Potato - New Music

Experimental Newcomers POTATO Announce Debut EP Stew Released 26th July 2024 via Mookin Records

Four-piece experimental band Potato are delighted to announce that their debut EP, Stew, will be released on 26th July 2024 via East London independent label Mookin Records. Such is the golden glow and calming atmosphere instilled across the debut EP from south London four-piece Potato, that the hazy bliss its five tracks evoke will immediately have listeners luxuriating in its warming rays. Yet just beneath this shimmering surface lies an array of strong emotions, musical dexterity and—in the case of the lyrics of one song—rapidly escaping bodily fluids, that reveal the depth and compassion underpinning this unique debut. Recorded in several sessions at Big Jelly in Ramsgate, Press Play in Bermondsey, Lightship 95 at Trinity Buoy Wharf, and producer Michael Collins’ (Seazoo, Johanna Warren) attic/bathroom, the EP was co-produced by Michael Collins and Bob Corduroy, engineered and mixed by Michael Collins at Press Play, Bermondsey, and mastered by Erik Wofford (Explosions In The Sky, White Denim) at Cacophony Recorders in Austin, Texas.

To celebrate, the trio have today revealed the video for lead single ‘Almost Gone’ which is set for release on 1st May 2024 via all good digital service providers. Lead singer and guitarist Bob Corduroy says: “The first part of this song was written in 2020 as ‘Sklep II’ and was later performed in an end-of-year video ‘2k21’—originally to see how many polyrhythms I could fit into one loop before it sounded too busy; in this sense, it straddles the fine line between clarity and chaos on which the lyrics are built. Within the words there’s a feeling of frustration and a plea for open conversation during a dark and challenging time.” “I recorded most of the instruments at Mike Collins’ attic and laid down about 10 guitar parts, 3 keyboard parts, percussive elements and a clarinet part before Matt joined the Potato gang. The piano was recorded at Big Jelly, Ramsgate, whilst we were recording ‘Hands Fold Act II’ using a great upright piano mic’d to the nines. I used a voice note of the underground which I’d edited and helps to emphasise the feeling of peace and grief in the presence and absence of brake screeches and tube noise.”

The track is the first look at new material from the band since the release of 2023 single ‘Irène’s Night In’, taken from Mookin Records’ concept compilation album, Irène. Thriving in the vibrant UK musical landscape spanning London and Margate, Potato consists of Bob Corduroy (vocals, guitar, keys, clarinet), Matt Wildman (bass, guitar, synth) and Sam Zissou (drums) and most recent addition Sam Honey (guitar). Collectively, they craft a distinctive musical style that blurs the lines between genres. Drawing inspiration from an eclectic mix of sources, Potato weaves together elements of post-rock and jazz, resulting in a captivating fusion that defies categorisation. Their musical influences, ranging from Good Morning and Happiness to legendary acts like King Crimson and Philip Glass, imbue their sound with a fascinating depth and complexity.

The band’s artistic expression resonates with listeners on a profound level, delving into themes of introspection and vulnerability. Their lyrics explore the intricacies of human emotions, addressing topics of insecurity, self-doubt, and the inevitable encounters with failure—but amidst the introspective musings also lies joy, a reserved euphoria rooted in the simplest things. Formed in 2020, Potato emerged as a response to tumultuous times, harnessing the power of music as both a cathartic outlet and a means of connection. Their synergy as a band is evident not only in their complex compositions but also in their stage presence, captivating audiences with their melodic noise and intricate time signatures. They quickly made their mark within the London indie scene, playing in renowned venues like Windmill Brixton, The Shacklewell Arms, Paper Dress Vintage. The George Tavern and Sebright Arms. In doing so, they’ve successfully cultivated a fervent fan base to their one-of-a-kind sound, recently supporting The Wave Pictures, Lunch, Personal Trainer, Sunday League and KIEFF. 

 The band will be revealing further new music and live dates over the coming weeks. Debut EP Stew is released 26th July 2024 via Mookin Records