Far Q: Difference between revisions
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{{Infobox album |
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| name = Far Q |
| name = Far Q |
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| released = 29 March 2010 |
| released = 29 March 2010 |
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| recorded = September–October 2009,<br/>Hertfordshire |
| recorded = September–October 2009,<br />Hertfordshire |
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While at university, Duce wrote the majority of songs that would feature on ''Far Q'',<ref name=Patashnik62/> which were later credited to the band as a whole.<ref name=FarQbooklet/> Duce wrote about his life experiences in Watford, such as working on building sites, going to the pub and relationships.<ref name=Bryant46/> "Eating Is Cheating" features references to bars and clubs in Watford.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.watfordobserver.co.uk/news/10631854.Watford_band_Lower_Than_Atlantis_play_Reading_and_Leeds_festivals_this_weekend/|title=Watford band Lower Than Atlantis play Reading and Leeds festivals this weekend|author=Moorhead, Rosy|work=Watford Observer|publisher=Newsquest Media Group|date=23 August 2013|accessdate=5 May 2018|url-status=live|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20180505210426/http://www.watfordobserver.co.uk/news/10631854.Watford_band_Lower_Than_Atlantis_play_Reading_and_Leeds_festivals_this_weekend/|archivedate=5 May 2018}}</ref> Ben Patashnik of ''[[Rock Sound]]'' described the album as taking "their first steps into more melodic territory", while at the same time keeping "the hard, gritty edge" of ''Bretton''.<ref name=Patashnik62/> The album's sound has been described as [[melodic hardcore]],<ref name=RockSound/> [[post-hardcore]],<ref name=BBCWR>{{cite web |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/music/reviews/rwvh |title=BBC - Music - Review of Lower Than Atlantis - World Record |author=Rauf, Raziq |date=2011 |work=bbc.co.uk |accessdate=6 July 2015 |url-status=live |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20150706040700/http://www.bbc.co.uk/music/reviews/rwvh |archivedate=6 July 2015 }}</ref> and [[punk rock]].<ref name=AMWR>{{cite web|url=http://www.allmusic.com/album/world-record-mw0002120268|title=World Record - Lower than Atlantis - Songs, Reviews, Credits, Awards - AllMusic|author=Ruhlmann, William|work=AllMusic|accessdate=6 July 2015|url-status=live|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20141019122230/http://www.allmusic.com/album/world-record-mw0002120268|archivedate=19 October 2014}}</ref> |
While at university, Duce wrote the majority of songs that would feature on ''Far Q'',<ref name=Patashnik62/> which were later credited to the band as a whole.<ref name=FarQbooklet/> Duce wrote about his life experiences in Watford, such as working on building sites, going to the pub and relationships.<ref name=Bryant46/> "Eating Is Cheating" features references to bars and clubs in Watford.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.watfordobserver.co.uk/news/10631854.Watford_band_Lower_Than_Atlantis_play_Reading_and_Leeds_festivals_this_weekend/|title=Watford band Lower Than Atlantis play Reading and Leeds festivals this weekend|author=Moorhead, Rosy|work=Watford Observer|publisher=Newsquest Media Group|date=23 August 2013|accessdate=5 May 2018|url-status=live|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20180505210426/http://www.watfordobserver.co.uk/news/10631854.Watford_band_Lower_Than_Atlantis_play_Reading_and_Leeds_festivals_this_weekend/|archivedate=5 May 2018}}</ref> Ben Patashnik of ''[[Rock Sound]]'' described the album as taking "their first steps into more melodic territory", while at the same time keeping "the hard, gritty edge" of ''Bretton''.<ref name=Patashnik62/> The album's sound has been described as [[melodic hardcore]],<ref name=RockSound/> [[post-hardcore]],<ref name=BBCWR>{{cite web |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/music/reviews/rwvh |title=BBC - Music - Review of Lower Than Atlantis - World Record |author=Rauf, Raziq |date=2011 |work=bbc.co.uk |accessdate=6 July 2015 |url-status=live |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20150706040700/http://www.bbc.co.uk/music/reviews/rwvh |archivedate=6 July 2015 }}</ref> and [[punk rock]].<ref name=AMWR>{{cite web|url=http://www.allmusic.com/album/world-record-mw0002120268|title=World Record - Lower than Atlantis - Songs, Reviews, Credits, Awards - AllMusic|author=Ruhlmann, William|work=AllMusic|accessdate=6 July 2015|url-status=live|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20141019122230/http://www.allmusic.com/album/world-record-mw0002120268|archivedate=19 October 2014}}</ref> |
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Shortly afterwards, the pair found themselves without a drummer.<ref name=Patashnik62/> Duce called Sansom, asking "Why does everyone keep leaving the band?!".<ref name=Patashnik62/> They soon remember drummer Eddy Thrower from We Stare at Mirrors. They called him, asking he if would like to partake in a practice session.<ref name=Patashnik62/> Thrower, who was unhappy with his time at university<ref name=MD4183>{{cite web|url=http://www.mikedolbear.com/story.asp?StoryID=4183|title=Interview with Eddy Thrower - Lower Than Atlantis|work=Mike Dolbear Drums|author=Miorin, Tobias |date=December 2015|accessdate=5 May 2018|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20170201122649/http://www.mikedolbear.com/story.asp?StoryID=4183|archivedate=1 February 2017 |
