Moody Moody are an alternative Aberdeen quartet who provide an immersive assessment on life as we know it via their debut EP ‘Otherlands’. This existential analysis comes in the form of a variety of genres such as dreamy pop and shoegaze, along with gritty guitar work and fundamental foundations laid by bass guitar and drums. 

Frontman and guitarist Levi Kelman wrote the EP’s lyrics alongside fellow guitarist Jack Nisbet, with bassist Marc Culley and drummer Phil Collinbourne providing a meticulous musical momentum. ‘Otherlands’ was produced by both Moody Moody and Michael Macdonald, who also mixed and mastered all 4 tracks. The minimalistic artwork was created by Jonny Bell, and it perfectly encapsulates the intended feeling behind the EP. 

The EP itself is an existential assessment of our world and the subjective concept of thoughts and feelings. Opening track, ‘Feels Like This’, was one of two already released singles, and sets this theme quickly. As soon as the song begins, a foundation of guitar, bass and drumming are instantly heard, introducing listeners to the individual instrumental incorporations of each of the band members. While it is the longest track on the EP, at over 5 minutes, it doesn’t drag on like some other longer songs do, and it would sound very impressive in a live setting. In this introductory song, Moody Moody ask the question, “how can you go home, when it feels like this?” This gives the impression of a situation that is interpreted differently by two people. Whether this surrounds a relationship or otherwise, the band’s versatile way of wording their lyrics opens scope for discussion, regardless of what scenario you’re in. 

Second song ‘Shivers’ was the second single and continues the observational approach to songwriting. “I get the shivers, in the hottest weather,” is the opening line and is sang alongside prevalent bass guitar. Melodically, ‘Shivers’ is a very mesmerising tune with lots going on. That being said, this array of musical sounds doesn’t overpower or undermine any particular concept. Instead, it creates a very catchy and impactful tune that you’ll at least find yourself moving along to. 

‘Something Bigger’ is the third song and, while slower than the previous two tracks, is just as atmospheric. The steadier melody is simple, but great at drawing you in to listen further. With slower songs, you sometimes find that lyrics may jump out at you more. With this third song the message, “you could be part of something bigger,” is very obvious. The echoing of lyrics through backing vocals creates a more stately and haunting impact. 

The final, and title, track ‘Otherlands’ closes this debut EP off immaculately. It brings together the most memorable moments from the previous three tracks, creating a perfectly proportioned song to finish the EP off on. Its repetitive rhythm makes it effortlessly easy to listen to and follow along with. The also repeated lyric, “take me to the otherlands,” makes it clear that there is a desire to be somewhere new, perhaps better. These “otherlands” aren’t specified by Moody Moody which, yet again, emphasises the versatility in their writing, allowing every individual listener to imagine an easier, more positive, and simpler place on their own. 

‘Otherlands’ is a debut EP that many listeners will take comfort in. Its sentiments are that of acceptance and understanding, with an emphasis on others feeling the same way you do. Every song is produced incredibly, with all of them being different but sharing the same concept of being easy to listen to. It shouldn’t be difficult to hear vocals, and Moody Moody have mastered this. It is a set of songs that you’ll find yourself listening to multiple times, whether that’s because you enjoy a particular song, or the message(s) resonates with you.