Nottingham’s Express Office Portico unveils their eagerly awaited debut EP, ‘Incommunicado’. Produced under the skilled guidance of Joshua Rumble, renowned for his work with acts like Bastille and Black Country New Road, the EP promises a captivating blend of infectious melodies, poignant lyricism, and inventive instrumentation.
At the heart of the EP lies the lead single ‘He Said She Said’, a track that effortlessly captures the essence of Express Office Portico’s sound. From its compelling guitar-driven introduction to its buoyant synthesis of pop sensibilities and indie flair, the song exemplifies the band’s ability to craft music that is both relatable and engaging. Lead vocals, vibrant and emotive, guide listeners through a sonic journey marked by dynamic shifts and irresistible hooks.
Reflecting on the EP’s overarching theme, the band draws inspiration from the profound words of Sylvia Plath, whose poem lends its title to the record. The band explains: “The phrase ‘Incommunicado’ was taken from a poem written by Sylvia Plath. In simple terms, it means the inability or lack of wanting to communicate with others. Sylvia’s writings often are deeply confessional and painfully personal, revealing a sense of honesty and vulnerability that is not often found in a modern world of social media and keeping up appearances. ‘Incommunicado’ similarly displays not only an exposing set of lyrics written about topics such as childhood trauma, substance abuse, and unstable relationships, but also includes the overarching theme of an inability to communicate with and fully understand the world we live in due to this.
While the EP holds this rather solemn theme of seclusion throughout, the lyrics inside each track attempt to challenge this sense of hopelessness to the world, and bittersweetly chips away at the idea that self-isolation and preservation is the solution to overcoming deeply held pain.”
Recorded in both London and Nottinghamshire, the EP bears the imprint of multiple creative spaces, each contributing to its rich sonic tapestry. With performances from new member Sam and the expertise of mastering engineer Nick Watson, ‘Incommunicado’ stands as a testament to the band’s collaborative spirit and unwavering dedication to their craft.
As listeners embark on this musical journey, they’ll find themselves immersed in a world where vulnerability meets strength, where melody serves as a vessel for introspection, and where every note resonates with authenticity. Express Office Portico’s debut EP is more than just a collection of songs; it’s a testament to the power of music to connect, inspire, and uplift the human spirit.