A Quilt of Conversation

The words “hidden gem” do not even come close to describing A Quilt of Conversation, the debut EP from Needles & Bees. How this band seems to have slipped under the radar of so many kiwi music fans, myself included, is rather astounding, as the music they are producing is a pleasure to listen to.

The EP opens with the relatively mellow track Dollar Man, the haunting vocals of lead singer Sam Hume giving the listener a relaxed introduction to what is to come. Fitting too, that the vocals should the first thing to grace our ears, as it is very much a vocally driven EP. We are then treated to what I thought were the two best tracks on the CD, the faster paced songs Reborn and Planets, exquisitely crafted tracks which showcase the talent these three guys have to offer. From there the EP remains upbeat, the guitar and drums featuring prominently in most songs, yet never completely taking over.

In comparing Needles & Bees to other bands, I was instantly reminded of fellow Kiwi acts The Mint Chicks and Cut Off Your Hands, or even New York group Vampire Weekend, and fans of those bands will surely enjoy A Quilt of Conversation. The biggest disappointments I experienced while playing it were these; firstly, that the album came to an end so quickly and secondly, that I was sitting down when I originally listened to it. Fortunately, both of these complaints were easily rectified, and since then I have regularly put the EP on repeat in my living room and danced the afternoon away. I suggest all New Zealand indie fans do the same.