Steerpike – Vernons Future (reviewed by Dave Franklin)

Of course, Vernon’s Future has found its way to this site before in the form of a brace of rather great singles, Aquaplaning and Call To Arms, but this time out, it is also the track title that caught my eye and resonated with me. I know two things about Steerpike. Firstly, he is the antagonist in a trilogy of rather unique gothic fantasy books by the equally unique Mervyn Peake. Secondly, around twenty years ago, I played bass in a band of the same name. (Albeit, spelt with a y.)

Brushing quickly over the second fact, Vernons Future have taken those books and its anti-hero as inspiration for their latest release, a sort of gothic-pop-dance groover that belies the dark and resonant lyrics which follow our titular character as he lurks and lingers around the great castle that acts as the backdrop to the books.

And whereas he does indeed lurk and linger, stalk and swagger around that ancient pile, the song instead grooves and bounces, is woven of psychedelic seductions and skittering percussion, all tethered by sonic shards that have been warped and twisted into strange shapes.

Similarly, the video is far from the dark imagery and shaded otherworldliness that most would choose to reflect such a narrative. Vernons Future instead opt for sun-kissed images and coastal seascapes, bouncing disco denizens and hand dancing.

If opposites do indeed attract, it is borne to by this blend of darkness and disco, intrigue and energy, visual light and sonic shade which makes for a very attractive prospect indeed.