If the cutesy artwork, title of their forthcoming album ('Honeycomb Moons'), and inclination towards performing in front of a specially-designed 'Night-Garden' backdrop doesn't give away Armoured Bear's musical intentions, then nothing will. And it's true: the His Dark Materials-loving Corkonians' debut single is undeniably twee in parts. Still, even if the title track is a bit unbearably saccharine upon its first spin, repeated listens draw out its many nuances: slouchy, reggae-tinged pop, warm harmonies and a melody dreamier than the local High School hunk. Honeycomb Moons is a gentle folk-pop ballad that sees lead Bear Anthony Noonan profess: "I'll knit you a pillow of thoughts to rest your light head on", and ..With Grace is a jaunty acoustic number that integrates a sassy trumpet riff. Bring on the album.
Imagination is available to download from June 6th.
