The Stingrays – My Everything

With a modest 4.4 stars on Google reviews, it’s surprising to think that the original Dom’s Subs sandwich shop on Hackney Road, known for its simple menu of classics, could one day be identified by its connection to a debut album. Yet, new musical project The Stingrays’s debut extended play, My Everything, was recorded during their second studio session, which took place beneath the East London eatery. Formed by musician George Van den Broek, better known as Yellow Days, alongside bassist Hector Delicious and drummer Milo-G – both familiar faces from his touring band – The Stingrays carve out their own niche with their first record. Joined by guitarist The ib, the band’s first release blends classic influences with a distinctive style, creating a fresh and engaging sound.

Described by Hector Delicious as “an ode to the overwhelming effects of love”, the title track sets a compelling tone, enveloping the auditory sense in an ethereal, dreamlike haze. The song merges old-school psychedelia with the soothing warmth of George Harrison’s 70s proto-indie-rock, and its dynamic vocal arrangements, especially the intricate three-part harmonies, heightening its emotional weight for a sound that is both nostalgic and original. Alongside the ballad is a music video that whimsically reimagines the familiar imagery of small-town English life. Its grainy, over-exposed 70s-style aesthetic adds to the track’s time-honoured timbre, while the offbeat narrative sees the trio riding through a quaint village on a three-man bike with equal parts whimsy and mischief, as their repeated, seemingly chance encounters with a mysterious older gentleman add a cinematic layer of intrigue.

Their existentialism-inspired second track, Just a Fish in the Sea, reinforces the EP’s classic charm. Van den Broek’s rich, nuanced vocals are complemented by contemplative guitar riffs and thoughtful lyrics that evocatively capture a wide range of reflections, from pondering one’s place in the vast universe to appreciating the simplicity of life’s small pleasures.

A promising debut from The Stingrays, My Everything demonstrates a deep appreciation for the classics and their own creative flair. This first step toward refining their unique and enduring sound offers both familiarity and novelty for fans of the members’ previous work, hinting at an exciting future.

Christina Yang

My Everything is released on 6^th September 2024. For further information or to order the album visit The Stingrays’s website here.

Watch the video for the single here: