Perhaps the chaos and absurdity of our daily experiences serve as a reminder that life is inherently unpredictable and full of surprises. So let's embrace the unexpected and enjoy the journey, starting with some casual conversation about the things that make us human.
For my weekly pick, I want to tell you about CACTI, the latest release from Billy Nomates, the project of the Bristol-based songwriter, producer and multi-instrumentalist Tor Maries.
While some might describe her style as a blend of post-punk and electronic pop, she personally prefers to call it "no-wave". A minimalist soundtrack featuring twangy, grungy, and grimy basslines, offbeat rhythms and melodies, and a raw, unpolished punk rock style. Where it's the artist's deadpan and caustic lyrics that take center stage, with her ability to restate the absurdities of what we do to ourselves and each other with laser precision and a raised eyebrow.
Tor Maries grew up in Leicester, where her father, a music teacher, instilled in her a love for music. In her 20s, she played in several bands that never seemed to go anywhere, leading her to give up on music and work in marketing for five years. However, a difficult breakup at age 28 plunged her into a depression so deep that she turned back to music as a means of coping. Though she didn't have any grand aspirations, she decided to send her music to Andrew Fearn of Sleaford Mods on a whim. He shared it, and it quickly ended up in the hands of Portishead’s Geoff Barrow, who signed her to his label Invada.
The stage name “Billy Nomates” came from an insult thrown at her by a crowd member who saw that she was attending alone:
“I saw Sleaford Mods were coming to Southampton, so I just got a ticket by myself. I remember being in the crowd watching the warm-up band, Liines, a really good band, and some drunk guy shoved me on the shoulder and shouted: ‘It’s Billy no-mates!’ I’d just started recording at the time and I didn’t have a name. It’s genuinely one of those moments that I’ll never forget. That guy was a fucking genius.” NME
CACTI was released on January 13, 2023, building upon the foundation of her self-titled debut album from 2020. The record showcases a more fully realized sound that embodies a fun and bold personality, while the songwriting demonstrates greater depth and complexity. The songs delve into personal truths, requiring a level of self-reflection and openness that can be challenging. She bravely confronts her own flaws, poor decisions, and the hurt caused by others. There is a recognition in CACTI that our most uncomfortable truths are an essential part of who we are.
It’s a dark and reflective album finished with sarcasm and confidence, where Tor Maries offers a righteous and amusing critique of our time. Through the lyrics, the expression in the chord progressions, and the sincerity and vulnerability in her voice, all contribute to create a deeply touching experience.
And I leave you with "Vertigo"
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