In celebration of the 15th anniversary of their modern indie-rock classic Jewellery Quarter, Birmingham's The Twang have today released a special limited edition Gold & Black splatter LP version of the record. On the cusp of their victory lap of tour dates around the UK, we caught up with singer Phil Etheridge and have a test pressing of the new record to give away to one lucky winner.
"The feel of this special edition is driven by a strong identifying pulse, one of drama, of unique groove and display, and yet ferociously independent, not owing an explanation to anyone but those willing to listen." - Liverpool Sound & Vision
Re-recorded and remastered, Jewellery Quarter is now available on vinyl for the first time ever. Presented as a limited edition Gold & Black splatter LP and Black LP, it features a fresh take on the classic artwork. A firm fan favourite from the Midlands indie massive, the album originally debuted at number 20 in the UK charts upon its release in 2009, with hit singles such as 'Barney Rubble' and 'Encouraging Sign'.
TM: You’ve said of Jewellery Quarter: “The whole record sounds youthful and it just reminded me of what was a crazy but beautiful period in our lives.” How do you feel the experience of recording Jewellery Quarter helped you grow as a musician? Phil Etheridge: Every day's a school day eh?! But there were a few things I learned from that time: If ya give Stu (Stu Hartland, guitar) licence, you'll have thirty guitar tracks layered up and the songs will sound like they’re off Be Here Now. Going bald is rubbish. Ya can snowboard in Granada in spring but don’t walk into the bar that night with severe facial sunburn and an orange tee shirt on. You’ll get laughed out the bar. Never trust a man who wears a toe ring.
TM: With the new Jewellery Quarter 24K edition, you’ve re-recorded and remastered the album for this special release. Which of the tracks on the record do you feel has had the biggest glow-up from the original mix?
PE: 'Put It On The Dancefloor' sounds monstrous.
TM: For you, Jewellery Quarter captures a moment in time. But what are the differences between The Twang of 2009 and The Twang of 2024 in the studio?
PE: We are older. We are nicer to each other! We care a bit less. But in a good way if ya know what I mean!
"It’s just a band making some tunes. There’s other more important shit!" - Phil Etheridge
TM: In honour of the new release and anniversary, The Twang will launch a new UK tour this December. This will include playing tracks Jewellery Quarter that you have never played live. How does it feel to rehearse these new, yet old, songs?
PE: It’s been great and they’re sounding really good. I say it every interview but I feel super fortunate that I get to spend my days laughing and playing songs with my mates.
It won’t be forever so I try to enjoy it as much as possible.
TM: TM: Jewellery Quarter 24K is available on Gold/Black Splatter Vinyl and Black Vinyl at the Official The Twang Store. Does releasing your albums in tangible formats still hold significance in today's streaming culture?
PE: Jewellery Quarter was the only record we hadn’t released on vinyl and folk had been asking for it. Gotta give 'em what they want eh?!
Jewellery Quarter 24K is available from the Official The Twang Store on 24k Gold/Black Splatter and Black Vinyl. Colour vinyl stocks are very low, so don't wait around!
Enter our exclusive giveaway to win a test pressing of The Twang's new record Jewellery Quarter 24K.
The winner will be chosen on Monday, December 16 2024.
N.B: If the competition entry module is inaccessible, enter the giveaway directly via the button below.
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