SHAVEN PRIMATES
We are a 5-piece dark-wave, art-rock, proto/post-punk band, from Oxford UK & established in 2017, and we seek to push the boundaries of the genre. Our music is a narrative of human emotion and experience: fear, love and anger resonate through the orchestration, giving our audience a deeply cathartic release.
We have rumbling, grinding bass, wailing guitars and synths that flit between retro and modern, thundering, rolling drums and crooning, screaming vocals, guided by the Velvet Underground, Kate Bush, Tool, Prodigy, Yes, Clash, Bowie, Porcupine Tree, and Pink Floyd, and by our own will for making music we love.
BIRDS AREN'T REAL
After spending 5 years writing the epic life story album that was "Child Of Dirt", we needed to write something from scratch that was an introspective on the world, this time on "alt thought", a spin on the mesh of madness spread across the world in war, propaganda, lies, slander, hate, denial, and conspiracy. We wrote 3 songs around this along with 2 more on a perspective on the suicide of someone close, and the experiences of growing up in school with a mind that isn't compatible. This became the album: "Birds Aren't Real", released 28/07/23.
BIRDS AREN'T REAL
https://open.spotify.com/album/6Rnp5TySYZksY7iS6rh7u7
https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/shavenprimates/birds-arent-real-2
Click SoundCloud links for lyrics. Photos by Jason Warner of Fyrefly Music & Fyrefly Studios.
FADE AWAY
https://soundcloud.com/shavenprimates/fade-away/s-3tPbGsW11tt
Inspired by the Louis Theroux interviews with YouTubers Nick Fuentes and Baked Alaska, this song is about the rise of fascism in social media. It uses late 70s and early 80s elements of punk & post punk, breaking down into recent synth techniques and a chorus that grabs the emotion behind pressures of the modern age. Guitarist Tom Clark created the opening rolling intro riff and we built it up from there.
A DECISION
https://soundcloud.com/shavenprimates/a-decision/s-vCisWaXTuoy
Recently, someone close took their own life in a decided fashion, with planning and some insinuation along the way, so this song is about that and how it took effect on those close to them. With this we went for a gothic, early 80s sound and production technique, with symphonic, orchestral layers to represent the impact of the dire event.
SILICON IMPLANTS
https://soundcloud.com/shavenprimates/silicon-implants/s-YPh4h3BxY5h
This song is a run down of current observations, mentioning many current events and comparing it with historic knowledge to remind people of repeating the past. The line "Nazis Bad" is intended to reflect on the washing down of terminology in online arguments, alongside the excuse used to justify the Ukraine war, and how words are twisted currently so that known norms are shattered in the way that things aren't what they seem so that second guessing causes it to be weaponised. The song refers to Nietzsche for his misrepresentation in starting WWII, Aldous (Huxley) for his signature book "Brave New World" which details how people become complacent to what's happening in the world via technology, Rabia's intentions in the Middle East versus how it's rolled out to a power grabbing dictatorship, and Kafka rolling his eyes over the same thing Huxley predicted: a humanity that claims to know all that's occurring in the world.
Yes, all this is covered in the madness of this song, with the rapid beat down blues track, fast Homesick Blues vocals, its random yet deliberate keys and guitar work, and the bass line that's up front and pinning you to listen.
UNMASKED
https://soundcloud.com/shavenprimates/unmasked/s-xTUXQG3Sfb6
2 stories told here: 1 is from the perspective of an undiagnosed autistic child in the past who endured school despite none of it working for him, and that of a diagnosed autistic child who is getting the attention he deserves. The song is a praise to those who find their way in learning their difficulty, that they aren't themselves broken, and that they can now be confident in being themselves. It uses a delicate verse to emulate the classroom, and gave the chorus an elevating yet ongoing feeling for the full impact of the chorus.
BIRDS AREN'T REAL
https://soundcloud.com/shavenprimates/birds-arent-real/s-lnP5bpAwDxP
Well, isn't it obvious? Birds are clearly a ploy created by the government, made entirely of cybernetic organisms set out to monitor our every movement! It explores the viewpoint of an alternative truth that a person might latch onto, with a Spanish affinity for no good reason other than we liked it, and a sudden punk throwback for the chorus.
BACKSTORY
PRAISE
GALLERY
https://earmilk.com/2023/08/01/shaven-primates-shares-an-amazing-album-birds-arent-real/
Throughout "Birds Aren't Real," Shaven Primates deliver a distinctive sonic experience that pushes the boundaries of the genre. They fuse elements from various influences to create a hauntingly captivating, eerie, and alluring atmosphere. Their music is a soul-stirring exploration of the unexplored, urging listeners to question and contemplate beyond the surface.
