Kitchens of Distinction

By Matthew

've always had a weakness for three piece bands. The lack of instruments/voices often gives them immediacy and forces the group to focus on songwriting. It's usually a little more raw and a little more common in punk acts… who doesn't love that? Kitchens of Distinction are an oddity then.

Here's a trio with a rich orchestrated sound. This is due mostly to Julian Swales layering track after track of effects-heavy guitar work on most songs. Some even credit them as being pioneers in the shoegazing genre that was beginning around their 1989 debut album, Love is Hell. Their approach made them an indie act in their time, but their willingness to be openly gay and write songs about their sexuality probably helped earn the label. It also hurt them with some reviewers. Ultimately they were dismissed along with other shoegazing acts as being too "pleasant" and "middle class". The music may be subdued, but it's not safe... this band took risks. And while KOD's melodic wall of sound is pleasing, it's not without some teeth.

Its sounds dated, the writing isn't particularly striking, but KOD's warm sound is tough not to like. Richly layered guitars swirl around the bright vocal melodies of Patrick Fitzgerald. There are some beautifully orchestrated moments on each of their four albums. Guitarist Julian Swales still has his acolytes as his approach was fairly unique in the late 80's. While I've never been to one of their shows, I've read comments from attendees that say this group had a beautiful live sound. Apparently Swales was meticulous in crafting a very large and interesting sound at their gigs using his big-rig of effects. Now the pre-recorded tape loop or sound guy does all the heavy lifting. Ah well.

With Kitchens, you can have your valium and eat it too.