Shortly afterwards, the pair found themselves without a drummer.<ref name=Patashnik62/> Duce called Sansom, asking "Why does everyone keep leaving [the band]?!".<ref name=Patashnik62/> They soon remember drummer Eddy Thrower from We Stare at Mirrors. They called him, asking he if would like to partake in a practice session.<ref name=Patashnik62/> Thrower, who was unhappy with his time at university<ref name=MD4183>{{cite web|url=http://www.mikedolbear.com/story.asp?StoryID=4183|title=Interview with Eddy Thrower - Lower Than Atlantis|work=Mike Dolbear Drums|author=Miorin, Tobias |date=December 2015|accessdate=5 May 2018|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20170201122649/http://www.mikedolbear.com/story.asp?StoryID=4183|archivedate=1 February 2017}}</ref> and with the band he was in, accepted the offer.<ref name=MR1/> Thrower fit in quickly, resulting in the trio writing "Far Q".<ref name=Patashnik62/> Duce explained the band "never worked with a good drummer before. [With Thrower, i]t was... nice."<ref name=Patashnik62/> Duce and Sansom previously created demos with programmed drums.<ref name=MRAR>{{cite web|url=http://www.musicradar.com/rhythm/interview-album-report-from-lower-than-atlantis-247600|title=INTERVIEW: Album report from Lower Than Atlantis|author=Chamberlain, Richard|work=MusicRadar|publisher=Future plc|date=7 April 2010|accessdate=13 July 2015|url-status=live|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20150713183154/http://www.musicradar.com/rhythm/interview-album-report-from-lower-than-atlantis-247600|archivedate=13 July 2015}}</ref> Thrower initially learned the songs as they were but began changing the drum parts after a few practices.<ref name=MRAR/> He used a [[double bass pedal]] for a lot of [[Fill (music)|fills]].<ref>Chamberlain 2012, p. 60</ref> |
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''Far Q'' was recorded in a room above a printing factory in [[Hertfordshire]] between September and October 2009.<ref name=FarQbooklet/> The band were originally supposed to be on tour during September and October,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.alterthepress.com/2009/08/flood-of-red-uk-tour-update.html|title=Alter The Press!: Flood Of Red UK Tour Update|author=Reid, Sean|work=Alter the Press!|publisher=SpinMedia|date=19 August 2009|accessdate=11 July 2015|url-status=live|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20150712145625/http://www.alterthepress.com/2009/08/flood-of-red-uk-tour-update.html|archivedate=12 July 2015}}</ref> but had to cancel plans when their bass player left.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.alterthepress.com/2009/09/lower-than-atlantis-pull-out-of-flood.html|title=Alter The Press!: Lower Than Atlantis Pull Out of Flood of Red Tour|author=Reid, Sean|work=Alter the Press!|publisher=SpinMedia|date=28 September 2009|accessdate=11 July 2015|url-status=live|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20150712152645/http://www.alterthepress.com/2009/09/lower-than-atlantis-pull-out-of-flood.html|archivedate=12 July 2015}}</ref> The album was produced by Daniel Lancaster, who also engineered and mixed it.<ref name=FarQbooklet/>{{#tag:ref|Lancaster would later work with the band on ''[[Lower Than Atlantis (album)|Lower Than Atlantis]]'' (2014), which he produced and mixed.<ref name=LTAbooklet>{{cite AV media notes|title=Lower Than Atlantis |others=[[Lower Than Atlantis]] |year=2014 |type=Booklet |publisher=[[Sony Music Entertainment]] |id=88843090462}}</ref>|group="nb"}} The band had known Lancaster since they formed.<ref>{{cite interview|subject=Lower Than Atlantis|title=hmv.com talks to Mike Duce from Lower Than Atlantis|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QSeiQ4R3eNE|date=8 October 2014|accessdate=31 August 2015|at=For knowing Lancaster: 2:36–39|url-status=live|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20160324165137/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QSeiQ4R3eNE|archivedate=24 March 2016}}</ref> Lancaster would constantly push Thrower to get a good drum sound to the extent where he was screaming in Thrower's face.<ref name=MRAR/> Duce played bass on the album while Lancaster has guest vocals on "A/S/L?".<ref name=FarQbooklet/> The album was mastered by Alan Douches at West West Side Music in [[New Windsor, New York]] in November.<ref name=FarQbooklet/> |
''Far Q'' was recorded in a room above a printing factory in [[Hertfordshire]] between September and October 2009.<ref name=FarQbooklet/> The band were originally supposed to be on tour during September and October,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.alterthepress.com/2009/08/flood-of-red-uk-tour-update.html|title=Alter The Press!: Flood Of Red UK Tour Update|author=Reid, Sean|work=Alter the Press!|publisher=SpinMedia|date=19 August 2009|accessdate=11 July 2015|url-status=live|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20150712145625/http://www.alterthepress.com/2009/08/flood-of-red-uk-tour-update.html|archivedate=12 July 2015}}</ref> but had to cancel plans when their bass player left.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.alterthepress.com/2009/09/lower-than-atlantis-pull-out-of-flood.html|title=Alter The Press!: Lower Than Atlantis Pull Out of Flood of Red Tour|author=Reid, Sean|work=Alter the Press!|publisher=SpinMedia|date=28 September 2009|accessdate=11 July 2015|url-status=live|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20150712152645/http://www.alterthepress.com/2009/09/lower-than-atlantis-pull-out-of-flood.html|archivedate=12 July 2015}}</ref> The album was produced by Daniel Lancaster, who also engineered and mixed it.<ref name=FarQbooklet/>{{#tag:ref|Lancaster would later work with the band on ''[[Lower Than Atlantis (album)|Lower Than Atlantis]]'' (2014), which he produced and mixed.<ref name=LTAbooklet>{{cite AV media notes|title=Lower Than Atlantis |others=[[Lower Than Atlantis]] |year=2014 |type=Booklet |publisher=[[Sony Music Entertainment]] |id=88843090462}}</ref>|group="nb"}} The band had known Lancaster since they formed.<ref>{{cite interview|subject=Lower Than Atlantis|title=hmv.com talks to Mike Duce from Lower Than Atlantis|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QSeiQ4R3eNE|date=8 October 2014|accessdate=31 August 2015|at=For knowing Lancaster: 2:36–39|url-status=live|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20160324165137/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QSeiQ4R3eNE|archivedate=24 March 2016}}</ref> Lancaster would constantly push Thrower to get a good drum sound to the extent where he was screaming in Thrower's face.<ref name=MRAR/> Duce played bass on the album while Lancaster has guest vocals on "A/S/L?".<ref name=FarQbooklet/> The album was mastered by Alan Douches at West West Side Music in [[New Windsor, New York]] in November.<ref name=FarQbooklet/> |