The album encapsulates the band's raw talent, masterful musicianship, and poetic prowess. It leaves an indelible impression on anyone who dares to venture into their sonic realm. "Birds Aren't Real" is not just a collection of songs; it's an otherworldly auditory journey that will leave you spellbound and craving more.
https://bsideguys.com/2023/07/12/album-review-shaven-primates-birds-arent-real-ep/
“Birds Aren’t Real” is a testament to Shaven Primates’ creative ingenuity and their knack for blending the raw power of punk and post-punk with social commentary and personal introspection. The band invites their listeners to delve into thought-provoking narratives, enthralling melodies, and gripping performances that echo long after the final notes have faded. Each track stands as a testament to their powerful storytelling, compelling listeners to reflect, empathize, and question. The EP represents a courageous leap into the thematic depths that few bands dare to explore, cementing Shaven Primates’ position as one of the most innovative and unflinching bands in the contemporary music scene.
https://honkmagazine.com/shaven-primates-drop-mind-bending-birds-arent-real-album/
In “Birds Aren’t Real,” Shaven Primates masterfully crafted a record transcending mere music. It’s an audacious statement of artistic prowess, bound to leave an indelible mark on the contemporary music landscape. With their unapologetically unique blend of genres, Shaven Primates prove themselves as pioneers of sonic exploration, fearlessly pushing the boundaries of creativity.
https://plasticmag.co.uk/2023/07/shaven-primates-releases-new-ep/
Shaven Primates’ Birds Aren’t Real EP showcases their musical prowess, thought-provoking lyricism and ability to craft immersive sonic experiences. With their unique blend of influences and powerful storytelling, the band is carving their path in the music world. As they continue to create music that challenges norms and engages listeners, Shaven Primates is undoubtedly an artist to keep an eye on.
Shaven Primates are true innovators and daring experimenters. They craft their own unique world, fusing elements of psychedelic rock with intricate and complex rhythmic structures. The tracks on the EP venture into a diverse array of heavy genres, ranging from 80's psychedelic rock infused with synthesizers, to the raw and gritty styles of grunge and gothic grotesque. They skillfully navigate through rock classics, incorporating powerful vocals and infusing them with blues overtones. With this rich blend of influences, we embark on a journey into the profound depths of the "alternative thought" that Shaven Primates present in their new EP.
https://www.kms.reviews/?p=8446
In a way, you can see this EP as a showcase of what the Shaven Primates is capable of. This boldness, this genre- and regulation-defying attitude, and the intensely dark and gritty behavior of both music and lyrics, everything proves that there’s a truth connected to it all. This truth is that what the band delivers is what they are all about. With their music being a narrative of human emotion and experience, it’s their essence. They use whatever they want, blending it with blood, sweat, and a rocking glow to build an Oddworld and transmit a vibe that can only be found on this EP.
https://neonmusic.co.uk/interview-with-shaven-primates-on-their-new-album-birds-arent-real-a-dark-wave-art-rock-revelation/
The record is an introspective exploration of the world, diving into the concept of “alt thought” – a reflection on the madness spread across the globe through war, propaganda, lies, slander, hate, denial, and conspiracy. Within this framework, they crafted three gripping songs that shed light on these pressing issues. Additionally, the album features two deeply personal tracks, delving into the theme of suicide and the struggles of growing up with a mind that feels out of place in the conventional world of schools.
http://loudnessblog.com/birdsarentreal
"Birds Aren't Real" as an album paints a multifaceted portrait of the world through an eclectic blend of sounds, vocal approaches and song topics. It's a musical labyrinth, where each song is a corridor leading to another dimension of emotion or social commentary. The album is a sonic odyssey that keeps you hooked from start to finish, a fun and moving exploration of human experience in our crazy turbulent times.
https://www.songweb.net/shaven-primates-unleash-a-cathartic-masterpiece-with-birds-arent-real/
Bringing my thoughts to an end, I must add that Shaven Primates’ ability to integrate numerous musical styles into a cohesive whole greatly struck me as a reviewer. The album has aspects of dark wave, art rock, proto-punk, and post-punk, but it never sounds like a mishmash of styles. Their sound is original and readily recognized, and I believe they have a promising future. I also admired their willingness to address tough and contentious issues in their lyrics. The album addresses subjects such as fascism, suicide, autism, and conspiracy theories, yet the band didn’t shy away from them. However, they tackled them with honesty and empathy, and I believe they have done an excellent job of analyzing the complicated feelings that these subjects might elicit. Overall, “Birds Aren’t Real” is an excellent album. It’s thought-provoking, challenging, and emotionally resonant. Fans of dark wave, art rock, and post-punk should check it out.
