North Atlantic Oscillation - Grappling Hooks (quotes trailer)

After a busy and exciting 2009, releasing their debut EP and playing shows with the likes of Porcupine Tree, Explosions in the Sky and Cymbals Eat Guitars, North Atlantic Oscillations debut album, Grappling Hooks, is released on March 22nd on Kscope.

The band have been described as prog-pop and electro-rock, but really they just make music. The music has soaring harmonies and loud guitars and dreamy synths and heavy drums and strange effects and unexpected changes-of-mind.

NAO are the Scottish based trio of Sam Healy (vocals, guitar, bass, keyboards, synths, sax, percussion), Ben Martin (drums, percussion, programming) and Bill Walsh (bass, synth bass, vocals). They describe themselves as playing their instruments within a computerised wall of sound.

Grappling Hooks is a subtle yet powerful kaleidoscope of purring electronics, atmospheric layers and hook-laden melodies. Preceded by single Drawing Maps from Memory, out on March 8th, the album proves that the praise that was heaped upon Callsigns EP was entirely justified.

It sounds nothing like you expect it to. But then thats exactly what makes North Atlantic Oscillation so beguiling, intriguing and fascinating theres a surprise around every corner. Are you ready?

Their bright, friendly electronics and Brian Wilson harmonies suggest Scotland may have the beginnings of its own Animal Collective. Ones to watch. Metro

Delightfully shiny tunes Music Week

[Mugicha]

Just heard "Drawing Maps From Memory" on Radio 1, Zane Lowe's show... I cannot state enough how awesome this song is. Really looking forward to the new album!