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==Release== |
==Release== |
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On 14 February 2010, "I'm Not Bulimic (I Just Wanted to See How Far I Could Stick My Fingers Down My Throat)" was made available for streaming via the band's Myspace profile.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.alterthepress.com/2010/02/new-lower-than-atlantis-song.html|title=Alter The Press!: New Lower Than Atlantis Song|author=Reid, Sean|work=Alter the Press!|publisher=SpinMedia|date=14 February 2010|accessdate=11 July 2015|url-status=live|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20150712170202/http://www.alterthepress.com/2010/02/new-lower-than-atlantis-song.html|archivedate=12 July 2015}}</ref> The music video for "Taping Songs Off the Radio" was released on 17 February,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.rocksound.tv/videos/watch/lower-than-atlantis-taping-songs-off-the-radio|title=Lower Than Atlantis - Taping Songs Off The Radio|work=Rock Sound Magazine|date=17 February 2010|accessdate=17 May 2015|url-status=live|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20150517002925/http://www.rocksound.tv/videos/watch/lower-than-atlantis-taping-songs-off-the-radio|archivedate=17 May 2015}}</ref> and the song released as a single on 1 March with "I'm Not Bulimic (I Just Wanted to See How Far I Could Stick My Fingers Down My Throat)" as the B-side.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/taping-songs-off-the-radio/id350551797|title=iTunes - Music - Taping Songs Off the Radio by Lower Than Atlantis|work=iTunes|accessdate=17 May 2015|url-status=live|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20150518103044/https://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/taping-songs-off-the-radio/id350551797|archivedate=18 May 2015}}</ref> ''Far Q'' was released on 29 March 2010 through independent label A Wolf at Your Door Records.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/far-q/id352169272|title=Far Q by Lower Than Atlantis|work=iTunes|accessdate=18 September 2015|url-status=live|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20150918090042/https://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/far-q/id352169272|archivedate=18 September 2015}}</ref> German label [[Redfield Records|Redfield]] released a mediabook edition of the CD and a vinyl version of the album; the mediabook was limited to 1,000 copies while the vinyl was limited to 500 copies.<ref name=redfield>{{cite web|url=http://www.redfield-records.de/download/infos/LTA_2010_eng.pdf|title=Lower Than Atlantis|work=redfield-records.de|accessdate=7 July 2015|url-status=dead|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20150517010638/http://www.redfield-records.de/download/infos/LTA_2010_eng.pdf|archivedate=17 May 2015}}</ref> The album's artwork was created by Alex Gregory and Jon Bamby.<ref name=FarQbooklet/> The pair also contributed the design, while Gregory provided photography and Bamby did the layout.<ref name=FarQbooklet/> Due to their frequent line-up changes in the past, the band's initial plan was to have temporary bass players. However, shortly after the release of ''Far Q'', Declan Hart joined the group.<ref name=Patashnik62/> |
On 14 February 2010, "I'm Not Bulimic (I Just Wanted to See How Far I Could Stick My Fingers Down My Throat)" was made available for streaming via the band's Myspace profile.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.alterthepress.com/2010/02/new-lower-than-atlantis-song.html|title=Alter The Press!: New Lower Than Atlantis Song|author=Reid, Sean|work=Alter the Press!|publisher=SpinMedia|date=14 February 2010|accessdate=11 July 2015|url-status=live|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20150712170202/http://www.alterthepress.com/2010/02/new-lower-than-atlantis-song.html|archivedate=12 July 2015}}</ref> The music video for "Taping Songs Off the Radio" was released on 17 February,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.rocksound.tv/videos/watch/lower-than-atlantis-taping-songs-off-the-radio|title=Lower Than Atlantis - Taping Songs Off The Radio|work=Rock Sound Magazine|date=17 February 2010|accessdate=17 May 2015|url-status=live|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20150517002925/http://www.rocksound.tv/videos/watch/lower-than-atlantis-taping-songs-off-the-radio|archivedate=17 May 2015}}</ref> and the song released as a single on 1 March with "I'm Not Bulimic (I Just Wanted to See How Far I Could Stick My Fingers Down My Throat)" as the B-side.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/taping-songs-off-the-radio/id350551797|title=iTunes - Music - Taping Songs Off the Radio by Lower Than Atlantis|work=iTunes|accessdate=17 May 2015|url-status=live|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20150518103044/https://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/taping-songs-off-the-radio/id350551797|archivedate=18 May 2015}}</ref> ''Far Q'' was released on 29 March 2010 through independent label A Wolf at Your Door Records.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/far-q/id352169272|title=Far Q by Lower Than Atlantis|work=iTunes|accessdate=18 September 2015|url-status=live|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20150918090042/https://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/far-q/id352169272|archivedate=18 September 2015}}</ref> German label [[Redfield Records|Redfield]] released a [[mediabook]] edition of the CD and a vinyl version of the album; the mediabook was limited to 1,000 copies while the vinyl was limited to 500 copies.<ref name=redfield>{{cite web|url=http://www.redfield-records.de/download/infos/LTA_2010_eng.pdf|title=Lower Than Atlantis|work=redfield-records.de|accessdate=7 July 2015|url-status=dead|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20150517010638/http://www.redfield-records.de/download/infos/LTA_2010_eng.pdf|archivedate=17 May 2015}}</ref> The album's artwork was created by Alex Gregory and Jon Bamby.<ref name=FarQbooklet/> The pair also contributed the design, while Gregory provided photography and Bamby did the layout.<ref name=FarQbooklet/> Due to their frequent line-up changes in the past, the band's initial plan was to have temporary bass players. However, shortly after the release of ''Far Q'', Declan Hart joined the group.<ref name=Patashnik62/> |
