Mary In The Junkyard: A Band to Watch
The story of Mary In The Junkyard begins with a spell, a mystical origin story that sets the tone for their unique and captivating music. Lead vocalist and guitarist Clari Freeman-Taylor and viola-bass player Saya Barbaglia, along with drummer David Addison, first came together at a squat following a protest against a Tory police bill in London. It was a chance encounter, but one that sparked something magical. As they shared a slice of tiramisu and coffee, the trio began to weave their musical magic, blending classical music backgrounds with a shared love for storytelling and a desire to create something extraordinary.
Their debut album, 'Role Model Hermit', is a testament to their creative process, which is as much about intuition as it is about technical prowess. The album leans into the space between the fantastical and the everyday, exploring themes of past lives, sacrifice, and the uncertainties of youth. The songs are a blend of intimate confession and ancient fable, with lyrics that teeter between Poseidon-like decrees and primal sentiments. This unique blend of genres and styles is what makes Mary In The Junkyard so captivating.
The band's creative process is a collaborative effort, with each member bringing their own distinct personality and passions to the table. Freeman-Taylor, with her classical music background, adds a sense of discipline and precision to the band's sound. Barbaglia, who trained in martial arts and has a background in classical music, brings a sense of intensity and focus to their performances. Addison, with his blog and gig list, keeps the band grounded and connected to the music scene.
One of the most fascinating aspects of Mary In The Junkyard is their approach to songwriting. They don't start with a clear idea of what they're creating; instead, the songs come out organically, like a sneeze or a fart, as Barbaglia humorously puts it. This intuitive approach extends beyond music, with Freeman-Taylor once dreaming of being a clown, a childhood ambition that has found its way into the band's performances.
The album's artwork, which features Freeman-Taylor dressed as an old fisherman with a mouse on her shoulder, is a visual representation of the band's unique storytelling. The song 'Mouse' is a poignant example of this, as it explores the idea of past lives and the emotional core of the band's music. Freeman-Taylor's imagination, which sees her as a knight with a cut-off arm, adds a layer of depth and complexity to their lyrics.
Mary In The Junkyard's music is a blend of the familiar and the fantastical, with a sense of control and instinct that sets them apart. Their shows are a testament to their connection with the audience, with Freeman-Taylor measuring a good night by the jokes that make people laugh. The band's philosophy, inspired by Sonic Youth and Fugazi, is to create a network of support for other artists, a life practice rather than a transitional performance.
As the band continues to evolve and create, their music remains a testament to their unique and captivating sound. 'Role Model Hermit' is a must-listen for anyone who appreciates the fusion of the fantastical and the everyday, with a sense of intuition and creativity that sets Mary In The Junkyard apart from the rest.