https://www.musictaste.uk/post/birds-aren-t-real-review
Shaven Primates' EP, "Birds Aren't Real," delves into the captivating world of dark wave rock, infusing it with '80s-inspired elements that create a mesmerizing and immersive musical journey. From the opening track to the final notes, the EP showcases a fusion of intense guitar work, passionate vocals, and dynamic instrumentation that leaves a lasting impact on the listener.
https://yorkcalling.co.uk/2023/07/28/album-review-shaven-primates-birds-arent-real/
I review a lot of music on this blog so it’s always great to come across an album that’s truly unique. Birds Aren’t Real is that. Shaven Primates have taken a fresh approach to rock with it, giving us an impressive range of styles across the album’s five tracks, drawing from a myriad of classic influences. What’s most exciting, however, is the attention to detail and the importance of its lyrical stories. Shaven Primates are definitely up there as one of my new favourite bands. I hope they’ll be one of yours too.
Complete promotional links list:
https://formula-indie.captivate.fm/episode/formula-indie-extra-shaven-primates-birds-arent-real
https://rgm.press/rgm-introducing-we-interview-oxford-artist-shaven-primates/interview/
https://hailtunes.com/arman-jacques-bailhe-jerald-copp-and-shaven-primates/
https://medium.com/@saiidzeidan/birds-arent-real-original-album-by-shaven-primates-811f59e304c2
https://www.edgarallanpoets.com/birds-arent-real-is-shaven-primates-album-out-now/
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/3VPeTj2j9VGgdpyVilKA0I
https://www.wewriteaboutmusic.com/reviews/shaven-primates-birds-arent-real
https://yorkcalling.co.uk/2023/07/28/album-review-shaven-primates-birds-arent-real/
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1LrwIJu2gOqFSmbwUpIweB?si=a57e1cf9d3a14143&nd=1
https://fvmusicblog.com/shaven-primates-birds-arent-real/
http://indiedockmusicblog.co.uk/?p=19273
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2a38WzPCumUIO2Ak753X9n
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/25kZTiihDh98z5U2lxfNTt
https://www.musictaste.uk/post/birds-aren-t-real-review
https://edmrekords.com/news/f/birds-arent-real-original-album
https://www.songweb.net/shaven-primates-unleash-a-cathartic-masterpiece-with-birds-arent-real/
https://www.osgarotosdeliverpool.com.br/2023/07/shaven-primates-lanca-ep-birds-arent.html
https://www.giftedbalancerecords.com/thestudylounge/shaven-primates-birds-arent-real
https://www.artistionline.tv/l/fresh-new-releases88/
http://loudnessblog.com/birdsarentreal
https://alt77.com/shaven-primates-birds-arent-real/
https://www.mixcloud.com/FoundSoundsSubmithubRadioShow/found-sounds-submithub-120/
https://www.freim.tv/shaven-primates-un-torbellino-de-post-punk-progresivo/
https://www.zonaemergente.com/2023/07/shaven-primates-birds-arent-real.html
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2l5dashn1HmGMU7TelPxwX
https://www.obscuresound.com/2023/07/shaven-primates-birds-arent-real-ep/
https://rmas.mx/2023/07/28/birds-arent-real-de-shaven-primates/
https://direct-actu.fr/2023/07/29/shaven-primates-un-ep-explosif/
https://buffablog.com/shaven-primates-birds-arent-real/
https://bsideguys.com/2023/07/12/album-review-shaven-primates-birds-arent-real-ep/
https://www.kms.reviews/?p=8446
https://roadie-music.com/preserve-sua-sanidade-com-o-album-birds-arent-real-de-shaven-primates/
https://plasticmag.co.uk/2023/07/shaven-primates-releases-new-ep/
https://honkmagazine.com/shaven-primates-drop-mind-bending-birds-arent-real-album/
https://www.giventorock.com/2023/07/shaven-primates-birds-arent-real-2023.html
ACHIEVEMENTS
In 2019 we set out to build TAD Studios as a multi-room recording studio to help Tom, our guitarist with his rehearsal space, and Umair, the sound engineer and architect of the whole building. It was very costly both in the financial and emotional sense, but now it is slowly paying off: We recorded all of "Child Of Dirt" (the album) there and on November 26 2021, the 21st anniversary of the night Mark contracted Meningitis, we performed the entirety of the album in that studio over live stream and in person to an audience to celebrate its completion. We were elated by the experience, and to push it out to the rest of the UK we created the "lost/found" child poster which is printed on the front of the cover of the album from its placement in a street in Oxford, as well as 400 copies of it being put up in 8 major cities around the UK (Bristol, Brighton, Birmingham, Cambridge, Leeds, Manchester, Oxford, and London (Holborn/Covent Garden/Soho).
Over the last 3 months, we have pushed out 4 detailed music videos, with another 4 to come in the next 2-3 months, to detail the entire album.
PRESS KIT