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Hart, who was a guitarist at the time, subsequently purchased a bass.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.times-series.co.uk/news/16128335.Lower_Than_Atlantis_return_for_homecoming_gig/|title=Lower Than Atlantis feel the pressure of UK tour|author=Lacey-Davidson, Mattie|work=Times|publisher=Newsquest Media Group|date=30 March 2018|accessdate=5 May 2018|url-status=live|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20180505205336/http://www.times-series.co.uk/news/16128335.Lower_Than_Atlantis_return_for_homecoming_gig/|archivedate=5 May 2018}}</ref> Previously, the band frequently gave Hart a lift to places. Duce explained, Hart "would show up, drink all our rider and get wasted. We were like, 'We like this guy!'"<ref name=Patashnik62/> Around this time, the group were having problems with their label. Hart explained: "They didn't understand us or what we were doing. We had a punk ethic".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.swindonadvertiser.co.uk/summer_festivals/15237793.Adver_chat__Dec_Hart__bass_player_with_Lower_Than_Atlantis__on_punk_ethics/|title=Lower Than Atlantis stay true to punk ethics|author=Harrison, Flicky|work=Swindon Advertiser|publisher=Newsquest Media Group|date=2018|accessdate=5 May 2018|url-status=live|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20180505210314/http://www.swindonadvertiser.co.uk/summer_festivals/15237793.Adver_chat__Dec_Hart__bass_player_with_Lower_Than_Atlantis__on_punk_ethics/|archivedate=5 May 2018}}</ref> In addition, the members quit their jobs<ref name=MR1/> and began to focus on the band full-time.<ref name=MD4183/> Lower Than Atlantis supported [[I Am Ghost]] on their tour of the UK in May.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.alterthepress.com/2010/03/i-am-ghost-leeds-show-moved.html|title=Alter The Press!: I Am Ghost Leeds Show Moved|author=Reid, Sean|work=Alter the Press!|publisher=SpinMedia|date=1 March 2010|accessdate=11 July 2015|url-status=live|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20150712173151/http://www.alterthepress.com/2010/03/i-am-ghost-leeds-show-moved.html|archivedate=12 July 2015}}</ref> The band toured the UK between June and August.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.alterthepress.com/2010/06/lower-than-atlantis-uk-dates.html|title=Alter The Press!: Lower Than Atlantis UK Dates|author=Reid, Sean|work=Alter the Press!|publisher=SpinMedia|date=16 June 2010|accessdate=11 July 2015|url-status=live|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20150712165418/http://www.alterthepress.com/2010/06/lower-than-atlantis-uk-dates.html|archivedate=12 July 2015}}</ref> The music video for "Far Q" was released on 6 July,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.rocksound.tv/videos/watch/lower-than-atlantis-far-q|title=Lower Than Atlantis - Far Q|work=Rock Sound Magazine|date=6 July 2010|accessdate=17 May 2015|url-status=live|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20150517002924/http://www.rocksound.tv/videos/watch/lower-than-atlantis-far-q|archivedate=17 May 2015}}</ref> and the single was released on 19 July with "Mike Duce's Symphony No.11 in D Minor" as the B-side.<ref name=FarQsingle>{{cite AV media notes|title=Far Q |others=[[Lower Than Atlantis]] |year=2010 |type=Sleeve |publisher=A Wolf at Your Door |id=none}}</ref> The band toured with TRC on the This Is England Tour in September.<ref name=ATP2010>{{cite web|url=http://www.alterthepress.com/2010/09/lower-than-atlantis-uk-and-european.html|title=Alter The Press!: Lower Than Atlantis UK and European Tour Dates|author=Reid, Sean|work=Alter the Press!|publisher=SpinMedia|date=2 September 2010|accessdate=11 July 2015|url-status=live|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20150712191154/http://www.alterthepress.com/2010/09/lower-than-atlantis-uk-and-european.html|archivedate=12 July 2015}}</ref> The band toured the UK as part of Rock Sound Presents... Powered by Fender tour in September and October, alongside [[Architects (British band)|Architects]], [[Norma Jean (band)|Norma Jean]] and [[Devil Sold His Soul]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.rocksound.tv/news/read/final-band-announced-for-rock-sound-presents-powered-by-fender-tour|title=Final Band Announced For Rock Sound Presents… Powered By Fender Tour|work=Rock Sound Magazine|date=22 July 2010|accessdate=17 May 2015|url-status=live|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20150517002924/http://www.rocksound.tv/news/read/final-band-announced-for-rock-sound-presents-powered-by-fender-tour|archivedate=17 May 2015}}</ref> ''Rock Sound'' predicted the band's popularity would increase following the tour.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.rocksound.tv/features/read/lower-than-atlantis-five-reasons-to-be-excited|title=Lower Than Atlantis - Five Reasons To Be Excited|work=Rock Sound Magazine|author=Patashnik, Ben|date=27 September 2010|accessdate=6 July 2015|url-status=live|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20150708082609/http://www.rocksound.tv/features/read/lower-than-atlantis-five-reasons-to-be-excited|archivedate=8 July 2015}}</ref> |
