Brighton newcomers Flip Top Head share their unique sound with debut single
Seventh Bell Number is their first release, showcasing a unique blend of seemingly contrasting genres.
Photo: Katie Foxley
Brighton newcomers Flip Top Head are a seven-piece jazz/rock band. It’s fair to say their sound is far from conventional; they take elements of jazz music, hard rock and orchestral music and smash it all together with a chaotic yet funky sound.
The collective consists of friends Bowie Bartlett (guitar/vocals), Marie Freiss (bass), Alfie Beer (trombone/guitar), Bertie Beer (guitar/vocals), Harrison Spooner (guitar), Ollie White (synth/guitar) and Harry Giles (drums).
The band has risen to prominence playing local shows in and around the Brighton area performing with the likes of Honeyglaze, Malady and China Bears. The release of their debut comes in the middle of an eight-show tour, which concludes at the Pipeline in their stomping ground of Brighton.
Photo: Katie Foxley
The enigmatic debut has so many different levels to it. The start of the song includes very bass-heavy funk sounds with the inclusion of a trombone-led melody. Bartlett’s echoing vocals come in and then it develops into more of a rock-heavy sound, hitting its crescendo just over a minute in with what can only be described as a sudden explosion of heavy, almost metal-like rock. The ability that Flip Top Head show to shapeshift who they are and what their sound is in the space of seconds is awe-inspiring — and not something that many bands are able (or dare) to showcase.
The chorus comprises of melancholic vocals in front of a heavily minor chord progression all adding to the pessimistic feel of the track. The heavier sections feel like the song is venting its frustration almost.
It’s clear to see that Flip Top Head aren’t afraid to mash together seemingly contrasting genres in their sound, something that I think will really help them to stand out in a crowded Brighton music scene. This unique fusion of genres makes me curious and excited about what they will do in the future.