NYC’s Bell Preps Debut EP

FRICTION alum Bell is set to self-release their six-song debut EP, titled just that, EP, as a digital download early this spring. I’ve been spinning EP over the last couple of weeks and the demo work that we’ve heard from the band over the last few years has expanded into a solid, sparkling cohesive new album. A long time favorite Bell track “Echinacea” receives a shiny new makeover on the EP. The new version begins with chopped samples of a crowd cheering, handclaps, and bouncy IDM beats before the introduction of front-girl Olga Bell’s expressive vocals and delicate keyboard arrangements. Live drums accompaning the digital beats, reverb, echo-ey vocals, and a swirling background of, er, effervescent bells beef up the track from its previous bedroom-y edition making for a much more radiant sound.

The quartet will be making their debut at SXSW this year, playing dates all week long. Check out the band’s MySpace page for full show details and to stream the new version of “Echinacea.” Bell’s EP (cover art above) will be available later this Spring.

[STREAM]: Bell  ”Echinacea” (New Version)
EP, Self-Released; 2008