Where they are now: Galchen

Of all the acts we've featured on the blog to date (and that's 66 and counting), Galchen are definitely one of my personal favourites.

While their complex, warped post-rock compositions are unlikely to make them the next chart-surfing sensations, it's the kind of music you can listen to on repeat and barely tire of it. Like the best instrumental rock, it just sounds good.

When we profiled them before their set at the Hinterland festival in May, they said they were in the process of writing and recording, but that the daily work grind was getting in the way.

With a headline show at the Tapped clubnight this week (billing: "for those who like their music innovative, forward thinking and vital"), we thought the time was ripe for an update.

Simon (no surname provided - they're a mysterious sort) explains their work pattern: "Writing the album has been and still is the priority for this year. Writing pieces of music tends to be a long process, not having a record label looking over our shoulder means there is no pressure to rush things."

And there is an interesting piece of news to report: "We have also added to our ranks in the past couple of months. Ged, who is a long time friend of the band has come onboard to look after live keyboards, samples and all things electronic. It's exciting to hear and will give us an extra dimension during live shows."

Are the band looking forward to playing live after a short hiatus?

"With regards to the gig itself, it gives us an opportunity to road test new songs - and member!" says Simon. "Plus Gail has been busy creating a new set of visuals which look bloody brilliant as ever. We have fond memories of the venue having played one of our favourite ever gigs at last year's Sauchiehall Crawl."

Words: Nick Mitchell

Galchen play Tapped @ The V Club, Glasgow this Thursday (3 Sep). The night runs from 11pm until 3am with Galchen on stage at 12.30am.

Play: Track Nine