Olympians - Book Club 1 // The Great Gatsby (Review)

At the moment Olympians are probably one of Norwich's top exports, and so their new single was greatly anticipated. This new single is the first in a series which Olympians are calling the Book Club; seemingly because the packaging for them will be books, and also perhaps (if the title of the first single is anything to go by) that they will be named after or inspired by books. (Who says people aren't reading anymore!)
Putting the unique packaging aside - mainly because I haven't got it yet - I endeavour to briefly discuss the music.

The title track, The Great Gatsby, is a less upbeat offering than some of their previous (except perhaps Wake Up Old) but has some Olympians hallmarks; some drone and mathy guitars (which at one point sound surprisingly like part of the vocal line from Wake Up Old).

The b-side to the single, Tidy House, Tiny Mind, showcases Olympians seeming desire to reinvent the barbershop quartet, much like the b-side to Wake Up Old did. The soft but anthemic vocals are cushioned over some lovely drone, synths, and drums. It all comes together and works really well. I'm going to put it out there right now - I think I prefer the b-side.

The single ends with a remix - a pretty good remix - of one of the tracks off their previous EP.

After the 10 minutes of the single (all 3 tracks) I am left thinking that this probably isn't as good as some of their previous singles, but Olympians' music has an undeniable charm to it that still shines through; particularly in the b-side Tidy House, Tiny Mind.

Perhaps most importantly, this first entry into the Book Club leaves me excited about what the next will be.

I'd definitely recommend having a listen (which is why I have embedded it below for you, like the nice guy I am).
Also, the video is pretty cool.

James