Tim: This is the first I’ve heard of Fear of Tigers, so let’s learn about this electro act together. According to Facebook, it consists of a London-based guy called Benjamin, who has cats called things like Alice von Catkins and Jeffrito de la Macha; Wikipedia tells me that as well as his own tunes he does quite good remixes (example, example); and Twitter tells me he has a new tune out.
Tom: I was not expecting any of that. As soon as that synth melody line hit… wow. I am impressed. I really like this. I think.
Tim: Good, because it’s not your standard 2012 pop tune, what with it sounding like a 1980s instrumental, complete with accompanying ancient-looking video. Of course, the title doesn’t make any sense until said video is watched, and if we’re honest the video doesn’t make any sense whatever you do, but neither of those things means we can’t enjoy listening to it.
Tom: That video is actually clips from the BBC 1980s TV series “Tripods”. I think. Has he CGId himself into some scenes? I’ve no idea – I’ve never seen the original beyond, well, a few clips like that.
Tim: I myself have never even heard of the original, although it would explain the title. Although, not really why they’ve chosen it as a basis for a music video. ANYWAY, it’s hard to judge this objectively, because I’ve got no idea what it’s meant to be. Mainstream? No, because it’s unlikely to get mainstream radio play any time soon. Club music? Possibly, but I can’t see it fitting well into most DJs’ sets.
Tom: Other than at 80s bars. It’s a cracking track, though.
Tim: Oh, absolutely. So is it meant to be enjoyed at home? Probably, because that main hook (that accompanies dramatic moments such as the appearance of the glowing pyramid thing which is presumably what the whole war’s about, or the breakout of fighting after the poor lad’s been crushed by an evil tripod) is absolutely lovely. That, therefore, is what I shall do, and wait until his new album comes out soonish and I can hear more.