Now Is The Time
Self-Released, 2021
9/10
A New York City outfit comprised of Adrian Blake Enscoe (guitar/vocals), Sydney Shepherd (cello/vocals) and Regina Strayhorn (multi-instrumentalist/vocals), as Bandits On The Run the trio put an animated and symphonic take on indie-pop in their inimitable formula.
A quick EP, Now Is The Time starts the listen with the vocally strong “We Battle Giants”, where an energetic version of pop unfolds with an orchestral slant and playful percussion, and “Now Is The Time” follows with soulful singing and warm strings, as the lovely harmonies are nothing short of irresistible.
The middle tracks, “Hurricane” and “Spellbound”, don’t disappoint either, where the former offers an initially bare display of playful beauty, and the latter showcases frisky manipulation of strings amid expressive vocals that are rich with an inviting tone.
Towards the end, “Sing You To Sleep” leads with the sounds of a storm before gentle acoustic guitar and poetic singing complement the gorgeous cello work, and “She’s The Queen” exits the listen dreamy amid plenty of pop spirit present in their undeniable charm.
There’s an incredible amount of talent in attendance across these 6 songs, and the 3 part harmonies alone are worth the price of admission, as Bandits On The Run continue to prove just why they’re one of the most exciting bands in today’s indie-pop scene.
Travels well with: CF Watkins- Babygirl; Evelyn Cools- Misfit Paradise