Hart, who was a guitarist at the time, subsequently purchased a bass.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.times-series.co.uk/news/16128335.Lower_Than_Atlantis_return_for_homecoming_gig/|title=Lower Than Atlantis feel the pressure of UK tour|author=Lacey-Davidson, Mattie|work=Times|publisher=Newsquest Media Group|date=30 March 2018|accessdate=5 May 2018|url-status=live|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20180505205336/http://www.times-series.co.uk/news/16128335.Lower_Than_Atlantis_return_for_homecoming_gig/|archivedate=5 May 2018}}</ref> Previously, the band frequently gave Hart a lift to places. Duce explained, Hart "would show up, drink all our rider and get wasted. We were like, 'We like this guy!'"<ref name=Patashnik62/> Around this time, the group were having problems with their label. Hart explained: "They didn't understand us or what we were doing. We had a punk ethic".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.swindonadvertiser.co.uk/summer_festivals/15237793.Adver_chat__Dec_Hart__bass_player_with_Lower_Than_Atlantis__on_punk_ethics/|title=Lower Than Atlantis stay true to punk ethics|author=Harrison, Flicky|work=Swindon Advertiser|publisher=Newsquest Media Group|date=2018|accessdate=5 May 2018|url-status=live|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20180505210314/http://www.swindonadvertiser.co.uk/summer_festivals/15237793.Adver_chat__Dec_Hart__bass_player_with_Lower_Than_Atlantis__on_punk_ethics/|archivedate=5 May 2018}}</ref> In addition, the members quit their jobs<ref name=MR1/> and began to focus on the band full-time.<ref name=MD4183/> Lower Than Atlantis supported [[I Am Ghost]] on their tour of the UK in May.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.alterthepress.com/2010/03/i-am-ghost-leeds-show-moved.html|title=Alter The Press!: I Am Ghost Leeds Show Moved|author=Reid, Sean|work=Alter the Press!|publisher=SpinMedia|date=1 March 2010|accessdate=11 July 2015|url-status=live|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20150712173151/http://www.alterthepress.com/2010/03/i-am-ghost-leeds-show-moved.html|archivedate=12 July 2015}}</ref> The band toured the UK between June and August.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.alterthepress.com/2010/06/lower-than-atlantis-uk-dates.html|title=Alter The Press!: Lower Than Atlantis UK Dates|author=Reid, Sean|work=Alter the Press!|publisher=SpinMedia|date=16 June 2010|accessdate=11 July 2015|url-status=live|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20150712165418/http://www.alterthepress.com/2010/06/lower-than-atlantis-uk-dates.html|archivedate=12 July 2015}}</ref> The music video for "Far Q" was released on 6 July,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.rocksound.tv/videos/watch/lower-than-atlantis-far-q|title=Lower Than Atlantis - Far Q|work=Rock Sound Magazine|date=6 July 2010|accessdate=17 May 2015|url-status=live|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20150517002924/http://www.rocksound.tv/videos/watch/lower-than-atlantis-far-q|archivedate=17 May 2015}}</ref> and the single was released on 19 July with "Mike Duce's Symphony No.11 in D Minor" as the B-side.<ref name=FarQsingle>{{cite AV media notes|title=Far Q |others=[[Lower Than Atlantis]] |year=2010 |type=Sleeve |publisher=A Wolf at Your Door |id=none}}</ref> The band toured with TRC on the This Is England Tour in September.<ref name=ATP2010>{{cite web|url=http://www.alterthepress.com/2010/09/lower-than-atlantis-uk-and-european.html|title=Alter The Press!: Lower Than Atlantis UK and European Tour Dates|author=Reid, Sean|work=Alter the Press!|publisher=SpinMedia|date=2 September 2010|accessdate=11 July 2015|url-status=live|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20150712191154/http://www.alterthepress.com/2010/09/lower-than-atlantis-uk-and-european.html|archivedate=12 July 2015}}</ref> The band toured the UK as part of Rock Sound Presents... Powered by Fender tour in September and October, alongside [[Architects (British band)|Architects]], [[Norma Jean (band)|Norma Jean]] and [[Devil Sold His Soul]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.rocksound.tv/news/read/final-band-announced-for-rock-sound-presents-powered-by-fender-tour|title=Final Band Announced For Rock Sound Presents… Powered By Fender Tour|work=Rock Sound Magazine|date=22 July 2010|accessdate=17 May 2015|url-status=live|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20150517002924/http://www.rocksound.tv/news/read/final-band-announced-for-rock-sound-presents-powered-by-fender-tour|archivedate=17 May 2015}}</ref> ''Rock Sound'' predicted the band's popularity would increase following the tour.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.rocksound.tv/features/read/lower-than-atlantis-five-reasons-to-be-excited|title=Lower Than Atlantis - Five Reasons To Be Excited|work=Rock Sound Magazine|author=Patashnik, Ben|date=27 September 2010|accessdate=6 July 2015|url-status=live|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20150708082609/http://www.rocksound.tv/features/read/lower-than-atlantis-five-reasons-to-be-excited|archivedate=8 July 2015}}</ref> |
Latest revision as of 00:13, 4 January 2024
Far Q | ||||
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Studio album by | ||||
Released | 29 March 2010 | |||
Recorded | September–October 2009, Hertfordshire | |||
Genre | Melodic hardcore, post-hardcore, punk rock | |||
Length | 40:15 | |||
Label | A Wolf at Your Door | |||
Producer | Daniel Lancaster | |||
Lower Than Atlantis chronology | ||||
| ||||
Singles from Far Q | ||||
|
Far Q is the debut studio album by British rock band Lower Than Atlantis. Following multiple line-up changes, the band gained drummer Eddy Thrower before starting work on Far Q. The album was recorded above a printing factory in Hertfordshire between September and November 2009 with producer Daniel Lancaster. "Taping Songs Off the Radio" was released as a single in early March 2010 with Far Q following later that month. It was released through A Wolf at Your Door Records. A vinyl edition was released by German label Redfield. The album was critically lauded upon release. "Far Q" was released as a single in mid-July. In September and October, the band toured the UK on the Rock Sound Presents... Powered by Fender with Architects, Norma Jean and Devil Sold His Soul.
