Nice Biscuit - “The Star”
Photo by Kyle Dobie
Brisbane-based psych rockers Nice Biscuit have just released the vibrantly cinematic “The Star.”
This track is incredibly delicious and interesting, with a hypnotic, funky, retro-tinged bass line serving as its foundation, bringing a pleasing sense of rhythm, groove, and earthly energy to this otherwise otherworldly composition. Supporting the groove are rhythmic textures from drums and percussive elements, like handclaps, shakers, and what sounds like a xylophone, among other delightful ambient flourishes.
A myriad of surreal and provocative layers induce a beautifully immersive and cinematic mood. Atmospheric guitar, drenched in reverb and delay, accentuates the groove while fostering a sense of exotic depth. Synths meditatively flare up, along with breezy, flute-like tones. But it is the layered, ethereal, chanting, and dreamy vocals that steal the show. They are exquisitely coated in an introspective and mystical vibe that blends seamlessly with the other instruments.
Lyrically, this mesmerising psych-pop track speaks to the hope and recovery that follows pain and chaos. It encourages practicing self-love and care while embracing guidance and protection from others. “The Star“ was written while Nice Biscuit were staying at a farmhouse in Boonah, called Swan Pond Studios, which is run by the band’s friend Alistair Richardson.
The band adds: “‘The Star‘ was influenced by the joy of being together and peeling away the pressures and anxiety of life. It was created incidentally one morning during a songwriting session, and what felt like an ephemeral jam at the time captured a moment of taking a step back and just appreciating that time together. We felt like we could share that feeling through this song.”
Accompanying the track is a beautifully shot music video, directed and filmed on 16mm film by Levi Strauss Cranston. The acid-tinged video makes “The Star” feel like a track taken from Alejandro Jodorowsky’s film, The Holy Mountain. “The Star” is taken from Nice Biscuit’s forthcoming album, SOS, slated for release October 4th via Bad Vibes & Fuzz Club (UK) and Levitation & Greenway Records (USA).