If you’ve been a regular reader of Backseat Mafia, you’ll have found Emma Kupa popping up throughout its history, specifically as lead singer of the much lamented (especially by us) Standard Fare. Happily, a move to Cambridge allowed Kupa to recruit bassist Mark Boxall and Drummer Tom Barden and form Mammoth Penguins.
The brilliant Fortuna Pop! label were quickly on board and earlier this month released the bands debut long player ‘Hide and Seek’, a collection of records that showed Kupa’s songwriting had lost none of its incisive and insightful lyrics, or her knack of hitting upon those classic indie anthem-like melodies. Better still, she’s found new foils for her soaring vocals.
Propped Up is a case in point. Opening with a chord sequence that dances straight into your heart. Its jerky power pop, with Kupa soaring over the top of everything, surrounded by crashing cymbals and these rather delicate backing vocals from the boys. It ebbs and flows, this rather acidic guitar making its presence felt, until a final wind down to finish.
Check out the Darren Hayman directed video, here