Background
[edit]Lower Than Atlantis formed in 2007 while the members were attending college.[1] Guitarist Ben Sansom asked guitarist Mike Duce if he wished to form a band with Ben's brother Luke, who would provide vocals.[2] Alongside them was bassist Richard Wilkinson and drummer Matt Britz.[3] Following line-up changes,[2] such as the addition of drummer Josh Pickett, bassist Stephen Minter,[4] and Duce becoming the band's frontman,[5] they began working on what would become their first EP, Bretton.[2]
Duce taught himself how to sing and play guitar at the same time while playing along to the band's Demo 2007 release.[6] Bretton was released in December 2008.[7] Partway through the touring cycle for the EP, the band had further line-up changes.[8] In June 2009, the band toured with We Stare at Mirrors.[6] Through this tour, drummer Eddy Thrower met Duce and Sansom.[9] We Stare at Mirrors bassist Declan Hart "thought Lower Than Atlantis were meth-heads. Their reputation was just mental."[6] Luke Sansom re-joined on bass, before leaving a second time.[10]
Composition and recording
[edit]While at university, Duce wrote the majority of songs that would feature on Far Q,[6] which were later credited to the band as a whole.[11] Duce wrote about his life experiences in Watford, such as working on building sites, going to the pub and relationships.[12] "Eating Is Cheating" features references to bars and clubs in Watford.[13] Ben Patashnik of Rock Sound described the album as taking "their first steps into more melodic territory", while at the same time keeping "the hard, gritty edge" of Bretton.[6] The album's sound has been described as melodic hardcore,[14] post-hardcore,[15] and punk rock.[16]
Shortly afterwards, the pair found themselves without a drummer.[6] Duce called Sansom, asking "Why does everyone keep leaving [the band]?!".[6] They soon remember drummer Eddy Thrower from We Stare at Mirrors. They called him, asking he if would like to partake in a practice session.[6] Thrower, who was unhappy with his time at university[17] and with the band he was in, accepted the offer.[10] Thrower fit in quickly, resulting in the trio writing "Far Q".[6] Duce explained the band "never worked with a good drummer before. [With Thrower, i]t was... nice."[6] Duce and Sansom previously created demos with programmed drums.[18] Thrower initially learned the songs as they were but began changing the drum parts after a few practices.[18] He used a double bass pedal for a lot of fills.[19]
Far Q was recorded in a room above a printing factory in Hertfordshire between September and October 2009.[11] The band were originally supposed to be on tour during September and October,[20] but had to cancel plans when their bass player left.[21] The album was produced by Daniel Lancaster, who also engineered and mixed it.[11][nb 1] The band had known Lancaster since they formed.[23] Lancaster would constantly push Thrower to get a good drum sound to the extent where he was screaming in Thrower's face.[18] Duce played bass on the album while Lancaster has guest vocals on "A/S/L?".[11] The album was mastered by Alan Douches at West West Side Music in New Windsor, New York in November.[11]
Release
[edit]On 14 February 2010, "I'm Not Bulimic (I Just Wanted to See How Far I Could Stick My Fingers Down My Throat)" was made available for streaming via the band's Myspace profile.[24] The music video for "Taping Songs Off the Radio" was released on 17 February,[25] and the song released as a single on 1 March with "I'm Not Bulimic (I Just Wanted to See How Far I Could Stick My Fingers Down My Throat)" as the B-side.[26] Far Q was released on 29 March 2010 through independent label A Wolf at Your Door Records.[27] German label Redfield released a mediabook edition of the CD and a vinyl version of the album; the mediabook was limited to 1,000 copies while the vinyl was limited to 500 copies.[8] The album's artwork was created by Alex Gregory and Jon Bamby.[11] The pair also contributed the design, while Gregory provided photography and Bamby did the layout.[11] Due to their frequent line-up changes in the past, the band's initial plan was to have temporary bass players. However, shortly after the release of Far Q, Declan Hart joined the group.[6]
Hart, who was a guitarist at the time, subsequently purchased a bass.[28] Previously, the band frequently gave Hart a lift to places. Duce explained, Hart "would show up, drink all our rider and get wasted. We were like, 'We like this guy!'"[6] Around this time, the group were having problems with their label. Hart explained: "They didn't understand us or what we were doing. We had a punk ethic".[29] In addition, the members quit their jobs[10] and began to focus on the band full-time.[17] Lower Than Atlantis supported I Am Ghost on their tour of the UK in May.[30] The band toured the UK between June and August.[31] The music video for "Far Q" was released on 6 July,[32] and the single was released on 19 July with "Mike Duce's Symphony No.11 in D Minor" as the B-side.[33] The band toured with TRC on the This Is England Tour in September.[34] The band toured the UK as part of Rock Sound Presents... Powered by Fender tour in September and October, alongside Architects, Norma Jean and Devil Sold His Soul.[35] Rock Sound predicted the band's popularity would increase following the tour.[36]
As part of their 2019 3-date farewell tour, the band released 300 limited edition vinyl pressings of the album (100 per night).
