"The Trials of Van Occupanther is now one of the most important modern records I own. In an age of overly-used irony and disconnected nonchalance, this record actually means something, and Midlake should be forever hailed for their unique and genuine approach to music. Simply put, Van Occupanther has backbone, and the fact that you don't feel cheated by it gives one hope that sincerity can still exist within modern alternative music."
Every once in a while, a band comes along that undoubtedly evokes something special. You don’t know what the elusive ingredient is, but you are certain that they belong set apart from amongst the crowd of musical peers in which they lay. You quickly find yourself coming to the foregone conclusion that such a band’s music is to be revered and will remain relevant for some time to come. Midlake not only embodies this idealism in the hearts of many already, but with the introduction of their forthcoming album, ‘The Trials of Van Occupanther’, they are making it a reality.
Midlake formed in the small, quirky Texas town of Denton. There, the five diligent musicians toiled to create a sound that was both pleasing and of their own. They were soon discovered by Bella Union Records owner Cocteau Twins bassist, Simon Raymonde. Simon fell deeply in love with the band, and together they began to cultivate a relationship focused on sharing Midlake’s music with the world. The band worked continuously day and night to create what would become their debut album, a work of incredible vision, talent, dedication and eccentricity: ‘Bamnan and Slivercork’.
Released in June of 2004, ‘Bamnan and Slivercork’ became a instant favorite of critics and fans worldwide. After a series of touring stints, both domestic and abroad, Midlake rapidly found themselves embraced by a much larger fan base than ever before. One notable member of this fan base is skateboarding legend turned actor, Jason Lee (My Name is Earl, Mallrats, Almost Famous, etc.). Jason joined forces with Midlake as a huge supporter, promoter, and collaborator, even directing and filming a video for their single, ‘Balloon Maker’. In June of last year, Midlake appeared with Jason on ‘The Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson’ where they were received with an overflow of wonderful reviews.
Midlake then retreated home to begin work on their next musical venture. With a desire to reach deeper within and accomplish something even stronger than before, Midlake’s determined efforts produced ‘The Trials of Van Occupanther’. Tim Smith, Singer/Songwriter for Midlake says, “Compared to Bamnan and Slivercork, this album uses less keyboards in favor of acoustic guitar, piano, more vocals and electric guitar. The sound is something more related to 70’s folk rock but not in a gimmicky way, hopefully. I have a great affinity for those bands from the 70’s, the music just seems to move me more. So when writing this album of course those sounds came out in the music.â€
With the album now available worldwide, critics are already touting them as a 2007 “Band to Watch". Midlake will indeed further the rapidly growing momentum with an album and a sound that is sure to merit such high expectations...[if !IE] ..[endif]