It beggars believe that 11 years ago a wee Indie band from Dundee exploded onto the scene with their debut album Hats off to the Buskers.
Today, The View’s first foray into the music world continues to hold special place in the hearts of us indie kids.
This theory was proven last year when the band relentlessly toured the album on sold out shows across the UK and Scotland – with a 6 night sell out residency at the Tuts.
Released at the infancy of 2007, January 22nd to be precise – The View managed to succeed where many failed during that era of inspired Libertine landfill Indie. The Dundonian foursome treated us to some amazing debut tunes such as ‘Wasted Little DJ’s, ‘Superstar Tradesman’ and ‘Same Jeans’.
Front man’s Kyle Falconers occasional indecipherable vocals, observations on life and poet like lyrics backed by a strong and talented band meant The View clambered to number one in the UK charts. Owen Morris of Oasis producing fame gives HOTTB a Libertines-esk early Oasis feel which obviously appealed to so many.
Buskers was a success due to its musical depth layered within its 14 tracks, notably with the folky feel on ‘Don’t tell me’ the fast paced almost Ska-inspired ‘Wasteland’ and that acoustic singalong favourite ‘Face for the Radio’. Another standout quality of the band was how Kyle and bassist Kieren Webster would effortlessly swap instruments and lead vocals during songs ‘Skag Trendy’ and ‘Grans for Tea’ – proving how tight a unit musically they were.
More than a decade on and with five successful albums under their belts, The View have decided to take a well-earned break with lads heading their separate ways to concentrate on other projects. Kyle is touring his own solo album ‘No Thank You’, guitarist Pete is currently touring with Echo & the Bunnymen, Kieren is curating his own club nights across Scotland while Drummer Steven is dishing out drums lessons.
Come back soon lads!
Comments