Reception and legacy
[edit]Review scores | |
---|---|
Source | Rating |
Alter the Press! | 3/5[37] |
Clash | Favorable[38] |
Dead Press! | [39] |
The Line of Best Fit | Favourable[40] |
Ox-Fanzine | [41] |
Rock Sound | 8/10[14] |
Thrash Hits | 3/6[42] |
Far Q was critically acclaimed upon release.[43] Alter the Press! reviewer Sean Reid said Far Q was the band's attempt at standing out in a big pool of other UK hardcore bands.[37] Reid noted that the album is "Filled with energy and passion" from the beginning and are able to show their honesty with "social[ly]-aware lyrics".[37] He mentioned that the band have a good balance of "hardcore brutality" and good melodies.[37] Johnskibeat of The Line of Best Fit noted that the album is inspired by "90′s grunge, rock and punk-pop bands" and that the band have a strong habit of "ting dirty, aggressive music".[40] Johnskibeat said the album follows a "re-energised" band "delving into the gritty subjects of recession, unemployment and a disenchanted youth."[40] Tomas Doyle of Thrash Hits said he was unable to "fully enjoy this record", regardless of the "musical proficiency," due to the lyrics being "THAT bad."[42]
Reviewing the album for Rock Sound, reviewer Richard Cartey said the band's "maturity [went] beyond expectations".[14] Cartey noted that pushing melodic hardcore's boundaries in terms of music and lyrics helps the album's appeal.[14] Cartey also said that Duce's vocals fit "perfectly" to the material.[14] Tristan Parker of Clash said the band managed to create "very worthy, out-and-out gritty rock" album, complete with "pleasingly jagged riffs".[38] Parker noted the "underlying technical complexity and [...] nice melodies" show off the band's "genuinely impressive musicianship".[38]
Dead Press! featured it as number 13 on their best albums of the year list.[44] In a Rock Sound interview in February 2011, Duce said that half of the material on the album was "blink-and-you'll-miss-it [moments]."[45] Looking back in a Kerrang! interview in August 2011 Duce thought the album was "too personal" and likened the lyrics to "airing my dirty laundry".[12] "Far Q" has since remained a staple of the band's live performances.[6]
Track listing
[edit]All music written and arranged by Lower Than Atlantis. All lyrics by Michael Duce.[11]
- "Far Q" – 4:12
- "B.O.R.E.D" – 1:50
- "Taping Songs Off the Radio" – 2:50
- "I'm Not Bulimic (I Just Wanted to See How Far I Could Stick My Fingers Down My Throat)" – 4:47
- "Eating Is Cheating" – 3:22
- "No Belts" – 3:37
- "Face Full of Scars" – 3:24
- "A/S/L?" – 2:39
- "Down with the Kids" – 3:48
- "Yo Music Scene, What Happened?" – 3:19
- "Mike Duce's Symphony No.11 in D Minor" – 3:09
- "Extra! Extra! Read All About It!" – 3:30
Personnel
[edit]Personnel per booklet.[11]
Lower Than Atlantis
Additional musician
|
Production
|
References
[edit]Footnotes
- ^ Lancaster would later work with the band on Lower Than Atlantis (2014), which he produced and mixed.[22]
Citations
- ^ Mursong 2009, p. 12
- ^ a b c Patashnik 2013, p. 60
- ^ "Yourspace Lower Than Atlantis". Hemel Gazette. Premier Newspapers. 26 October 2007. Archived from the original on 8 December 2015. Retrieved 27 November 2015.
- ^ Bretton (Booklet). Lower Than Atlantis. Thirty Days of Night. 2008. TDON029.
{{cite AV media notes}}
: CS1 maint: others in cite AV media (notes) (link) - ^ Patashnik 2013, p. 61
- ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m Patashnik 2013, p. 62
- ^ "iTunes - Music - Bretton by Lower Than Atlantis". itunes.com. Archived from the original on 22 December 2012. Retrieved 16 May 2015.
- ^ a b "Lower Than Atlantis" (PDF). redfield-records.de. Archived from the original (PDF) on 17 May 2015. Retrieved 7 July 2015.
- ^ Robbins, Nick (13 April 2015). "Eddy Thrower, Lower Than Atlantis: Making Waves". iDrum. p. 1. Archived from the original on 10 August 2015. Retrieved 10 August 2015.
- ^ a b c Burke, Chris (3 March 2017). "Eddy Thrower talks becoming a UK drum hero, One Direction pop sessions and the evolution of Lower Than Atlantis". MusicRadar. Future plc. p. 1. Archived from the original on 5 May 2018. Retrieved 5 May 2018.
- ^ a b c d e f g h i Far Q (Booklet). Lower Than Atlantis. A Wolf at Your Door. 2010. WYD021.
{{cite AV media notes}}
: CS1 maint: others in cite AV media (notes) (link) - ^ a b Bryant 2011, p. 46
- ^ Moorhead, Rosy (23 August 2013). "Watford band Lower Than Atlantis play Reading and Leeds festivals this weekend". Watford Observer. Newsquest Media Group. Archived from the original on 5 May 2018. Retrieved 5 May 2018.
- ^ a b c d e "Lower Than Atlantis - Far Q". Rock Sound. Patrick Napier. 24 March 2010. Archived from the original on 17 May 2015. Retrieved 17 May 2015.
- ^ Rauf, Raziq (2011). "BBC - Music - Review of Lower Than Atlantis - World Record". bbc.co.uk. Archived from the original on 6 July 2015. Retrieved 6 July 2015.
- ^ Ruhlmann, William. "World Record - Lower than Atlantis - Songs, Reviews, Credits, Awards - AllMusic". AllMusic. Archived from the original on 19 October 2014. Retrieved 6 July 2015.
- ^ a b Miorin, Tobias (December 2015). "Interview with Eddy Thrower - Lower Than Atlantis". Mike Dolbear Drums. Archived from the original on 1 February 2017. Retrieved 5 May 2018.
- ^ a b c Chamberlain, Richard (7 April 2010). "INTERVIEW: Album report from Lower Than Atlantis". MusicRadar. Future plc. Archived from the original on 13 July 2015. Retrieved 13 July 2015.
- ^ Chamberlain 2012, p. 60
- ^ Reid, Sean (19 August 2009). "Alter The Press!: Flood Of Red UK Tour Update". Alter the Press!. SpinMedia. Archived from the original on 12 July 2015. Retrieved 11 July 2015.
