Narc. Magazine Online
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The band bring their self-critical dry humour and ‘sad but fun’ sound to Newcastle
From the decision to form a project without a lick of musical experience to their name, to the unabashedly explicit nature of said name, Crywank have never done things the orthodox way. What started initially as a solo project for songwriter Jay Clayton back in the halcyon malaise of 2009 has since evolved and grown into a fuller line-up, and a steadfast partnership with percussionist Dan Watson.
Drawing vast inspiration from the American anti-folk scene, Crywank pair sparse, cuttingly simple instrumentals with confessional lyrics that toy with self-criticism, dry humour, and tongue-in-cheek deconstructions of creeping paranoias and droll niches alike. Characterised by a ‘sad but fun’ sound that drips with candour and an enigmatic charm, the band’s unwavering DIY ethos (they remain self-managed even after nine albums) has helped them to build a cult following of loyal devotees and a mammoth online presence, despite the self-imposed ceiling of their post-watershed moniker. Clayton and Watson bring their distinct live show to The Cluny on Wednesday 7th December. Joining them in support will be lo-fi Canadian outfit Commuted.
Crywank and Commuted play The Cluny, Newcastle on Wednesday 7th December.
