I Can See You - by Paddy Summerfield c. 1986
Showing posts with label Dream Academy. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Dream Academy. Show all posts

Tuesday, October 15, 2024

BUTTERBOY | DREAM ACADEMY : Religion, Revolution & Railways (7 CDs)

 DREAM ACADEMY

Dream Academy - Religion, Revolution & Railways - The Complete Recordings (7 x CDs)


The Dream Academy, a British band formed in the early 1980s, featured the talents of singer/guitarist Nick Laird-Clowes, multi-instrumentalist Kate St John, and keyboardist Gilbert Gabriel. They gained international fame with their hit single “Life in a Northern Town” in 1985, which resonated with audiences worldwide. Their music is a delightful mix of alternative pop, folk rock, and new wave, distinguished by their use of unique instruments like strings, woodwinds, and synthesizers.

The band’s sound was shaped by a diverse range of influences. Pink Floyd’s David Gilmour, who co-produced two of their albums, played a significant role in their musical development. They also drew inspiration from the melancholic and introspective songwriting of Nick Drake, the innovative production techniques of Brian Wilson from The Beach Boys, and the intricate guitar work of Johnny Marr from The Smiths. Although The Dream Academy disbanded in 1991, they left behind a legacy of innovative and captivating music that continues to enchant listeners.

The Dream Academy’s box set, "Religion, Revolution & Railways - The Complete Recordings", is a delightful treasure trove released by Cherry Red Records. This 7CD collection beautifully captures the band’s entire musical journey, featuring their three studio albums, B-sides, remixes, and some never-before-heard tracks. The band’s frontman, Nick Laird-Clowes, personally oversaw the meticulous remastering and compilation, ensuring that this collection is the ultimate representation of their work.

Formed in the early 1980s, The Dream Academy was influenced by a rich tapestry of musical styles and artists. Their sound is a unique blend of alternative pop, folk rock, and new wave. One of their most significant influences was Pink Floyd’s David Gilmour, who co-produced two of their albums and played a crucial role in shaping their sound. The band’s ethereal and pastoral art-pop style also drew inspiration from the likes of Nick Drake, whose melancholic and introspective songwriting left a lasting impact on their music.

The Dream Academy’s music was also shaped by the innovative production techniques of Brian Wilson from The Beach Boys and the intricate guitar work of Johnny Marr from The Smiths. Their collaboration with Lindsey Buckingham and Richard Dashut, known for their work with Fleetwood Mac, further enriched their sonic palette. The band’s use of unconventional instruments such as strings, woodwinds, and synthesizers set them apart from the power pop groups of their time, creating a distinctive soundscape that resonated with audiences worldwide.

In summary, Religion, Revolution & Railways - The Complete Recordings is a celebration of The Dream Academy’s enduring legacy and their ability to blend various musical influences into a cohesive and captivating body of work. This release by Cherry Red Records is a must-have for fans and collectors alike, offering a deep dive into the band’s rich and varied musical journey. (B)


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This is nice and a fun set from Butterboy as per




Speaking of earworms . . . . . .you will know this one
Northern Town - Dream Academy

Sunday, July 18, 2021

SUNDAY MORNING MUSICS

 DREAM ACADEMY

 



 Being from the North of England this always struck a resonance with me and its multicultural vibe I found transportingly lovely. Inspired by Nick Drake ("composed upon Nick's guitar from the album cover   Bryter Layter" which is difficult in that the Guild M-20 featured wasn't Nick's at all but belonged to Nigel Weymouth's the art director and artist, he of Hapsash and The Coloured Coat psychedelic poster genius.  it is most likely that the album featured Nick playing his Martin D-28 or his Levin dreadnought *) and the Dream Academy single was featured by Guy Garvey on his excellent TV programme From The Vaults the other day [Series 2 Episode 3]
JULY 16, 2021

Tonight’s episode of ‘Guy Garvey: From The Vaults’ sees Guy focus on 1985, where overseas stars like Chaka Khan and Tom Waits descend on Newcastle to appear live on The Tube. Guy also looks back at rarely seen performances from Prefab Sprout, Dream Academy, China Crisis and The Style Council. 

Watch on Sky Arts or Freeview Channel 11 at 8pm (Friday 16th July). All episodes are available to sky viewers now.

Please note Guy Garvey is a top fellah and has broken news on his Twitter that fans like me have long awaited and that is there is a new album from the mercurial Stephen Fretwell who I had worried about as he seemed to have disappeared. Fretwell is the performer of the brilliant theme song for Gavin and Stacey so you'd think someone kept tabs on him

I will post a separate note about this as soon as I have bought the new album, buy it now sight unseen, sound unheard it WILL be worth it. . . .