- ^ Reid, Sean (28 September 2009). "Alter The Press!: Lower Than Atlantis Pull Out of Flood of Red Tour". Alter the Press!. SpinMedia. Archived from the original on 12 July 2015. Retrieved 11 July 2015.
- ^ Lower Than Atlantis (Booklet). Lower Than Atlantis. Sony Music Entertainment. 2014. 88843090462.
{{cite AV media notes}}
: CS1 maint: others in cite AV media (notes) (link) - ^ Lower Than Atlantis (8 October 2014). "hmv.com talks to Mike Duce from Lower Than Atlantis" (Interview). For knowing Lancaster: 2:36–39. Archived from the original on 24 March 2016. Retrieved 31 August 2015.
- ^ Reid, Sean (14 February 2010). "Alter The Press!: New Lower Than Atlantis Song". Alter the Press!. SpinMedia. Archived from the original on 12 July 2015. Retrieved 11 July 2015.
- ^ "Lower Than Atlantis - Taping Songs Off The Radio". Rock Sound Magazine. 17 February 2010. Archived from the original on 17 May 2015. Retrieved 17 May 2015.
- ^ "iTunes - Music - Taping Songs Off the Radio by Lower Than Atlantis". iTunes. Archived from the original on 18 May 2015. Retrieved 17 May 2015.
- ^ "Far Q by Lower Than Atlantis". iTunes. Archived from the original on 18 September 2015. Retrieved 18 September 2015.
- ^ Lacey-Davidson, Mattie (30 March 2018). "Lower Than Atlantis feel the pressure of UK tour". Times. Newsquest Media Group. Archived from the original on 5 May 2018. Retrieved 5 May 2018.
- ^ Harrison, Flicky (2018). "Lower Than Atlantis stay true to punk ethics". Swindon Advertiser. Newsquest Media Group. Archived from the original on 5 May 2018. Retrieved 5 May 2018.
- ^ Reid, Sean (1 March 2010). "Alter The Press!: I Am Ghost Leeds Show Moved". Alter the Press!. SpinMedia. Archived from the original on 12 July 2015. Retrieved 11 July 2015.
- ^ Reid, Sean (16 June 2010). "Alter The Press!: Lower Than Atlantis UK Dates". Alter the Press!. SpinMedia. Archived from the original on 12 July 2015. Retrieved 11 July 2015.
- ^ "Lower Than Atlantis - Far Q". Rock Sound Magazine. 6 July 2010. Archived from the original on 17 May 2015. Retrieved 17 May 2015.
- ^ Far Q (Sleeve). Lower Than Atlantis. A Wolf at Your Door. 2010. none.
{{cite AV media notes}}
: CS1 maint: others in cite AV media (notes) (link) - ^ Reid, Sean (2 September 2010). "Alter The Press!: Lower Than Atlantis UK and European Tour Dates". Alter the Press!. SpinMedia. Archived from the original on 12 July 2015. Retrieved 11 July 2015.
- ^ "Final Band Announced For Rock Sound Presents… Powered By Fender Tour". Rock Sound Magazine. 22 July 2010. Archived from the original on 17 May 2015. Retrieved 17 May 2015.
- ^ Patashnik, Ben (27 September 2010). "Lower Than Atlantis - Five Reasons To Be Excited". Rock Sound Magazine. Archived from the original on 8 July 2015. Retrieved 6 July 2015.
- ^ a b c d Reid, Sean (31 March 2010). "Alter The Press!: Album Review: Lower Than Atlantis - Far Q". Alter the Press!. SpinMedia. Archived from the original on 12 July 2015. Retrieved 11 July 2015.
- ^ a b c Parker 2010
- ^ Redrup, Zach (10 June 2010). "ALBUM: Lower Than Atlantis – Far Q". Dead Press!. Archived from the original on 7 June 2018. Retrieved 3 June 2018.
- ^ a b c Johnskibeat (22 March 2010). "Lower Than Atlantis – Far Q - The Line Of Best Fit". The Line of Best Fit. Archived from the original on 8 July 2015. Retrieved 8 July 2015.
- ^ Nitsche, Peter (April–May 2010). "Reviews: Lower Than Atlantis / Far Q". Ox-Fanzine (in German). Retrieved 22 May 2019.
- ^ a b Doyle, Tomas (17 May 2010). "Album: Lower Than Atlantis – Far Q". Thrash Hits. Archived from the original on 8 July 2017. Retrieved 5 May 2018.
- ^ Arnold, Ian. "Lower Than Atlantis New Video and Album Tracklisting". Bring the Noise UK. Archived from the original on 9 July 2015. Retrieved 8 July 2015.
- ^ Redrup, Zach (19 December 2010). "ALBUMS OF 2010: DEAD PRESS! Top 15". Dead Press!. Retrieved 18 June 2020.
- ^ Withers 2011, p. 70
Sources
- Chamberlain, Richard (October 2012). "Eddy Thrower Lower Than Atlantis". Rhythm (208). Bath: Future plc. ISSN 0957-6592.
- Bryant, Tom (13 August 2011). McMahon, James (ed.). "Speak & Destroy". Kerrang! (1376). London: Bauer Media Group. ISSN 0262-6624.
- Mursong, Kate (10 January 2009). McMahon, James (ed.). "Introducing: Lower Than Atlantis". Kerrang! (1243). London: Bauer Media Group. ISSN 0262-6624.
- Parker, Tristan (March 2010). Harper, Simon (ed.). "Lower Than Atlantis". Clash (March 2010). Clash Music Ltd. ISSN 1743-0801.
- Patashnik, Ben (March 2013). Patashnik, Ben (ed.). "Us Against the World". Rock Sound (171). London: Freeway Press Inc. ISSN 1465-0185.
- Withers, Pete (February 2011). Bir, Ryan (ed.). "Lower Than Atlantis". Rock Sound (144). London: Freeway Press Inc. ISSN 1465-0185.