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Canterbury Bells Releases “Angora”

Is there a particular ethos behind the single/EP/album or any particular music styles or events that inspired it?

In April 2023, Ezra pitched a bare-bones version of “Angora” recorded in a voice memo to Sean and Ryan. Each band member typically brings ideas they’ve been working on to practices to see if it’s worth building upon. In this instance, both felt the song had potential and recognized that it was a story about love that needed to be shared. Ryan jumped in and added a few more chords to embellish the song, and Sean started putting together guitar lines that would further amplify the hazy, dizzying, nostalgic feeling. Our goal for this song was to take the listener on a journey, bringing them to memory and reminding them of physical places they may associate with the idea of love.

Can you briefly describe what the song/each song is about?

“Angora” started as a love letter lead vocalist, Ezra, wrote to their fiance, paying homage to where they fell in love, Angora Lakes. Ezra was re-listening to Iron & Wine’s 2007 album, The Shepard's Dog, in the first few months of 2023. That album heavily influenced the feeling of this song. Around that time, Ezra had been laid off from a job they enjoyed and felt a new sense of fear and excitement for what would come next. In this time of uncertainty, Ezra clung to what had been consistent for them: their love for Rachel. With that sentiment in mind, Ezra began recounting these early feelings of love where things are exciting and scary at the same time.

Where was the single/EP/album recorded and who was involved in its production?

The acoustic guitar was recorded on an iPhone in Ezra's apartment. The vocal tracks (Ezra, Ryan, and, Sean) were recorded and mixed in Ryan's apartment, recorded on a vintage Shure microphone from the 70s. Liam recorded the drums in his apartment and Sean added some beautiful guitar lines in Ryan's bedroom studio.

Who are the band members and what do they play?

Canterbury Bells is comprised of Sean Thompson (Guitar, Vocals, Mandolin), Ryan Ehresman (Synths, Guitar), Ezra Teshome (Vocals, Guitar), and Liam McKay (Drums).

Have you played any notable gigs, festivals or other events? Likewise radio or TV appearances?

We played one of the shows for Noisepop's annual music festival. We've also played multiple Summer of Music events hosted by the city of San Francisco.

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