It Man released a first single in March, the catchy and full of danceability, ‘White Heat‘, a satirical romp through the fictional psyche of a young, middle-class 20th century couple fantasising about explosives, casual gambling and being Ray Liotta.
Prior to this, the band went under the name of The Jacques, but have now, with new member Dexter Dougan on the bass, moved in a different direction:
“After much thought and consideration, we have decided that we will no longer perform or release music as The Jacques. Since the formation of the band 8 years ago, our line-up has changed, sometimes amicably but also in ways beyond our control. Four years ago, we lost our best friend and bassist Will. We had just completed our debut album ‘The Four Five Three’ after spending our early 20s living and touring together. These are precious memories of ours and we are grateful for all of the friendship, support and love we have received over the years. We are currently finishing an album that we feel marks a departure from our previous musical direction. It is for that reason that we have agreed to be known by a different name moving forward. Thank you all for your continued support. Love, Finn, Elliot, Harry & Dexter a.k.a It Man”
It Man, by the way, is the title of a John Cooper Clarke poem/song which struck a chord with all members of the band.
Lead singer Finn O’Brien slurs out, “I’m trying, I’m trying not to think about it, cause its only there when I think about it”. All the while the guitars do a symbolic sleight of hand manoeuvre busily transporting the listener to some far off beach in the tropics, whilst nodding cheekily towards the spectre of neurosis that lurks just beneath the consumerist glitz of modern life.
‘White Heat’ was recorded by the legendary The Strokes producer Gordon Raphael and produced & mixed by another producer giant Dan Swift.
White Heat was released on 31 March on Sore Records.
Catch It Man ON TOUR through to June 16th. Or if you can’t make it, follow them at:
