WHEN you think about Scotland’s population, we boast an inordinate number of musical acts composed of twins. The Proclaimers, Biffy Clyro and... well, the MacDonald Brothers, are just the tip of the iceberg.
Glasgow-based sisters The Van T’s, sometimes known as Hannah and Chloe Van Thompson, give proof to the theory that siblings in bands are more artistically aligned than anybody. The band initially formed with drummer Shaun Hood but also recently recruited bassist Joanne Forbes to the line-up.
Having initially meddled with an acoustic folk-driven sound, the band have morphed into a more grunge-inspired outfit over the course of the past two years. Judging by teaser track Growler, their upcoming EP Laguna Babe is set to be their fuzziest and overtly 90s-inspired release yet.
“I think there’s a more ‘shoegaze’ element to the new EP,” says 21-year-old Hannah. “We take a lot from 90s bands in terms of their approach and techniques.
“We didn’t seem to personally connect with a lot of the stuff we used to write. We took a step back and started to write songs that we’d relate to, as well as genuinely enjoy playing live.”
It may seem curious to many that such a young band (all four are in their early 20s) are so inspired by American acts from the early 90s, but for many Scottish acts this has become the norm.
Catholic Action and WOMPS are both good examples of Glasgow-based acts reinventing the fuzz-rock style in a distinct and refreshing way. The Van T’s newest tracks manage to both emulate the genre and add their own touches, notably surf-rock guitar melodies and vocal harmonies.
This DIY scene as a whole is one that the four-piece appear to be well attached to, and Hannah particularly hails the inclusivity of Glasgow’s music community.
“We support bands and they support us back – to know that support structure exists is pretty cool,” she said. “Despite certain attitudes, Glasgow’s music scene and industry also has an increasing number of female acts and musicians.
“Have we ever been treated differently because of gender? I don’t think we have, at least not first hand. We work hard, we play hard just as any band would.”
The band’s hard work has already earned them slots at T in the Park, Wickerman and Electric Fields festivals, as well as support from the likes of BBC Radio’s Vic Galloway and Amazing Radio’s Jim Gellatly.
Given Hannah’s comments about community support, it’s also unsurprising that the band are choosing to launch their upcoming EP alongside a Glasgow band doing exactly the same thing.
“Our EP launch will be at The Hug and Pint on November 14, but we’re not doing it alone,” says Hannah. “United Fruit launch their new EP the same night. After that, we’re looking at new material and a Scottish tour.”
Glasgow-based gig-goers looking for a way to spend their Hallowe’en evening can also catch the band at Bloc tonight for a free show.
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