Introducing Bear's Den;

Recognise these good looking fellows? Yep that's right, back in December 2013 I wrote a review of Bear's Den's stunning track Pompeii here on this very blog. That song will always remain to be one of the most beautiful songs I have ever heard. It really does hold a special place in my heart. Recently I came across this song once again on YouTube with a new and improved name and video. Now the slightly different title of 'Above The Clouds Of Pompeii' is accompanied by an extremely moving video. I thought there was no way in hell this song could get any better for me but by golly I was wrong! The new recording of the track comprises of an ensemble of new instruments and the sound in general is clearer and more crisp, as good as new. I particularly love the trumpet addition at the end of the song accompanied by the more emphasised drum beat. It shows how much the band have progressed in a single year, discovering newer more complex ways to enhance an already beautiful sound. To my delight the lyrics have not been changed whatsoever so the story-telling told by vocalist Andrew Davie remains as compassionate and moving as ever.

--Above The Clouds Of Pompeii--

Since their formation in 2012 the guys have made the transition from performing in small pub venues to audiences as large as 60,000 supporting Mumford and Sons on their Gentlemen of the Road tour. (Which I was lucky enough to attend!) They have also performed with the likes of Ben Howard and Daughter. Anyone who loves Mumford or Ben would fall in love with Bear's Den's chilled folkie sound. One of their newer chilled songs released in 2014 was their track Elysium. The song lyrics are addressed to a younger brother giving him advice of how to cope with adult life. 'Don't let bitterness become you... your only hopes are within you'. The themes of family and compassion are expressed here. You will never get through a Bear's Den song without an insightful, inspiring and intelligent message. My favourite section of the song is the instrumental break in the middle of the track giving the listener a breather for the lyrics to truly sink in. This section reminds me very much of the sound familiar with London band Eliza and the Bear (check them out here if you haven't already). I love the hipster tumblr-esk vibe you get from the Elysium video which will really appeal to the teenage/ young adult age group. However the real tragedy captured in this video (how the university students cope after a shooting in their school) really hit home and made it overwhelmingly powerful. The fact that this was a true story too made it that bit more emotional.


I think the music industry is in dire need of another folk group as large as Mumford. I really think Bears Den are going to be the next massive group to follow in their footsteps. Their first debut album 'Islands' was released in 2014 and already has achieved amazing reviews. I have just ordered myself a copy as I write and I cannot wait for it to arrive. Their relaxing tones with a nice cuppa have made my cold wintery nights perfect. Ahhhh...Bliss.