The first thing I notice when listening to instrumental post-rock duo Right Hand Left Hand is that these are musicians who have mastered their instruments. Seamlessly moving among them—often within the same song—they build their music with a maze of intertwining beats and melodies.
Andrew Plain and Rhodri Viney played in numerous bands around the Cardiff scene, but after hearing Trans Am by chance in a Dutch nightclub, the two decided to form a group that would explore more experimental leanings.
Two albums later that chance moment looks to be an even more significant one. The music, while being based on that of bands like Trans Am and The Fucking Champs has developed into so much more, to the point where I’d say there is no other band doing what they are at this time—a rare thing to find today.
I’m clearly not the only one who feels that way either, with the duo having supported Dead Meadow, Errors, The Mahjonng, The Mae Shi, Super Furry Animals, Funeral For A Friend, and Los Campesinos. To top this already impressive list, they are just about to head out on their second tour in support of Future of the Left (full details below).
Their most recent release, a self-titled second album, is an exquisite record with single “Seat 18c” a brilliant demonstration of all that makes them so exciting. My personal favourite though is the album’s midway point, “Broken Hill,” a calmer song than those released as singles from the release, but a track that really allows the superb technique of the two musicians to shine. Who needs words anyway?
Right Hand Left Hand is out now via Jealous Lovers Club and the band will be supporting Future of the Left at the following dates:
April 16th – Norwich Arts Centre, Norwich
April 17th – Bodega, Nottingham
April 19th – Riverside, Newcastle
April 20th – Liverpool Arts Club, Liverpool
April 21st – Electric Ballroom, London
May 13th – Night and Day, Manchester
