinity for vintage fashion – with bassist Caitlin Hare even designing her own vintage clothing line – to Alexandra and keys player Stuart Gray both DJing vinyl with extensive collections sourced from across the globe. Meanwhile, Leon Jones’ previous exploits with Alfa 9 and Connor Wells’ work with fast-rising Formal Sppeedwear contribute their own distinctive flair and wealth of experience to the outfit.
Accompanying the single’s release is a video directed by James Shuker, adding another layer of visual artistry to the band’s creative expression.
By The River is not just a song – it’s a musical time machine that takes us back to a place where creativity knows no bounds. With its kaleidoscopic melodies, profound lyrics, and authentic instrumentation, the track is a testament to the band’s dedication to keeping the spirit of the 1960s alive, certainly succeeding in their mission to summon the spirit of The Beatles in their ‘in India’ era. As they continue to perform and record new material, The Crystal Teardrop is a band to watch for anyone who appreciates the timeless beauty of psychedelic rock.
Listten to By The River by The Crystal Teardrop here:
